Philosophy by Kylee

Philosophy by Kylee - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

A particularly challenging academic experience I faced was during a philosophy course that was foundational to my major. The subject matter was abstract, involving complex theories and arguments from thinkers like Kant, Nietzsche, and Descartes. Initially, I struggled to grasp the nuances of the concepts and to construct coherent arguments in my assignments. My grades reflected this difficulty, and I began to feel overwhelmed.

Determined to improve, I adopted a proactive approach. I started by seeking help from my professor during office hours, asking questions about the material and requesting guidance on how to analyze philosophical texts effectively. I also formed a study group with classmates who were excelling in the course. Their perspectives and explanations helped me see things in ways I hadn’t considered.

Additionally, I supplemented my learning with online resources. I watched lectures and videos that broke down the dense material into digestible parts. Hearing the ideas explained in simpler terms helped solidify my understanding, and I was able to approach the texts with renewed confidence.

Over time, my efforts paid off. My participation in class discussions improved, and I started receiving better grades on assignments. More importantly, I developed a deeper appreciation for philosophy and the critical thinking skills it fosters. This experience taught me the value of persistence, collaboration, and utilizing available resources to overcome challenges.