Challenges as a First-Gen Latino by Jairo

Challenges as a First-Gen Latino by Jairo - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Jairo Loaiza Lima, and I am a high school junior at Bard Early College High School. I am interested in pursuing healthcare-related majors at universities like Penn State, Case Western Reserve University, or the University of Pittsburgh. However, my journey has not always been smooth, and I have faced academic challenges along the way.

One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my sophomore year. I had been struggling with maintaining a good GPA, and it was starting to take a toll on my confidence. My GPA was a 2.5, and I knew that if I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare, I needed to improve my academic performance. The pressure was mounting, and I felt overwhelmed.

The main challenge was balancing my schoolwork with my responsibilities at home. As a Hispanic student, I often had to help my family with various tasks, which left me with little time to focus on my studies. I was determined to overcome this challenge, but I did not know where to start.

The first step I took was to seek help from my teachers and counselors. I realized that I could not do it alone, and I needed guidance. I approached my teachers and explained my situation. They were understanding and offered me extra help after school. My counselors also provided me with resources and strategies to manage my time better.

With their support, I started to create a study schedule that allowed me to allocate specific times for each subject. I also learned to prioritize tasks and focus on the most important assignments first. This helped me manage my time more effectively and reduced the stress I was feeling.

Another strategy that helped me overcome this academic challenge was forming study groups with my classmates. I found that studying with others made the process more enjoyable and allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material. We would quiz each other, share notes, and explain concepts to one another. This collaborative approach made a significant difference in my understanding of the subjects.

Additionally, I began to take advantage of online resources and educational platforms. I discovered that there were many free tools available that could help me improve my understanding of complex topics. I used online videos, tutorials, and practice quizzes to reinforce what I had learned in class. This extra practice helped me gain confidence in my abilities and improved my performance on tests and assignments.

Throughout this process, I also learned the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy balance between school and personal life. I realized that taking breaks and allowing myself time to relax was crucial for my mental well-being. I started to incorporate short breaks into my study sessions and made sure to get enough sleep each night. This helped me stay focused and energized throughout the day.

By the end of my sophomore year, I saw a noticeable improvement in my grades. My GPA started to rise, and I felt more confident in my academic abilities. This experience taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, time management, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

Looking back, I am grateful for the support I received from my teachers, counselors, and classmates. Their encouragement and guidance played a significant role in helping me overcome this challenge. I am now more determined than ever to pursue a career in healthcare and make a positive impact in my community.

This experience has also strengthened my resolve to give back and support others who may be facing similar challenges. I hope to inspire other students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to pursue their dreams and not be discouraged by obstacles they may encounter along the way.

In conclusion, overcoming this academic challenge has been a pivotal moment in my educational journey. It has taught me the value of resilience, collaboration, and self-care. I am now more prepared to tackle future challenges and am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.