It’s a Different Ball Game by Jada

It’s a Different Ball Game by Jada - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My first semester at Morgan State University was a whirlwind, filled with excitement and new experiences, but it also brought me face-to-face with one of the toughest academic challenges I have ever encountered. As a college freshman and a nursing major, I knew that my journey would be demanding, but I was not prepared for just how overwhelming it would be, especially in my first biology class. It was not just the complexity of the subject that was daunting, but the entire transition from high school to college-level expectations felt like a mountain I was unsure I could climb.

In high school, I worked hard to maintain a 3.6 GPA, but stepping into college, everything seemed different. The lectures were intense, the textbooks seemed to speak a language I could barely understand, and suddenly, the responsibility to navigate all this was solely on my shoulders. Within the first few weeks, I felt buried under a mountain of information that I needed to not just memorize, but truly understand.

Then came the first exam, and it was a harsh wake-up call. Despite trying my best, my performance was nowhere near what I had hoped for. It was a blow to my confidence, leaving me questioning whether I could really make it in the nursing program. But deep down, I knew I had to find a way to overcome this. I needed help, and I had to be brave enough to ask for it.

I started by reaching out to my professor during office hours. It was not easy for me to admit I was struggling, but I had to push past my fears. My professor was kind and understanding, offering me advice that changed everything. She told me to focus on understanding the core concepts instead of trying to memorize every detail. Her support made me realize that asking for help was not a sign of weakness, but a step towards success.

Determined to improve, I joined a study group with classmates who were also struggling. We met regularly to go over notes and help each other with difficult topics. This group became a lifeline, showing me that I was not alone in this struggle. Together, we found strength in numbers, and it made a world of difference.

I also turned to online resources, like educational videos and quizzes, which helped me learn in a way that suited me better. Seeing things visually and having interactive content made the complex material more digestible. Slowly, I began to understand the topics that once seemed impossible.

Time management was another hurdle I had to overcome. I started using a planner to organize my days, setting specific times for studying and breaks. This structure helped me stay focused and avoid the last-minute panic that had plagued me before.

All these efforts started to pay off. By the time the second exam rolled around, I felt more prepared and confident. My grades improved, and with them, my belief in myself. This experience taught me so much about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of reaching out when things get tough.

As a Black woman aspiring to be a nurse, I know I will face many challenges in my field. But this experience has shown me that I can overcome obstacles with determination and the right support. It has strengthened my resolve to become a compassionate nurse who can make a difference in the lives of others.

This journey has not been easy, but it has fueled my passion for nursing even more. I am committed to pushing through, no matter how hard it gets, because I believe in the impact I can make. The road ahead will have its challenges, but I am ready to face them with everything I have learned.

In closing, my first semester at Morgan State University tested me in ways I never expected. By seeking help, working with my peers, using every resource available, and managing my time wisely, I overcame a significant academic hurdle. This experience has prepared me for the challenges of my nursing program and has given me a newfound confidence and purpose. I am grateful for the lessons learned and eager to continue growing, both academically and personally, on this journey.