High School Journey by Karly

High School Journey by Karly - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced several academic challenges, but one experience stands out as particularly difficult yet transformative. This experience not only tested my perseverance but also taught me valuable lessons about seeking help and pushing through obstacles.

During my sophomore year at Maquoketa Valley Senior High School, I struggled significantly with biology. Science has always been a subject I enjoyed, especially when it comes to learning about animals and their biology, given my interest in veterinary and animal sciences. However, biology was a different beast altogether. The concepts were abstract, and the equations seemed like a foreign language to me. My grades in the class were slipping, and I felt overwhelmed and discouraged.

At first, I tried to tackle the problem on my own. I spent hours poring over the textbook, watching online tutorials, and attempting to work through practice problems. Despite my efforts, I was not making the progress I had hoped for. My grades were not improving, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the class, which was disheartening because I knew how important a solid foundation in science was for my future studies in veterinary and animal sciences.

Realizing that my solo efforts were not enough, I decided to seek help. This was not an easy decision for me, as I have always been somewhat independent and hesitant to ask for assistance. However, I knew that if I wanted to improve, I needed to reach out. I started by attending after-school tutoring sessions offered by my biology teacher. At first, I was nervous about admitting my struggles, but my teacher was incredibly supportive and patient. She helped break down the complex topics into more manageable pieces and offered practical tips for studying and problem-solving.

In addition to tutoring, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also finding biology challenging. We met regularly to review material together, quiz each other, and share different approaches to solving problems. This collaborative environment made a huge difference. Not only did it provide me with different perspectives and insights, but it also made studying more enjoyable and less isolating.

Through consistent effort and with the support of my teacher and peers, I gradually began to understand the material better. My grades improved, and more importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and the value of seeking help when needed. It also reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in veterinary and animal sciences, as I realized that overcoming challenges is an integral part of learning and growth.

Looking back, I am grateful for the struggles I faced in biology because they prepared me for future challenges. As I plan to attend Northeast Iowa Community College to study veterinary and animal sciences, I know that I will encounter difficult courses and concepts. However, I am equipped with the tools and mindset to overcome these obstacles. I have learned that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a step towards success. I have also learned the power of collaboration and how working with others can enhance my understanding and make the learning process more rewarding.

In conclusion, my challenging experience with biology taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, seeking help, and the importance of collaboration. These lessons have not only helped me improve academically but have also prepared me for future challenges in my pursuit of a career in veterinary and animal sciences. I am excited to continue my education at Northeast Iowa Community College, where I will apply what I have learned to achieve my academic and career goals.