Advocacy is My Best Policy by Lin

Advocacy is My Best Policy by Lin - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a high school junior at Los Alamos High, I have encountered my fair share of academic challenges, but none quite like my experience with Algebra 2 during my sophomore year. Mathematics has always been a subject that requires a bit more effort on my part, but I was determined to tackle Algebra 2 head-on. Little did I know that this class would become one of the most challenging experiences in my academic journey.

From the very beginning, I struggled to keep up with the lessons. The teacher had a teaching style that did not resonate with me, and I found myself lost in a sea of numbers and equations. My classmates seemed to grasp the material with ease, which only added to my frustration and self-doubt. Despite my best efforts, I could not seem to make sense of the concepts being taught. It felt like I was missing a crucial piece of the puzzle that everyone else had.

As the semester progressed, my grades reflected my struggles. I barely managed to scrape by with a C, and I knew that something had to change. I realized that continuing in an environment that was not conducive to my learning style would only hinder my progress. This realization was a turning point for me. I understood that in order to succeed, I needed to take control of my learning environment.

After careful consideration, I decided to switch classes for the second semester. This decision was not easy, as it meant stepping out of my comfort zone and starting anew. However, I was determined to find a class that would provide me with the tools and support I needed to succeed. The new teacher had a different approach to teaching, one that was more aligned with my learning style. Concepts that once seemed impossible to grasp began to make sense, and I found myself gaining confidence with each lesson.

The difference was remarkable. With the new teaching style, I was able to engage with the material in a way that made sense to me. I started participating more in class, asking questions, and seeking clarification whenever I needed it. My newfound understanding of the material was reflected in my grades, and by the end of the semester, I finished Algebra 2 with an A. This achievement was more than just a grade; it was a testament to my ability to identify an environment that was not working for me and make the necessary changes to succeed.

This experience taught me an invaluable lesson about the importance of advocating for myself and recognizing when a change is needed. It showed me that it is okay to seek out different paths to achieve success and that perseverance and adaptability are key components of overcoming challenges. I am proud of myself for taking the initiative to switch classes and for not giving up when things got tough.

Looking back, I am grateful for the struggles I faced in Algebra 2 because they pushed me to become a more proactive and resilient student. This experience has shaped my approach to learning and has given me the confidence to tackle future challenges with a positive mindset. It has also reinforced my belief in the importance of finding the right environment to thrive academically.

As I continue my education, I carry with me the lessons I learned from this experience. I am excited to apply these lessons to my future studies, particularly in fields like psychology, philosophy, and sociology, where understanding different perspectives and adapting to new information are crucial. I am eager to continue growing as a student and to embrace the challenges that come my way, knowing that I have the tools and determination to overcome them.