Overcoming homelessness by Keyareia

Overcoming homelessness by Keyareia - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a high school senior with a passion for psychology, sociology, and mental health, I have faced significant challenges on my academic journey. One of the most difficult experiences was during my senior year when I took Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology. At the time, I was dealing with the instability of being homeless, which made it incredibly challenging to focus on my studies and keep up with the demands of the class.

Initially, I was excited to take AP Psychology because it aligned perfectly with my interests and future career goals. However, the reality of my living situation made it difficult to attend classes regularly and complete assignments on time. Without a stable home environment, I struggled to find a quiet place to study and often had to prioritize finding shelter and basic necessities over schoolwork.

My first major setback came with the initial exam, where my grade reflected the chaos I was experiencing outside of school. It was disheartening to see my performance suffer, and I began to worry about how it would impact my future aspirations. Despite these challenges, I refused to let my circumstances define my academic potential. I was determined to succeed in AP Psychology and prove to myself that I could overcome this adversity.

To keep my grade up, I had to be resourceful and proactive. I made it a point to communicate with my teacher about my situation, and thankfully, she was understanding and supportive. She provided me with additional resources and allowed me some flexibility with deadlines, which was a tremendous help.

Despite the obstacles, I found ways to connect the material to real-life situations, which kept me motivated and engaged. I read articles and watched documentaries related to psychology, which deepened my understanding and made the subject more relatable. This connection to real-world applications reinforced my passion for the field and my desire to pursue a career in mental health.

As the semester progressed, my hard work began to pay off. My grades improved, and I gained confidence in my ability to succeed despite my circumstances. This experience taught me the importance of resilience, determination, and the willingness to seek help when needed. It also reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in mental health, where I hope to support others facing their own challenges.

In overcoming the difficulties of homelessness while taking AP Psychology, I learned that challenges are opportunities for growth. I discovered that with perseverance and the right support, I could overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. As I look forward to attending college, I am excited to continue my studies in psychology and mental health, driven by the desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

This experience has shaped me into a stronger and more determined individual. I am ready to embrace the opportunities that college will bring and continue my pursuit of knowledge in a field I am passionate about.