Who I am by Leilani

Who I am by Leilani - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a sophomore at Virginia State University, majoring in Marketing, I have encountered my fair share of academic challenges. One experience that stands out is my struggle during the first year of college. It was a time of transition and adjustment, and it tested my resilience in ways I had not anticipated.

When I first arrived at college, I was excited but also overwhelmed. The workload was heavier than I expected, and the pace was much faster than high school. I found myself struggling to keep up with assignments and lectures. My GPA, which is currently 2.5, reflects some of those early struggles. I realized that I needed to find a way to manage my time better and improve my study habits if I wanted to succeed.

The most challenging part was a marketing course that was foundational for my major. The concepts were new and complex, and I had difficulty grasping them. I felt lost during lectures and was hesitant to ask questions, fearing that I would appear unprepared. This led to poor performance on my first few exams, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in my chosen field.

To overcome this, I knew I had to change my approach. I started by reaching out for help. I spoke with my professor during office hours, which was intimidating at first, but it turned out to be incredibly helpful. My professor was understanding and provided additional resources and guidance on how to approach the material. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help when needed and not being afraid to ask questions.

Additionally, I formed a study group with a few classmates. Working with peers who were going through the same challenges made a big difference. We shared notes, discussed difficult concepts, and quizzed each other before exams. This collaborative learning environment helped me gain a better understanding of the material and boosted my confidence.

Time management was another area I needed to improve. I started using a planner to organize my schedule, setting aside specific times for studying, attending classes, and completing assignments. Breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable parts made them less overwhelming. I also learned to prioritize my workload, focusing on the most important tasks first and setting realistic goals for each study session.

Despite the initial setbacks, these strategies gradually started to pay off. My grades improved, and I felt more in control of my academic life. The experience taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and resilience. I learned that it is okay to struggle and that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. It also reinforced my passion for marketing, as I discovered that overcoming these challenges made me more committed to my studies and future career.

This academic challenge was not just about improving my grades; it was a journey of personal growth. It pushed me to develop skills that are essential not only in academics but in life. I became more disciplined, learned to manage my time effectively, and realized the importance of building a support network.

As I continue my education at Virginia State University, I am determined to keep improving. I know that I will face more challenges along the way, but I am confident in my ability to overcome them. The experience from my first year has prepared me to tackle obstacles head-on and has given me the tools to succeed.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced taught me more than just marketing concepts; it taught me about resilience, perseverance, and the power of seeking help. These lessons will stay with me throughout my college journey and beyond. I am grateful for the opportunity to reflect on this experience and share it, as it has been a significant part of my growth as a student and as a person.