My first year in college by Karla

My first year in college by Karla - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My first year at the University of Nevada Las Vegas was an exciting yet challenging time. I was thrilled to start my journey as a nursing major, but I quickly realized that the transition from high school to college came with its own set of challenges. One particular academic experience that stands out was my struggle with Anatomy and Physiology, a core class for my major.

In high school, I had always been a good student. I graduated with a 3.5 GPA, and I felt confident about my academic abilities. However, the pace and depth of college courses were much more demanding than what I was used to. Anatomy and Physiology was notorious for being one of the toughest courses in the nursing program. The sheer amount of information to memorize, coupled with the need to understand complex processes, was overwhelming.

During the first few weeks of the semester, I felt lost. I was not doing as well as I had hoped on quizzes and assignments, and it was discouraging. I realized that my high school study habits were not enough to keep up with the demands of this class. I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor and attended office hours regularly. At first, I was hesitant because I thought it might make me look like I was struggling, but I quickly realized that professors are there to help. My professor was understanding and provided me with guidance on how to tackle the material. She suggested that I form a study group with classmates, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial.

Forming a study group was a game-changer. I connected with a few classmates who were also finding the course challenging. We met twice a week to review lecture notes, quiz each other, and discuss difficult concepts. Explaining the material to others helped reinforce my understanding, and listening to different perspectives gave me new insights. We supported each other, and it made the learning process less intimidating.

Additionally, I had to improve my time management skills. Balancing my coursework, part-time job, and social life was difficult. I started using a planner to organize my schedule and set aside dedicated study times. This helped me stay on track and ensure that I was consistently reviewing the material, rather than cramming before exams.

Another strategy that helped me overcome this challenge was utilizing online resources. I found educational videos and interactive quizzes that complemented my textbook and lectures. These resources provided visual aids and practical examples that made the material more relatable and easier to understand.

Throughout this experience, I learned the importance of perseverance and adaptability. It was not easy, and there were times I felt like giving up, but I reminded myself of my goal of becoming a nurse. I knew that this was just one of many hurdles I would face on my journey, and overcoming it would make me stronger.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. I saw significant improvements in my grades and, more importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects. This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth. It reinforced my belief that with determination, the right support, and effective strategies, I can overcome any obstacle.

As I move forward in my nursing studies, I carry these lessons with me. I am grateful for the experience because it prepared me for future challenges in my academic and professional career. I am committed to continuing to work hard and seek help when needed. I also hope to support others who may be struggling, just as my study group and professor supported me.

In conclusion, my first year at UNLV taught me valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of seeking help. The challenge of Anatomy and Physiology was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It pushed me to adapt and grow, and it ultimately strengthened my resolve to succeed in my nursing career.