I'm not the best but I'm determined by Jesus

I'm not the best but I'm determined by Jesus - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced several academic challenges, but one stands out as particularly significant. It was during my junior year when I struggled with geometry. Math has never been my strongest subject, but geometry was a whole new level of difficulty for me. The concepts felt abstract, and I had a hard time visualizing the shapes and understanding the theorems. My grades started to slip, and I was worried about how this would affect my future plans to study architecture.

The challenge was not just about the numbers and figures; it was also about my confidence. I started to doubt my ability to succeed in math, which made it even harder to focus and improve. I knew that if I wanted to pursue architecture, I needed to overcome this hurdle. Architecture is all about understanding space and structure, and I could not let my struggles with geometry hold me back from my dream.

To tackle this challenge, I realized I needed to change my approach. First, I reached out for help. I started attending school tutoring sessions during lunch, which were incredibly helpful. The one-on-one attention allowed me to ask questions without feeling embarrassed, and the teachers helped me see the problems from different angles. They taught me to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. This approach made a huge difference in my understanding.

Additionally, I joined a study group with a few classmates who were also having trouble but with other classes, but this was later on during my senior year. We met a couple of times a week to go over homework and study for tests together. This not only helped me academically but also provided a sense of camaraderie. We encouraged each other and shared different ways of solving problems. Explaining concepts to others in the group also reinforced my own understanding.

Another important step was learning to manage my time better. I realized that part of my struggle was due to procrastination. I would put off studying because it was difficult and because of personal troubles, which only made things worse.

I utilized online resources, like educational videos. This offered different perspectives and explanations that often clicked for me when the textbook did not. They allowed me to learn at my own pace and revisit concepts as many times as I needed.

As I worked through these strategies, I noticed gradual improvements. My grades in geometry started to rise, and more importantly, my confidence grew. I learned that persistence and seeking help are key to overcoming academic challenges. This experience taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability, qualities that I know will be crucial in my future studies in architecture.

Reflecting on this journey, I am proud of how far I have come. My GPA may not be perfect, but it reflects my growth and determination. I am committed to pursuing a degree in architecture, and I am excited about the future. I know that college will present its own set of challenges, but I am ready to face them with the same determination and resourcefulness.

Being a Hispanic student, I also understand the importance of representation in fields like architecture. I want to contribute to diverse perspectives in design and create spaces that reflect and serve our communities. Overcoming my struggles with geometry has strengthened my resolve to succeed and make a difference.

In conclusion, the challenge of geometry taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, collaboration, and time management. These skills will not only help me in my academic pursuits but also in my future career as an architect. I am grateful for the support I received from my tutors and peers, and I am eager to continue learning and growing. Winning this scholarship would be a tremendous help in achieving my goals, and I am hopeful for the opportunity to further my education at a university like Kansas State, University of Kansas, Texas Tech, or University of Texas-San Antonio. Thank you for considering my application.