My Journey through Pathophysiology by Kiersten

My Journey through Pathophysiology by Kiersten - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I started my journey as a nursing student at the University of South Alabama, I knew it would be challenging, but I was not prepared for how demanding it would truly be. One of the most difficult academic experiences I faced was during my junior year, in a course called Pathophysiology. This class was notorious among students for being one of the toughest in the nursing program, and it lived up to its reputation.

Pathophysiology is the study of how diseases affect the body, and it requires a deep understanding of both biology and anatomy. From the start, I found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information I needed to memorize and comprehend. Each lecture introduced complex concepts and terms that felt foreign and intimidating. I remember sitting in class, trying to keep up with the fast-paced lectures while frantically taking notes, feeling like I was always one step behind.

The first exam was a wake-up call. Despite studying hard, I did not perform as well as I had hoped. I realized that my usual study habits were not enough for this class. I felt discouraged and even questioned if I was cut out for nursing. However, I knew I could not give up. I had to find a way to overcome this challenge.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours. I was nervous at first, worried that I would come across as unprepared or incapable, but my professor was incredibly supportive. She helped me understand the areas I was struggling with and provided additional resources for me to review. This experience taught me the importance of asking for help and utilizing the resources available to me.

Next, I changed my study habits. I realized that cramming the night before an exam was not effective. Instead, I started studying well in advance, breaking down the material into manageable sections. I created a study schedule that allowed me to review a little bit each day, which helped reinforce my understanding over time. I also joined a study group with some classmates. Working together, we were able to explain concepts to each other and fill in gaps in our knowledge. This collaborative approach made studying more engaging and less daunting.

Additionally, I used different learning techniques to aid my comprehension. I made flashcards to memorize key terms and processes, which I reviewed regularly. I also found that drawing diagrams helped me visualize how diseases affect different systems in the body. By using a variety of study methods, I was able to grasp the material more thoroughly.

Despite all these efforts, there were still times when I felt overwhelmed. During those moments, I reminded myself why I chose nursing in the first place. I have always wanted to help people and make a difference in their lives. This goal motivated me to push through the difficult times and keep striving for success.

By the time the final exam came around, I felt more confident in my understanding of the material. I had put in the work, and it paid off. I managed to significantly improve my grade and finished the course with a strong understanding of pathophysiology. This experience taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, the importance of seeking help, and the effectiveness of diverse study strategies.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in that class. It pushed me to grow as a student and as a future nurse. I learned that it is okay to struggle and that overcoming obstacles makes success even more rewarding. These lessons have stayed with me throughout my nursing program and will continue to guide me in my career.

In conclusion, my experience with Pathophysiology was one of the most challenging academic hurdles I have faced, but it was also one of the most rewarding. By seeking help, adapting my study habits, and staying motivated, I was able to overcome the difficulties and succeed. This experience has prepared me for future challenges and strengthened my resolve to become a compassionate and knowledgeable nurse. I am thankful for the opportunity to learn and grow, and I am excited to continue my journey in the nursing field.