The beginning of a college journey by karla

The beginning of a college journey by karla - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Karla Ramirez, and as a first-generation college student at St. Edward's University, I have already faced my fair share of academic challenges. One of the most significant challenges I encountered was during my first semester while taking a math for business course. This class was crucial for me as a finance major, but it also proved to be one of the most difficult experiences I have had in my academic journey so far.

Coming into college, I knew I was stepping into a whole new world of learning. In high school, I maintained a solid GPA of 3.6, but I quickly realized that college-level courses demanded a different level of understanding and dedication. The finance course was particularly challenging because it was filled with complex concepts and a lot of new terminology that I had never encountered before. It felt like learning a new language, and I struggled to keep up with the pace of the lectures and the volume of the assignments.

At first, I felt overwhelmed and unsure of how to tackle the material. The pressure of wanting to do well in my major, along with the fear of falling behind, was daunting. I knew I needed to find a way to overcome these challenges, not just for the course, but for my entire college career.

The first step I took was to adjust my study habits. In high school, I could often get by with last-minute study sessions, but I quickly learned that this approach would not work in college, especially not for finance. I started by setting a regular study schedule, dedicating specific hours each day to review my notes and work on practice problems. This consistency helped me gradually build a stronger understanding of the material.

Additionally, I sought out resources beyond the classroom to aid my learning. I began attending tutoring sessions offered by the university, where I could ask questions and get explanations in a more personalized setting. The tutors were incredibly helpful, breaking down complex topics into more manageable parts and offering tips on how to approach different types of problems.

Another crucial step was forming a study group with a few classmates. Working with peers allowed us to share insights and explain concepts to each other, which reinforced our understanding. It was comforting to know that I was not alone in my struggles, and together, we were able to tackle the challenges of the course more effectively.

Moreover, I made it a point to attend my professor's office hours regularly. At first, I was hesitant, worried that my questions might seem trivial. However, I soon realized that my professor was more than willing to help and appreciated my efforts to engage with the material. These sessions provided me with clarity on topics I found confusing and gave me confidence in my ability to grasp difficult concepts.

Throughout this experience, I learned the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness. It was not easy, and there were times when I doubted myself, but I kept pushing forward. I reminded myself of the reasons why I chose to study finance and the goals I wanted to achieve. This motivation drove me to work harder and smarter.

By the end of the semester, my efforts paid off. I managed to improve my grades significantly and developed a much deeper understanding of finance. More importantly, I gained valuable skills that will serve me throughout my academic and professional life. I learned how to manage my time effectively, seek help when needed, and approach challenges with a positive mindset.

This challenging academic experience taught me that obstacles are not roadblocks but opportunities to grow and learn. It reinforced my belief in the power of determination and the importance of utilizing available resources. As I continue my journey at St. Edward's University, I am more prepared to face future challenges with confidence and resilience.

In conclusion, overcoming the difficulties of my finance course was a pivotal moment in my college experience. It showed me that with hard work, support, and the right strategies, I could overcome academic challenges and succeed in my chosen field. This experience has not only strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in finance but has also equipped me with the tools to handle any hurdles that come my way. I am grateful for the lessons learned and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.