My Experience by jermaine

My Experience by jermaine - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

During my freshman and sophomore years of high school, I faced one of the most challenging periods of my academic journey. It was not due to a lack of ability or understanding; rather, it stemmed from a lack of motivation. I was going through a lot in my personal life and felt lost, which affected my performance in school. My grades were not where I wanted them to be, and I often found myself struggling to find a reason to push forward.

This all changed when someone new came into my life. They believed in me and had high expectations for what I could achieve. Seeing my grades disappoint them was a wake-up call for me. Their belief in my potential and their encouragement pushed me to strive for improvement, both academically and socially. They reminded me of the importance of education and the doors it could open for my future, especially with my interest in engineering.

With their support, I began to make changes in my approach to school. I started setting small, achievable goals for myself, which helped me regain my focus and motivation. I also looked for ways to become more engaged in my classes, asking questions and participating more actively. This shift in mindset made a significant difference.

My junior year became one of my best academic years ever. I worked hard to improve my grades and took advantage of the resources available to me, such as tutoring and study groups. I also got involved in extracurricular activities that aligned with my interests, which helped me build a supportive network of friends and mentors.

This experience taught me the value of perseverance and the impact that a supportive figure can have on one's life. It showed me that no matter how challenging things may seem, there is always a way to overcome obstacles if you have the right mindset and support.

As I prepare for college and consider schools like Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia, I am grateful for this turning point in my life. It has equipped me with the resilience and determination needed to pursue a degree in engineering. I am excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead, knowing that I have the tools to succeed, thanks to the lessons I learned during this challenging time.