Overcoming New Challenges by Heidi

Overcoming New Challenges by Heidi - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a freshman at Grand Canyon University majoring in Education, I have already encountered several academic challenges that have tested my resolve and commitment to my studies. One experience stands out as particularly difficult, but it taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and seeking help when needed.

During my first semester, I enrolled in a foundational course that was crucial for my major. I was excited to dive into the subject matter, but soon realized that the course would be more challenging than I had anticipated. The material was dense, and the pace of the class was faster than anything I had experienced in high school. I found myself struggling to keep up with the readings and assignments.

At first, I tried to tackle the problem on my own. I spent long nights at my desk, poring over textbooks and lecture notes, hoping that sheer determination would be enough to get me through. Despite my efforts, I found myself falling behind and feeling increasingly overwhelmed. My grades on quizzes and assignments were not where I wanted them to be, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the course.

Realizing that I could not continue down this path, I decided to reach out for help. This was a difficult step for me, as I had always been someone who prided herself on being able to handle things independently. However, I understood that asking for help was not a sign of weakness, but rather a necessary step towards improvement.

I started by attending office hours with my professor. This was a turning point for me, as it allowed me to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the material. My professor was supportive and provided additional resources that helped clarify complex concepts.

In addition to seeking help from others, I also had to make changes to my study habits. I realized that my high school study methods were not sufficient for college-level coursework. I began to prioritize my tasks, breaking down large assignments into manageable parts and setting specific goals for each study session. I also started using active learning techniques, such as summarizing information in my own words and teaching concepts to myself, which helped reinforce my understanding.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a significant improvement in my performance. My grades began to rise, and I felt more confident in my ability to grasp the material. By the end of the course, I had not only passed but excelled, achieving a grade that reflected the hard work and dedication I had put in.

This challenging experience taught me several important lessons. First, it reinforced the importance of perseverance. There were times when I felt like giving up, but pushing through those moments made the eventual success all the more rewarding. Second, it highlighted the value of seeking help and collaborating with others. No one has to go through difficult times alone, and reaching out for support can make a significant difference. Lastly, it underscored the need to adapt and be flexible in my approach to learning. What worked in the past may not always be effective, and being open to change is crucial for growth.

As I continue my journey in higher education, I am grateful for the lessons learned from this experience. They have prepared me to face future challenges with resilience and a proactive mindset. I am committed to applying these lessons not only in my academic pursuits but also in my future career as an educator. I hope to inspire my future students to embrace challenges and seek help when needed, just as I have learned to do.

In conclusion, overcoming this academic challenge was a pivotal moment in my college experience. It taught me the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and adaptability. These lessons will stay with me as I continue my studies and work towards my goal of becoming an effective and compassionate educator. I am thankful for the opportunity to share this experience and hope it demonstrates my dedication to learning and personal growth.