My future by Kamari

My future by Kamari - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a freshman at Jackson State University, majoring in Journalism, I have already faced a few academic challenges. One of the most significant hurdles was adjusting to the demands of college-level coursework after high school. In high school, I had a GPA of 2.7, and I knew that I needed to step up my game to succeed in college. The transition was not easy, and it tested my resilience and determination.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was with my English Composition class. Writing has always been something I enjoyed, but the expectations in college were much higher than what I was used to. In high school, I could get by with minimal effort, but college required a deeper level of critical thinking and analysis. The first few assignments were a wake-up call. I received lower grades than I expected, and it was frustrating because I knew I could do better.

The turning point came when I received feedback on a paper that I thought I had done well on. My professor pointed out areas where my arguments were weak and where I had not supported my points with enough evidence. It was clear that I needed to improve my writing skills if I wanted to succeed not just in this class, but in my major as a whole.

To overcome this challenge, I decided to take advantage of the resources available to me. I started by visiting the campus writing center. At first, I was hesitant because I felt embarrassed about needing help, but I soon realized that many students were in the same boat. The tutors there were incredibly supportive and helped me understand how to structure my essays better and how to develop stronger arguments.

In addition to the writing center, I also began to meet with my professor during office hours. This was another step outside my comfort zone, but it was invaluable. My professor provided me with personalized feedback and helped me understand the expectations for college-level writing. These sessions not only improved my essays but also boosted my confidence.

Another strategy I employed was forming a study group with some classmates. We would meet regularly to discuss our assignments and share feedback on each other's work. This collaborative environment helped me see different perspectives and approaches to writing. It also made me realize that I was not alone in facing these challenges, and together we could support each other in improving our skills.

Through these efforts, my writing gradually improved. I started to receive better grades on my assignments, which was a huge morale boost. More importantly, I began to enjoy the process of writing and researching. I learned how to approach topics critically and how to articulate my thoughts more clearly. This experience taught me the value of perseverance and seeking help when needed, rather than trying to tackle everything on my own.

This challenging academic experience was not just about improving my grades; it was about developing skills that are essential for my future career in journalism. I realized that being a good journalist is not just about writing well, but also about being able to analyze information critically and present it in a compelling way. The skills I have gained through this experience will undoubtedly serve me well in my future endeavors.

In conclusion, facing the challenge of college-level writing was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me that it is okay to struggle and that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. By utilizing the resources available to me and collaborating with others, I was able to overcome this challenge and grow as a student and as a writer. This experience has prepared me for future challenges and has reaffirmed my passion for journalism. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and am excited to continue my journey at Jackson State University, knowing that I have the tools and determination to succeed.