Overcome the academic challenge by Le Na

Overcome the academic challenge by Le Na - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Le Na Hoang, and I am a freshman at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, majoring in Mechanical Engineering. I am thrilled to be studying at a school that aligns so closely with my passion for engineering and aviation, but my journey here has not been without its challenges. One of the most significant academic challenges I faced was during my first semester of college. Adjusting to the rigorous demands of a university-level engineering program while being away from home for the first time was a daunting experience.

When I first arrived at Embry-Riddle, I was eager and excited to dive into my courses. However, I quickly realized that the workload and the level of understanding required were far more intense than anything I had encountered in high school. I found myself struggling particularly with Calculus, a subject that is foundational for my major. The pace of the class was fast, and I felt like I was constantly trying to catch up. The concepts were complex, and I often left lectures feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to tackle my assignments.

The stress of not performing as well as I had hoped was compounded by the fact that I was far from home, away from the support system of family and friends I had relied on throughout high school. I knew I needed to find a way to manage both my academic workload and my emotional well-being if I was going to succeed.

The first step I took to overcome this challenge was to seek help. I realized that trying to handle everything on my own was not working, and I needed to reach out for support. I started attending office hours regularly, where my Calculus professor was incredibly patient and willing to explain concepts in different ways until I understood them. This one-on-one time was invaluable, as it allowed me to ask questions I might have been too shy to ask in a larger classroom setting.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also joined a study group with some of my classmates. This turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. Working with peers who were facing the same challenges helped me feel less isolated, and we were able to support each other through difficult topics. We met several times a week, and the collaborative environment allowed us to share different problem-solving approaches and learn from one another.

Time management was another critical area I needed to improve. In high school, I had been able to get by without a strict schedule, but I quickly learned that this would not work in college. I started using a planner to map out my assignments, exams, and study sessions. Breaking down my workload into manageable chunks made it feel less overwhelming and helped me stay on top of my responsibilities.

I also made a conscious effort to take care of my mental and physical health. I set aside time each week for activities that helped me relax and recharge, like going for a run or reading a book. I found that when I took care of myself, I was better able to focus and perform academically.

Through these strategies, I gradually gained confidence in my ability to handle the demands of my coursework. By the end of the semester, I had not only improved my grades in Calculus but also developed a stronger understanding of the subject, which has been crucial for my subsequent engineering courses.

Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the lessons it taught me. I learned the importance of seeking help and building a support network, both academically and personally. I discovered the power of perseverance and the value of approaching challenges with a problem-solving mindset. Most importantly, I realized that I am capable of overcoming obstacles, even when they seem insurmountable at first.

This challenging academic experience has equipped me with skills and strategies that I continue to use as I progress through my studies. It has reinforced my commitment to my goals and has made me more resilient in the face of future challenges. I am proud of how far I have come, and I am excited to continue my journey in mechanical engineering, knowing that I have the tools to succeed, no matter what obstacles I encounter along the way.