Scholarship by Iona

Scholarship by Iona - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Iona Woofter, and I am a high school senior interested in a career in teaching and education. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA has been a source of pride, but junior year brought a challenge when I took AP Calculus. Math had always been a strength, but this course was different. The fast pace and complex concepts were overwhelming, and my initial test scores did not reflect my efforts. It was a humbling experience.

Determined to overcome this, I sought extra help from my teacher and joined a study group with classmates. Working together allowed us to share strategies and realize we were not alone. I also spent extra time using online resources to reinforce my understanding.

A key lesson was adopting a growth mindset. Instead of seeing struggles as failures, I viewed them as opportunities to improve. This change in perspective reduced my anxiety and renewed my determination. Gradually, my test scores improved, and by the end of the year, I passed the AP Calculus exam, gaining a deeper appreciation for the subject.

This experience solidified my passion for education and my goal to become a teacher. I realized that many students face similar challenges, and I want to use my experiences to support them. Overcoming AP Calculus hurdles has prepared me for college challenges. I am excited to study education at Pennsylvania Western University and hope to inspire students as my teachers have inspired me.

In summary, AP Calculus taught me perseverance, collaboration, and a growth mindset. These lessons give me hope and purpose, and I am eager to continue my education journey, ready to positively impact future students.