My Journey by Justin

My Journey by Justin - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been filled with various challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly formative. During my sophomore year at Los Angeles City College, I took a course in financial accounting as part of my Business Administration major. I had always been interested in understanding the financial workings of businesses, and I knew that accounting was a fundamental skill I needed to master. However, I soon realized that the class was more challenging than I anticipated, and it tested my perseverance and problem-solving skills in ways I had never experienced before.

The course started off with basic principles, but it quickly advanced to complex concepts and detailed financial statements. I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the lectures and the intricacies of the subject matter. The professor moved swiftly through each topic, and I often left class feeling overwhelmed and anxious about my ability to grasp the material. The first midterm exam was a wake-up call for me; I received a grade that was significantly lower than what I had hoped for. It was disheartening, and I began to doubt my capabilities.

Despite my initial discouragement, I realized that I needed to take a proactive approach to overcome this challenge. I started by reassessing my study habits and seeking out resources that could help me better understand the material. I knew that I could not tackle this alone, so I reached out to my classmates to form a study group. This turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. Collaborating with others allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material, and discussing the concepts with peers helped solidify my understanding.

In addition to the study group, I took advantage of the tutoring services offered on campus. I met with a tutor who specialized in accounting, and she helped break down the complex topics into more manageable parts. She also provided me with additional practice problems, which were crucial in helping me apply the concepts I was learning. The one-on-one sessions were incredibly beneficial, as they allowed me to ask questions and receive immediate feedback on areas where I was struggling.

I also made a conscious effort to attend every office hour session held by my professor. Initially, I was hesitant to approach him, fearing that my questions might seem trivial. However, I soon realized that he was more than willing to help students who showed genuine interest and effort. During these sessions, I asked for clarification on topics I found confusing and sought advice on how to improve my performance in the class. My professor provided valuable insights and encouraged me to keep practicing, emphasizing that understanding accounting was a gradual process.

Throughout this experience, I learned the importance of perseverance and the value of seeking help when needed. I also discovered that challenges are opportunities for growth and that it is essential to maintain a positive attitude, even when things seem daunting. By the time the final exam approached, I felt more prepared and confident in my abilities. I had developed a deeper understanding of the material, and my hard work paid off when I received a much-improved grade.

This challenging academic experience taught me several important lessons that extend beyond the classroom. It reinforced the idea that success is not solely determined by innate ability, but also by the willingness to put in the effort and seek out resources. I learned that collaboration and open communication are key components of overcoming obstacles, and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

As I continue my studies in Business Administration, I carry these lessons with me. I am now better equipped to tackle future challenges, knowing that I have the tools and resilience to overcome them. This experience has also strengthened my passion for business and finance, as I have seen firsthand the rewards of perseverance and dedication. I am grateful for the opportunity to have faced this challenge, as it has shaped me into a more determined and resourceful student.

In conclusion, the difficulties I faced in my financial accounting class were a pivotal moment in my academic journey. Overcoming this challenge required a combination of hard work, collaboration, and a willingness to seek out support. It was a humbling experience that taught me valuable skills and lessons that will undoubtedly benefit me in my future endeavors. I am proud of the progress I made and look forward to applying these lessons as I continue to pursue my academic and career goals.