My future by Jacques

My future by Jacques - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Jacques Asumani, and I am a junior at Warren Central High School. I am excited about the possibility of attending Kentucky State University to major in Sports Management. As I reflect on my academic journey, I can clearly see how overcoming challenges has shaped me into the person I am today. One academic experience, in particular, stands out as a defining moment in my high school career.

During my sophomore year, I faced a challenging experience in my math class. Math had always been a subject that I found difficult, but I was determined to improve. That year, I was taking Algebra II, and from the beginning, I struggled to keep up with the pace of the class. The concepts were more complex than anything I had encountered before, and I quickly fell behind.

The first few quizzes and tests did not go well, and I started to feel overwhelmed and discouraged. I was worried about how my performance in this class would affect my overall GPA, which was important to me as I looked ahead to college applications. I knew I needed to find a way to overcome this challenge, but I was not sure where to start.

The turning point came when I decided to seek help. I realized that I could not do this alone, and I needed to take advantage of the resources available to me. I began by talking to my math teacher after class. I explained my struggles and asked for advice on how I could improve. My teacher was incredibly supportive and suggested that I attend the after-school tutoring sessions that were offered by the school.

I started attending these tutoring sessions twice a week. At first, I was hesitant and unsure if they would make a difference, but I quickly found that they were incredibly helpful. The smaller group setting allowed me to ask questions and work through problems at my own pace. The tutors, who were older students and volunteers, were patient and explained the concepts in ways that made them easier to understand.

In addition to the tutoring sessions, I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling with the material. We met once a week to review our notes, work on homework assignments, and prepare for upcoming tests. This collaborative approach not only helped me grasp the material better but also provided a sense of camaraderie and support.

I also realized the importance of developing better study habits. I started dedicating a specific time each day to focus on math, breaking down the material into manageable parts. I used online resources, such as instructional videos and practice problems, to reinforce what I was learning in class.

Gradually, I began to see improvement. My quiz and test scores started to rise, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. By the end of the semester, I had not only caught up with the class but had also developed a genuine interest in math. This experience taught me that perseverance, seeking help, and working collaboratively can lead to overcoming challenges.

This challenging academic experience taught me valuable lessons that extend beyond the classroom. I learned the importance of resilience and the power of asking for help when needed. I also discovered that with determination and the right support, I could overcome obstacles that initially seemed insurmountable.

As I look forward to pursuing a degree in Sports Management at Kentucky State University, I am confident that the skills and lessons I have learned will serve me well. I am eager to apply the same determination and willingness to seek support as I tackle new challenges in college and beyond.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming my struggles in Algebra II was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It showed me that challenges are opportunities for growth and that with the right mindset and resources, I can achieve my goals. I am grateful for the experience, as it has prepared me for future challenges and has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams.