My name is Kamila Sotelo, and I am a high school senior with big dreams of attending the University of Arizona to pursue a degree in Business. As a Hispanic woman, I am proud of my heritage and eager to contribute to the world of business with my unique p by Kamila

My name is Kamila Sotelo, and I am a high school senior with big dreams of attending the University of Arizona to pursue a degree in Business. As a Hispanic woman, I am proud of my heritage and eager to contribute to the world of business with my unique p by Kamila - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Kamila Sotelo, and I am a high school senior with big dreams of attending the University of Arizona to pursue a degree in Business. As a Hispanic woman, I am proud of my heritage and eager to contribute to the world of business with my unique perspective. However, the journey to this point has not been without its challenges. One academic experience, in particular, tested my resilience and determination, ultimately shaping me into a stronger student and individual.

During my junior year of high school, I faced a particularly tough challenge in my Algebra II class. Mathematics had never been my strongest subject, but I always managed to get by with hard work and extra help. However, this class was different. The concepts were more complex, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the lessons. My grades started slipping, and I could feel my confidence waning with each passing test.

This experience was incredibly frustrating. I had always prided myself on being a dedicated student, and I felt like I was letting myself down. To make matters worse, I knew that maintaining a strong GPA was crucial for my college applications, especially since I aspired to study business, where quantitative skills are essential. I realized that I needed to find a way to overcome this challenge, not only for the sake of my grades but also to prove to myself that I could tackle difficult situations head-on.

The first step I took was to seek help. I approached my teacher after class and explained my struggles. She was understanding and offered to meet with me for extra tutoring sessions. These sessions were incredibly helpful, as they allowed me to ask questions in a one-on-one setting and work through problems at my own pace. I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were facing similar challenges. Together, we would meet after school to review lessons, share notes, and solve practice problems. This collaborative environment made learning more enjoyable and less intimidating.

In addition to seeking help from others, I knew I had to change my study habits. I started dedicating more time to reviewing my notes every day, rather than cramming the night before a test. I also discovered online resources, such as video tutorials and practice quizzes, which provided different explanations and perspectives on the material. These tools were invaluable in helping me grasp the concepts that I found most challenging.

As I put in the effort to improve, I began to see progress. My grades slowly started to rise, and I felt more confident tackling new topics. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and the value of asking for help when needed. It also reinforced my belief that challenges are opportunities for growth. By facing my difficulties in Algebra II head-on, I not only improved my mathematical skills but also gained a deeper understanding of my own capabilities.

Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the lessons it taught me. It showed me that I am capable of overcoming obstacles, even when they seem insurmountable. This realization has been empowering and has fueled my desire to pursue a degree in business. I am excited about the prospect of attending the University of Arizona, where I can continue to develop my skills and knowledge in a supportive and dynamic environment.

In conclusion, the challenges I faced in my Algebra II class were a pivotal moment in my academic journey. They pushed me to seek help, work collaboratively, and adopt new study strategies. These experiences have prepared me for the rigors of college and have strengthened my resolve to succeed in the field of business. I am eager to bring my determination, resilience, and diverse perspective to the University of Arizona, where I hope to make a meaningful impact both academically and within the community.