Facing the Challenge by Julia-Gabriela

Facing the Challenge by Julia-Gabriela - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Julia-Gabriela Palacios, and I am currently a junior at Gregory-Portland High School. As a student with a passion for healthcare and medical services, I have always been drawn to advancing myself to prepare me for a future in the medical field. However, one of the most challenging academic experience I faced was during my first semester of my junior year. I took on being enrolled in multiple dual credit classes, in addition to my other classes and extra activities that would help my future.

I have always loved to be challenged, especially when it came to academics. However, I quickly realized that the coursework from all the classes were far more demanding than I had anticipated. The pace was fast, the material was dense, and the expectations were high. It was a whole new level of complexity compared to what I was used to.

In the first few weeks, I struggled to keep up with the lectures and work load. I found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information I needed to understand and memorize. The first test in my dual credit History course was a wake-up call; my grade was below what I had hoped for. It was disheartening, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the class. I knew that if I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, I could not let this setback define my academic journey.

Regardless of the work load and my chaotic life, I wanted to improve my grades in each class. I turned to my teachers, peers, and resources provided to aid my improvement. I asked various questions each class to make sure i the understood concepts being taught.

In addition to seeking help, I realized that I needed to improve my study habits. I began to dedicate specific times each day to review my notes, ensuring that I was consistently reinforcing what I had learned in class. I also started using online resources, such as educational videos and interactive quizzes, to supplement my understanding. These tools allowed me to grasp concepts better and test my knowledge in a more engaging way.

Time management became crucial in balancing my classes with other responsibilities. I created a weekly schedule that prioritized my assignments and study sessions, breaking down larger tasks into manageable parts. This approach helped me stay organized, and reduced the stress of last-minute cramming sessions.

Gradually, my efforts began to pay off. I noticed improvements in my understanding of the material, and my test scores started to rise. The turning point was when I received an A on a particularly challenging exam. It was a moment of validation that showed me that perseverance and hard work could lead to success.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of resilience and adaptability. Challenges are inevitable, but they do not have to be obstacles. Instead, they can be opportunities for growth and learning. I also learned the value of seeking help and collaborating with others. No one has to face difficulties alone, and there is strength in community and support.

This challenging academic experience has reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare. It has taught me that the path to becoming a medical professional will not always be easy, but with determination and the right strategies, I can overcome any hurdle. The skills I developed during this time—problem-solving, time management, and collaboration—will undoubtedly serve me well in my future studies and career.

As I am continuing my education, I am motivated more than ever to achieve my goals and make a positive impact in the field of healthcare. I am grateful for the lessons I learned from this experience and the confidence it has given me to tackle future challenges. I am excited about the journey ahead, and the opportunities to learn and grow as I work towards my dream of helping others through medicine.