Triumph by Jordyn

Triumph by Jordyn - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through undergraduate school was marked by many challenges, but one stands out as particularly transformative. As a first-year student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, majoring in Kinesiology, I encountered an academic challenge that tested my resilience and determination in ways I had never anticipated.

The challenge began during my first semester when I enrolled in a course on Human Anatomy. The course was known to be hard, with the volume of work tripling that of other classes. It was challenging being faced with countless muscles, bones, and systems to memorize and understand in depth. I felt lost from the very beginning, and despite my best efforts, I struggled to keep up with the pace of the class. I wasn’t too sure I would be able to pass the class, and I worried about maintaining my GPA.

The situation worsened when I received my first exam grade and began traveling for soccer. It was lower than I had hoped, my lowest exam grade to date. The time to study seemed impossible on the road. Frustrated, I knew I needed to change my approach, but I was unsure where to start. I realized I could not tackle this challenge alone, so I decided to reach out for help.

First, I emailed my professor asking for any advice he could give me about studying and how to make it stick. During our conversation, he was incredibly supportive and offered valuable advice on study strategies and resources I had not considered. He encouraged me to focus on understanding the concepts rather than try to memorize all of the information.

Next, I formed a study group with classmates and teammates who were also finding the course challenging. We met regularly to review material, quiz each other, and share different perspectives on the content. It was nice that some girls on my soccer team were in the same class as me and lived right by me. This collaborative environment was immensely helpful, as it allowed me to see the material from new angles and reinforced my learning through teaching others.

Outside of these academic resources, I focused on improving my study habits and time management. I created a detailed schedule that allocated specific times for studying, attending review sessions, and taking breaks to prevent burnout. I also began incorporating physical activity into my routine, which helped reduce stress and improve my concentration. When feeling stressed or tired, I would go for a quick 30 minute walk to clear my mind and wake myself up. As a kinesiology student, I understood the importance of movement and its positive effects on mental health, and I applied this knowledge to my own life.

Through these efforts, I gradually began to see improvement. My grades in subsequent exams reflected my hard work and the effectiveness of the strategies I had adopted. More importantly, I regained my confidence and developed a deeper understanding of the subject matter. The experience taught me the value of seeking help, the power of collaboration, and the importance of adapting my learning strategies to meet the demands of challenging courses.

This academic challenge was not just about overcoming a difficult class; it was about personal growth and developing resilience. It reinforced my passion for physical therapy and my commitment to helping others through this field. As a Hispanic woman in a demanding program, I am proud of the perseverance I demonstrated and the skills I gained. These experiences have prepared me for future challenges in my academic and professional journey.

Facing and overcoming the challenge of Human Anatomy was a pivotal moment in my education. It taught me the importance of seeking support, changing my strategies, and maintaining a balance between academics and self-care. I am grateful for the lessons learned and the opportunity to grow both personally and academically. As I continue my studies as a physician assistant, I carry these experiences with me, confident in my ability to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead.