Overcoming by Kierra

Overcoming by Kierra - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Kierra Preston, and I am a high school junior with a passion for numbers and helping people. As I look forward to pursuing higher education in fields like Accounting, Finance, or Counseling, I reflect on a challenging academic experience that taught me resilience and determination.

During my sophomore year, I faced one of my toughest academic challenges in my Algebra II class. Math has always been a subject I enjoyed, but this particular class was a different story. The concepts were more complex, and I struggled to keep up with the fast pace of the lessons. My usual study habits were not enough to grasp the material, and my grades began to slip. Seeing my grades drop was disheartening, and I felt overwhelmed, thinking I might not be able to catch up.

The turning point came when I received a particularly low score on a midterm exam. It was a wake-up call that I needed to change my approach. I realized that I could not tackle this challenge alone and needed to seek help. This realization was not easy, as I have always prided myself on being independent and self-reliant. However, I knew that asking for help was not a sign of weakness but rather a step towards improvement.

I started by talking to my teacher after class. She was understanding and offered to help me during her office hours. These one-on-one sessions were invaluable, as she explained the concepts in ways that made sense to me. I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were facing similar struggles. We met regularly to review material, work on practice problems, and support each other. It was comforting to know I was not alone and that we could learn from each other.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher and peers, I took it upon myself to find additional resources. I used online tutorials and math websites to supplement my learning. These resources provided different perspectives and explanations that helped solidify my understanding of the material. I also began to approach my studies with more discipline, setting aside specific times each day to focus on math and breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts.

Through consistent effort and the support of my teacher and peers, I gradually improved my understanding of Algebra II. My grades started to rise, and I regained confidence in my abilities. By the end of the semester, I had not only passed the class but had also developed a deeper appreciation for math.

This experience taught me several important lessons. First, it is okay to ask for help when needed. No one has all the answers, and collaborating with others can lead to better understanding and success. Second, perseverance and hard work are key to overcoming challenges. Even when things seem difficult, putting in the effort and staying committed can lead to improvement. Lastly, this experience reinforced my belief in the importance of education and the value of learning from setbacks.

As I look ahead to college, I am excited about the opportunities to further my education in Accounting, Finance, or Counseling. I know that these fields will present their own challenges, but I am confident that the skills I have developed in overcoming my struggles in Algebra II will serve me well. I am eager to continue learning and growing, both academically and personally.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming my struggles in Algebra II was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me the value of asking for help, the importance of perseverance, and the power of collaboration. These lessons have prepared me for future challenges and have strengthened my resolve to pursue my goals in higher education. I am grateful for the support I received and am motivated to continue working hard to achieve my dreams.