Me. by Kayleigh

Me. by Kayleigh - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Kayleigh Sampson, and I am currently a senior in high school. I am excited about the prospect of attending Southwestern Assemblies of God University to pursue a major in Religious and Theological Studies. As I reflect on my academic journey, one challenging experience stands out, which has significantly shaped my approach to learning and personal growth.

During my junior year, I encountered a particularly difficult period in my academic life. I was enrolled in an advanced placement English class, which was known for its rigorous curriculum and demanding workload. From the outset, I was eager to take on the challenge, but I soon realized that the course was more demanding than I had anticipated. The assignments required a deep level of critical thinking and analysis, skills I had not fully developed. My first few essays came back with lower grades than I expected, and I felt overwhelmed and discouraged.

The pressure of maintaining a good GPA, especially with my goal of attending a university that aligned with my interests in religious studies, weighed heavily on me. I knew I had to find a way to overcome this challenge, not only to improve my grades but also to build my confidence in my academic abilities.

The turning point came when I decided to seek help and adopt a new approach to my studies. I started by reaching out to my English teacher, who was incredibly supportive. I explained my struggles and asked for guidance on how to improve my writing and analytical skills. She suggested that I attend her after-school tutoring sessions, where she provided personalized feedback on my essays and helped me understand the nuances of literary analysis.

In addition to the extra help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were facing similar challenges. We met regularly to discuss the readings, share insights, and critique each other's work. This collaborative environment was instrumental in helping me see different perspectives and learn from my peers. It also fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual support, which made the learning process more enjoyable.

I also took the initiative to utilize online resources, such as writing guides and academic articles, to further enhance my understanding of the subjects we were studying. This self-directed learning allowed me to explore topics more deeply and develop a more comprehensive approach to my assignments.

Gradually, I began to see improvements in my writing and analysis skills. My grades started to reflect my hard work, and I gained a newfound confidence in my ability to tackle challenging material. More importantly, this experience taught me the value of perseverance, seeking help when needed, and the power of collaboration.

This academic challenge was more than just a hurdle to overcome; it was a valuable lesson in resilience and adaptability. It showed me that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to grow and learn. This mindset has become a cornerstone of my approach to education and life in general.

As I prepare to transition to college, I am eager to apply these lessons to my studies in Religious and Theological Studies. I am passionate about exploring the complexities of faith and spirituality, and I believe that the skills I have developed will serve me well in this field. I am committed to continuing to seek knowledge, engage with diverse perspectives, and contribute positively to the academic community at Southwestern Assemblies of God University.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming this academic challenge has been a defining moment in my educational journey. It has equipped me with the tools and mindset needed to succeed in college and beyond. I am grateful for the support I received from my teacher and peers, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.