Overcoming Ap Classes by Karly

Overcoming Ap Classes by Karly - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

During high school, I have faced a bunch of academic challenges, but one really stands out. It was my junior year, and things were getting tough with all the coursework and the pressure of college applications. The biggest challenge was my AP U.S. History class. I was super interested in the subject, but it turned out to be way harder than I expected.

Right from the start, the class was intense. There was so much reading, and the essays and tests were no joke. I had always done well in school, but my usual study methods just were not cutting it. My first few tests and essays did not go great, and I started feeling overwhelmed. It was frustrating because I was putting in the effort, but my grades did not show it, especially in a subject I liked.

I knew I had to change something, so I decided to ask for help. I talked to my teacher, Ms. Thompson, who was really supportive. She gave me some great advice on how to handle the material better. She suggested focusing on the bigger themes and connections between historical events instead of just memorizing facts. This advice was a game changer for me. It helped me see the subject in a new way.

I also realized I needed to manage my time better. I started organizing my study schedule, setting aside specific times for reading, taking notes, and reviewing. This made a big difference and helped me avoid the stress of last-minute cramming. Plus, I joined a study group with some classmates. Studying together let us share ideas, quiz each other, and talk through tough topics, which really helped me understand things better.

Improving my essay writing was another big focus. I looked at sample essays and got feedback from Ms. Thompson on my drafts. Her tips helped me make my arguments clearer and my writing stronger. I learned to write thesis statements that were both clear and to the point, and to back up my points with solid evidence. Over time, my essays got better, and I felt more confident in expressing my ideas.

Even with all this, there were still times I felt frustrated. But I learned to be patient with myself and see mistakes as chances to learn. I kept reminding myself why I loved history—the stories of resilience, change, and how people can impact events. This passion kept me going, even when things got tough.

By the end of the year, my grades improved a lot, and I felt really proud of myself. More importantly, I picked up skills that are useful beyond just school. I learned how to adapt to tough situations, ask for help, and keep pushing through challenges. These lessons are going to be really helpful in college, especially since I want to major in law, where critical thinking and good communication are key.

Looking back, I am actually grateful for the challenges I faced because they helped me grow. Now, I see challenges as opportunities to learn and build resilience. This mindset will definitely help me in my future academic and career goals. I am excited to continue my education, using the strategies and determination I developed during this important time in high school.

In short, getting through the difficulties in my AP U.S. History class was a big moment in my academic journey. It taught me that with perseverance, support, and a willingness to change, I can overcome challenges and reach my goals. I am looking forward to bringing this attitude to college, where I will keep embracing challenges and aiming for success in my studies and beyond.