My Challenge by Jonathan

My Challenge by Jonathan - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

I first stepped onto the campus of Glenville State College as a freshman, I was filled with excitement and a bit of nervousness. I had always been passionate about animals and knew that pursuing a major related to them was the right path for me. However, my transition from high school to college was not as smooth as I had hoped. I faced several academic challenges that tested my resolve and forced me to grow in ways I had not anticipated. In high school, I maintained a solid GPA of 3.66, which gave me confidence in my academic abilities. I was used to balancing my studies with various extracurricular activities and felt prepared for college-level work. However, once I started my classes at Glenville State, I quickly realized that college was a different ballgame. The workload was heavier, the expectations were higher, and the material was more complex than anything I had encountered before. One of the biggest challenges I faced was adjusting to the rigorous demands of my animal-related courses. The sheer volume of information, coupled with the need to understand intricate biological processes, was overwhelming. I found myself struggling to keep up with lectures, readings, and assignments. My confidence took a hit when I received my first set of grades, which were lower than I had anticipated. My college GPA of 2.9 was a wake-up call that something needed to change. I knew I had to find a way to overcome these academic hurdles and improve my performance. The first step I took was to reach out for help. I realized that I could not tackle these challenges alone, so I began attending tutoring sessions offered by the college. The tutors were incredibly helpful, breaking down complex concepts into manageable pieces and providing me with strategies to better understand the material. I also started forming study groups with my classmates, which allowed us to share knowledge and support each other through our struggles. Time management was another area where I needed improvement. In high school, I could get away with last-minute cramming, but that approach was not working in college. I began using a planner to organize my schedule, setting aside specific times for studying, attending classes, and relaxing. This structure helped me stay on top of my assignments and reduced the stress of trying to do everything at once. Additionally, I discovered the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between academics and self-care. It was easy to get caught up in the pressure of college life and neglect my well-being. I started incorporating regular exercise and mindfulness practices into my routine, which improved my focus and overall mood. Taking breaks to recharge became a crucial part of my study habits, allowing me to return to my work with renewed energy and clarity. Another key factor in overcoming my academic challenges was staying connected with my professors. I made it a point to attend office hours and actively participate in class discussions. Building a rapport with my instructors not only helped me gain a deeper understanding of the material but also showed them that I was committed to improving my performance. Their guidance and encouragement played a significant role in boosting my confidence and motivation. Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the challenges I faced during my first year of college. They pushed me to develop skills that will serve me well throughout my academic journey and beyond. I learned the importance of seeking help, managing my time effectively, and taking care of myself amidst the demands of college life. These lessons have not only helped me improve my grades but have also shaped me into a more resilient and determined student. While my academic journey is still ongoing, I am proud of the progress I have made so far. I am committed to continuing my studies in the animal-related field, driven by my passion and the desire to make a positive impact in the world. The challenges I have faced have taught me that perseverance and adaptability are key to overcoming obstacles, and I am confident that I can handle whatever comes my way in the future. In conclusion, my first year at Glenville State College was filled with unexpected academic challenges that tested my abilities and resilience. Through seeking help, improving my time management, and taking care of my well-being, I was able to overcome these obstacles and grow as a student. I am determined to keep building on these experiences and continue striving for success in my academic and personal pursuits.