Challenges in Nursing by Jessica

Challenges in Nursing by Jessica - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

I have faced many challenges in my academic journey, but one that stands out is my struggle during my first year of college at Galen Health Institutes. As a Nursing major, I knew the coursework would be demanding, but I underestimated just how tough it would be to balance everything. My high school GPA was not very strong, and I knew I had to improve in college to succeed in my chosen field. However, my first semester was a wake-up call.

The transition from high school to college was difficult for me. In high school, I did not develop the best study habits, and I often found myself overwhelmed by the workload. When I started college, I realized that my old ways of studying were not going to cut it. The amount of reading, the complexity of the material, and the expectations from professors were much higher than I was used to. I found myself struggling to keep up with my classes, and my grades reflected that struggle.

One of the biggest challenges was time management. I was not used to having so much freedom and responsibility. In high school, my schedule was more structured, but in college, I had to figure out how to balance classes, study time, and personal life on my own. At first, I did not know how to prioritize my tasks, and I often left assignments until the last minute. This led to a lot of stress and anxiety, which only made it harder to focus on my studies.

I knew I had to make a change if I wanted to succeed. I decided to reach out for help and take advantage of the resources available to me. I started by talking to my professors and academic advisors. They were understanding and offered valuable advice on how to manage my time better and improve my study habits. I also joined study groups with my classmates, which helped me stay accountable and provided a support system. Working with others allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material and learn more effectively.

In addition to seeking help from others, I took it upon myself to develop better study habits. I started using a planner to organize my schedule and set specific goals for each day. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps made them less overwhelming. I also designated specific times for studying and made sure to stick to that schedule as much as possible. This helped me create a routine and reduce procrastination.

Another important change I made was finding a study environment that worked for me. I discovered that I focused better in quiet places, so I began studying in the library or in quiet corners of the campus. I also learned to minimize distractions by turning off my phone or using apps that block social media during study sessions. This allowed me to concentrate on my work and be more productive.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of perseverance and resilience. There were times when I felt discouraged, but I reminded myself why I chose to pursue Nursing in the first place. I have always wanted to help others and make a difference in people's lives, and that goal motivated me to keep pushing forward. I realized that setbacks are a part of the learning process, and each challenge was an opportunity to grow and improve.

By the end of my first year, my efforts paid off. My grades improved, and I felt more confident in my ability to handle the demands of my coursework. I learned that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a step towards success. I also discovered that with the right strategies and mindset, I could overcome obstacles and achieve my goals.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced because they taught me valuable lessons that will serve me well in my future career as a nurse. I have become more disciplined, organized, and resilient, qualities that are essential in the healthcare field. I am proud of how far I have come, and I am excited to continue my journey with the skills and knowledge I have gained.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced during my first year of college was a turning point for me. It forced me to reevaluate my approach to learning and develop better habits that have set me on a path to success. I am determined to keep improving and to make the most of my education so that I can one day provide the best care possible to my patients.