My Academic Challenge by Kelaysia

My Academic Challenge by Kelaysia - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Kelaysia Williams, and I am a high school senior with a passion for nursing. As I look forward to attending college, I reflect on the challenging academic experiences that have shaped me and prepared me for the future. One experience that stands out is the difficulty I faced in my junior year during my Advanced Placement (AP) Biology class. This class was not only demanding in terms of content but also required a level of dedication and perseverance I had not encountered before.

From the start, AP Biology was a whirlwind of complex concepts and intricate details. We delved into topics like genetics, cellular processes, and ecology, each requiring a deep understanding and the ability to connect ideas. I quickly realized that my usual study habits were not enough to keep up with the pace and depth of the material. My initial attempts to grasp the content left me feeling overwhelmed and unsure of my abilities.

The turning point came after I received a disappointing grade on the first major exam. It was a wake-up call that I needed to change my approach. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in nursing, and understanding biology was crucial for my future studies. I decided to take action by seeking help and developing new strategies to overcome the challenges I faced.

First, I reached out to my teacher for guidance. She was incredibly supportive and provided me with additional resources, such as study guides and practice questions. Her encouragement and willingness to help made a significant difference in my confidence. I also began attending after-school study sessions, where I could ask questions and review difficult concepts with my peers. This collaborative environment was invaluable, as it allowed me to learn from others and gain different perspectives on the material.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher and classmates, I adopted new study techniques to better retain information. I started creating detailed notes and diagrams to visualize complex processes, which helped me understand and remember key concepts. I also utilized online resources, such as educational videos and interactive quizzes, to reinforce my learning. By diversifying my study methods, I was able to engage with the material in a way that suited my learning style.

Time management was another crucial aspect of overcoming this academic challenge. Balancing my AP Biology workload with other classes and extracurricular activities required careful planning. I developed a study schedule that allowed me to allocate specific times for reviewing biology, ensuring that I stayed on top of the material without feeling overwhelmed. This disciplined approach not only improved my performance in biology but also helped me manage my responsibilities more effectively.

As the year progressed, my hard work and dedication began to pay off. I saw a steady improvement in my grades and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. The challenges I faced in AP Biology taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability. I learned that it is okay to ask for help and that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. This experience also reinforced my passion for the sciences and my commitment to pursuing a career in nursing.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I encountered in AP Biology. They pushed me to grow academically and personally, equipping me with skills that will serve me well in college and beyond. I am excited to continue my education at one of the universities I am considering, such as Emory University or Spelman College, where I can further develop my knowledge and skills in nursing.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in AP Biology taught me valuable lessons about resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of seeking support. By overcoming these obstacles, I have become a stronger student and a more determined individual. I am eager to apply these lessons to my future studies and make a positive impact in the field of nursing. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.