College life by Itati

College life by Itati - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Itati Chiluiza, and I am a sophomore at Prince George's Community College, majoring in Computer Engineering. As a first generation college student, I have faced several challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly difficult. It tested my resilience and determination, and I learned valuable lessons from it.

When I first started college, I was both excited and nervous. I knew that studying Computer Engineering would be demanding, but I was eager to dive into the world of technology. However, I soon realized that balancing my coursework with my personal life was more challenging than I had anticipated. The transition from high school to college was overwhelming, and I struggled to keep up with the fast-paced classes and the increased workload.

One of the most challenging courses I faced was Calculus. Math had always been a subject I enjoyed, but college-level Calculus was a completely different beast. The concepts were complex, and I found myself spending hours trying to understand the material. Despite my efforts, I did not perform well on the first few exams, and my confidence took a hit. My GPA suffered, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in my chosen field.

Feeling discouraged, I knew I had to make a change. I reached out to my professor and explained my struggles. This was not easy, as I felt embarrassed about not doing well. However, my professor was understanding and offered to help me during office hours. I also joined a study group with some of my classmates who were facing similar challenges. Working together, we were able to help each other grasp difficult concepts and motivate one another.

In addition to seeking help from my professor and peers, I realized that I needed to improve my study habits. I started to manage my time more effectively by creating a study schedule that allowed me to dedicate specific hours to Calculus each week. I also made use of online resources and tutorials to reinforce what I learned in class. Slowly but surely, I began to see improvements in my understanding of the material.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of perseverance and asking for help when needed. It was a humbling experience to admit that I was struggling, but it taught me that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. This experience also reinforced my passion for Computer Engineering. Despite the difficulties, I was determined to overcome the challenges and continue pursuing my dream.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. I managed to pass the course, and while my grade was not perfect, I was proud of the progress I had made. More importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects and learned valuable skills that will help me in my future studies.

This experience has shaped me into a more resilient and determined student. It has also motivated me to continue working towards my goal of becoming a computer engineer. I am aware that there will be more challenges along the way, but I am now better equipped to handle them.

Being a Hispanic and gender-fluid student, I am passionate about increasing diversity in the field of technology. I believe that diverse perspectives lead to innovation and creativity, and I am determined to contribute to this change. My academic journey has been challenging, but it has also been rewarding. I am grateful for the support I have received from my professors and peers, and I am committed to paying it forward by helping others who may face similar challenges.

In conclusion, the challenging experience I faced with Calculus taught me the importance of perseverance, seeking help, and effective time management. It was a turning point in my academic journey, and it strengthened my resolve to succeed in Computer Engineering. I am excited to continue my studies at Prince George's Community College and eventually transfer to a four-year university. I am confident that the skills and lessons I have learned will serve me well in the future.

Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest. This scholarship would greatly assist me in achieving my academic and career goals, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story.