Academic balance by James

Academic balance by James - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a freshman at Baldwin Wallace University, I have faced a number of academic challenges, but one experience that stands out is my struggle with balancing the demands of my trumpet performance major with the rigorous academic expectations of college life. Coming into college, I was thrilled to immerse myself in the world of music, eager to learn and grow in a field I am passionate about. However, I quickly realized that managing my time effectively while maintaining a solid academic standing would be more challenging than I anticipated.

Being a trumpet performance major is demanding, requiring a significant amount of time for practice, ensemble rehearsals, performances, and coursework. In addition to classes, there are countless hours spent in the practice rooms, often late into the night, honing my skills and preparing for upcoming recitals and concerts. I found myself overwhelmed, trying to juggle practice sessions, music theory assignments, and other class responsibilities. It was not long before my GPA began to reflect the struggle I was facing, dipping to a 2.8, which was lower than I had hoped for.

The turning point came during my first semester, when I realized that my passion for music was being overshadowed by stress and anxiety. I knew I needed to make a change if I wanted to succeed both academically and in my performances. The first step was acknowledging that I needed help and seeking out resources that could assist me in better managing my time and responsibilities.

I reached out to my academic advisor, who was incredibly supportive and helped me develop a plan to get back on track. Together, we created a schedule that prioritized my commitments and allowed me to allocate dedicated time for studying and completing assignments. My advisor also encouraged me to connect with other students in my major who were facing similar challenges. Forming study groups and sharing strategies with my peers proved invaluable, as it not only provided academic support but also created a sense of community and camaraderie.

In addition to seeking academic support, I realized the importance of self-care in maintaining a balanced life. I began incorporating regular breaks into my practice sessions and made a conscious effort to engage in activities that helped me relax and recharge, such as going for walks or practicing mindfulness exercises. Taking care of my mental and physical health became a priority, and it made a noticeable difference in my ability to focus and perform well both in class and on stage.

One of the most significant lessons I learned from this experience was the importance of communication. I made it a point to regularly check in with my professors, keeping them informed about my progress and any challenges I was facing. This open line of communication not only helped me stay accountable but also allowed my professors to provide guidance and support when needed.

Over time, I started to see improvements in my academic performance. My grades began to rise, and I felt more confident in my ability to manage my time effectively. The experience taught me the value of resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. It also reinforced my passion for music, reminding me why I chose this path in the first place.

While my GPA may not yet reflect the level of success I aspire to achieve, I am proud of the progress I have made and the lessons I have learned along the way. This challenging academic experience has strengthened my resolve to continue pursuing my dreams in trumpet performance, and I am committed to further improving my academic standing.

In conclusion, the challenges I faced during my first year of college have been instrumental in shaping my approach to both academics and life. They have taught me the importance of time management, self-care, and seeking support from those around me. As I continue my journey at Baldwin Wallace University, I am confident that these lessons will serve me well, not only in my studies but also in my future career in music. I am grateful for the opportunity to grow and learn from these experiences, and I am excited to see where this path will lead me.