Time Management by Lillian

Time Management by Lillian - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my college journey at the University of Kansas, I have experienced many academic challenges, but one that stands out to me involved a particularly tough semester where I was balancing my majors in Mechanical Engineering and Social Sciences. This experience tested my perseverance and taught me valuable lessons about resilience and resourcefulness.

During my junior year, I enrolled in a demanding set of courses that included Thermodynamics, a core class for my Mechanical Engineering major, and a Social Theory class, which was crucial for my Social Sciences major. At the same time, I was involved in a group project that required a significant amount of my time and energy. Balancing these responsibilities was overwhelming, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the workload.

Thermodynamics was especially challenging because it required a deep understanding of complex concepts and mathematical applications. I had always found math to be a bit daunting, and this class was no exception. I spent long nights trying to grasp the material, but my initial grades were not reflecting my efforts. It was disheartening to see my hard work not paying off as I had hoped.

In my Social Theory class, I faced a different kind of challenge. The course required a lot of critical thinking and analysis of dense theoretical texts. I was passionate about the subject, but I found it difficult to articulate my thoughts clearly and concisely in my essays. My grades in this class were not where I wanted them to be either, and I started to doubt my abilities.

Feeling overwhelmed, I realized I needed to make some changes to overcome these challenges. First, I sought help from my professors. I attended office hours regularly, asking questions and seeking clarification on topics I found difficult. My Thermodynamics professor was particularly supportive, offering additional resources and practice problems that helped me improve my understanding of the material.

In addition to seeking help from my professors, I formed study groups with classmates. Working with peers allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material and learn collaboratively. This was especially helpful in Thermodynamics, where discussing problems with others helped solidify my understanding.

For my Social Theory class, I decided to improve my writing skills by visiting the university's writing center. The tutors there provided valuable feedback on my essays, helping me to organize my thoughts more effectively and express my ideas more clearly. This support was instrumental in boosting my confidence and improving my grades in the class.

Time management was another crucial aspect of overcoming my academic challenges. I started using a planner to organize my tasks and set realistic goals for each day. Breaking down assignments into smaller, manageable parts made the workload feel less overwhelming and helped me stay on top of my responsibilities.

Despite the initial setbacks, my efforts began to pay off. My grades improved, and I felt more confident in my abilities. The experience taught me the importance of seeking help when needed, collaborating with others, and managing my time effectively. It also reinforced my passion for both of my majors, as the challenges I faced only deepened my appreciation for the subjects I was studying.

This challenging academic experience taught me resilience and the value of perseverance. It showed me that setbacks are not the end but rather opportunities for growth and learning. I learned that it is okay to struggle and that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

As I approach graduation, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that they will serve me well in my future endeavors. I am grateful for the challenges I faced, as they have shaped me into a more determined and resourceful student. This experience has prepared me to tackle any obstacles that may come my way, both academically and professionally.

In conclusion, overcoming academic challenges has been a significant part of my college experience. By seeking support, collaborating with peers, and managing my time effectively, I was able to turn a difficult situation into a valuable learning opportunity. I am proud of the progress I have made and am excited to continue pursuing my passions with the skills and resilience I have gained.