Academic Adversity by Jeyda

Academic Adversity by Jeyda - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a high school senior preparing to major in Marketing, I have faced my share of academic challenges. One experience that stands out is the struggle I had with my dual enrollment english class during my junior year. This class was particularly tough for me, not just because of the complex material, but also because it was the first time I had taken a college course. The pressure was on, and I knew I needed to do well to maintain my GPA and strengthen my college applications.

At the beginning of the year, I was excited about the opportunity to challenge myself. I had always been interested in understanding how data drives decision-making, which is crucial in marketing. However, as the weeks went by, I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the class. The concepts were abstract, and I had difficulty applying them to solve problems. My grades on the first few quizzes were lower than I had hoped, and I started to doubt my ability to succeed in the class.

This experience was challenging not only academically but also emotionally. I am a Black woman, and sometimes I felt like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. The pressure I put on myself to excel was immense, and it was disheartening to feel like I was falling short.

I realized I needed to change my approach if I wanted to improve. The first step I took was seeking help from my professor. I scheduled a meeting with her to discuss my struggles and ask for advice. She was incredibly supportive and suggested that I attend extra help sessions after school. She also recommended forming a study group with classmates, which turned out to be a game-changer for me.

Joining a study group helped me in several ways. I was able to learn from my peers and gain different perspectives on the material. We would meet twice a week to review our notes, work through practice problems, and quiz each other on key concepts. This collaborative environment made learning more engaging and less intimidating. I discovered that many of my classmates were also struggling, which made me feel less isolated in my difficulties.

Additionally, I started using online resources to supplement my learning. There are numerous educational websites and videos that explained writing in a more digestible way. By watching these videos, I could pause and replay parts I did not understand, which helped reinforce my learning. I also found practice problems online that allowed me to test my understanding and build confidence in my skills.

Another strategy that helped me overcome this challenge was improving my time management skills. I realized that part of my struggle was due to poor organization and procrastination. I began using a planner to keep track of assignments, test dates, and study sessions. By breaking down my workload into manageable chunks and setting specific goals for each study session, I was able to stay on top of the material and reduce my stress levels.

Through persistence and hard work, I gradually improved my performance in dual enrollment course. My quiz and test scores began to rise, and by the end of the year, I was proud of the progress I had made. Although I did not earn an 'A' in the class, I achieved a solid 'B,' which was a significant accomplishment given where I started.

This experience taught me valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. It reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and the benefits of diverse perspectives. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well in college, especially as I pursue a degree in Marketing—a field that thrives on creativity, teamwork, and data-driven decision-making.

Overcoming this academic challenge has also strengthened my confidence and determination. I now know that I am capable of tackling difficult subjects and that setbacks are opportunities for growth. As I look forward to college and beyond, I am excited to apply these lessons to new challenges and continue developing my skills.

In conclusion, my experience with dual enrollment was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It challenged me in ways I had not anticipated, but it also provided me with the tools and mindset needed to succeed in the future. I am grateful for the support of my teacher and classmates, and I am proud of how I persevered through this challenge. This experience has prepared me for the rigors of college and has motivated me to pursue my passion for marketing with confidence and enthusiasm.