academic adversity by Kaven

academic adversity by Kaven - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Education is the key to breaking the chains of limitation. It’s like being in a dark room full of obstacles—nearly impossible to navigate without light. Education illuminates that room, helping us see and overcome the challenges that hold us back.

As a sophomore in college pursuing nursing, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. One of the prerequisites for the nursing program is completing College Math 1 and 2. For as long as I can remember, math has been my Achilles' heel. Struggling with it throughout my life led me to develop deep-seated negative beliefs about my ability to succeed in the subject.

These self-limiting beliefs shaped my approach to the class. Instead of giving it my all, I put in the bare minimum effort, avoiding the struggle and discomfort that came with the work. I convinced myself I couldn't succeed, so I didn’t even try. This mindset carried me through the first half of the semester—until midterms.

By then, I had a 53% in the class, a grade I had earned through my lack of effort. Panic set in as I realized this class was a non-negotiable requirement for my nursing program. I felt stuck, unsure of how to turn things around. Thankfully, I had surrounded myself with a supportive group of friends who were academically driven. Their advice became the turning point for me.

The most valuable tip they gave me was to attend my professor’s office hours. Initially, I hadn’t realized how helpful these sessions could be—not just for understanding the material but also for building a connection with the professor. That connection proved to be invaluable. I learned the importance of asking questions when confused and actively seeking clarity instead of letting fear or frustration hold me back.

With renewed effort and determination, I started applying myself to the class. By the end of the semester, I had raised my grade to 81%. This experience shattered my negative beliefs about math and taught me that success is possible with the right mindset, resources, and persistence. It was a turning point not just in my academic journey but also in how I view challenges and my ability to overcome them.