Challenges by Jordan

Challenges by Jordan - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Jordan Claiborne, and I am a high school senior with a deep passion for game design. As I prepare to take the next step in my academic journey, I am excited about the possibility of attending Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University, the University of Georgia, or the University of West Georgia. My goal is to major in game design and turn my love for video games into a fulfilling career. However, my path has not been without its challenges.

One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my junior year in high school, when I took an advanced mathematics course. Math has always been a subject I enjoyed, but this particular course pushed me beyond what I was used to. The class was known for its rigorous curriculum and demanding workload, and I quickly found myself struggling to keep up.

The first few weeks were overwhelming. I was used to understanding concepts quickly, but this time, I felt like I was constantly playing catch-up. The pace was fast, and the content was complex. I remember one particular unit on calculus that seemed like an insurmountable wall. No matter how much I studied, the concepts just did not click for me. My confidence took a hit, and I started to doubt my abilities.

I realized I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. The first step was reaching out for help. I was hesitant at first, but I knew I could not do it alone. I started attending after-school tutoring sessions offered by my teacher. These sessions were incredibly helpful because they allowed me to ask questions in a smaller setting and get the one-on-one support I needed. My teacher was patient and took the time to explain concepts in different ways until I understood them.

In addition to tutoring, I formed a study group with a few classmates. We met regularly to review material, work through problems together, and support each other. This collaboration was a game-changer for me. Not only did it provide a sense of camaraderie, but discussing the material with peers helped reinforce my understanding. We each brought different strengths to the group, and by teaching each other, we all improved.

I also had to adjust my study habits. I started dedicating specific blocks of time each day to focus solely on math. I used online resources, such as educational videos and practice problems, to supplement what I learned in class. These resources allowed me to learn at my own pace and revisit topics as needed. I learned the importance of persistence and the value of approaching problems from multiple angles.

Despite the initial struggle, my hard work began to pay off. Gradually, the concepts started to make sense. I remember the moment when I finally solved a complex calculus problem on my own—it felt like a huge victory. My grades improved, and more importantly, I regained my confidence. By the end of the semester, I had not only caught up but excelled in the class.

This experience taught me several valuable lessons. I learned the importance of asking for help and the power of collaboration. I realized that struggling with a subject does not mean you are not capable; it just means you need to find the right strategies and resources. I also discovered that perseverance and hard work can overcome even the toughest challenges.

As I look forward to studying game design in college, I know that these lessons will serve me well. Game design is a field that requires creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration—all skills I have honed through my academic challenges. I am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow in this field, and I am confident that I can tackle any obstacles that come my way.

In conclusion, facing a challenging academic experience taught me resilience and adaptability. It showed me that with determination and support, I can overcome difficulties and achieve my goals. I am grateful for the lessons I learned and the growth I experienced, and I am eager to apply them as I pursue my passion for game design in college.