Academic challenges by Lukas

Academic challenges by Lukas - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Lukas Troutman, and I am a junior at Slippery Rock University, majoring in Kinesiology and Physical Therapy. I have always been passionate about understanding the human body and helping others improve their physical well-being. However, my journey through college has not been without its challenges. One of the most significant academic challenges I faced was during my sophomore year when I struggled with a particularly difficult course in biomechanics.

Biomechanics is a core subject in my field of study, and I knew it was crucial for my future career. However, when I first encountered the course, I was overwhelmed by the complexity of the material. The concepts were intricate, and the mathematical components were more advanced than I had anticipated. I found myself struggling to keep up with the lectures and assignments, and my grades began to reflect this struggle. It was disheartening to see my GPA drop, and I knew I had to take action if I wanted to succeed.

The first step I took to overcome this challenge was to seek help. I realized that I could not tackle this problem on my own, so I reached out to my professor for guidance. My professor was incredibly supportive and provided me with additional resources to better understand the material. He also encouraged me to attend office hours regularly, which allowed me to ask questions and clarify any doubts I had. This one-on-one interaction was invaluable and helped me gain a deeper understanding of the concepts.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also formed a study group with some of my classmates. This was a game-changer for me. Working with others who were facing the same challenges helped me realize that I was not alone in my struggle. We met regularly to review lecture notes, work on problem sets, and discuss difficult topics. Collaborating with my peers allowed me to see different perspectives and approaches to solving problems, which greatly enhanced my learning experience.

Moreover, I realized the importance of time management and organization in overcoming academic challenges. I started to prioritize my coursework and set aside dedicated study time each day. Creating a study schedule helped me stay on track and ensured that I was consistently reviewing the material. I also made use of online resources, such as educational videos and tutorials, to supplement my learning. These resources provided additional explanations and examples that reinforced my understanding of the subject.

Another key factor in overcoming this challenge was maintaining a positive mindset. It was easy to feel defeated when my grades were not where I wanted them to be, but I reminded myself that setbacks are a part of the learning process. I focused on the progress I was making and celebrated small victories along the way. This shift in mindset helped me stay motivated and persistent in my efforts to improve.

As the semester progressed, I began to see the results of my hard work. My grades in biomechanics improved, and I gained confidence in my ability to tackle challenging material. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and seeking support when needed. It also reinforced my passion for kinesiology and physical therapy, as I was reminded of the value of understanding complex concepts to help others.

In conclusion, the challenge I faced in my biomechanics course was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me valuable lessons about seeking help, collaborating with peers, managing my time effectively, and maintaining a positive attitude. Overcoming this challenge not only improved my academic performance but also strengthened my determination to succeed in my chosen field. I am grateful for the support I received from my professor and classmates, and I am proud of the progress I made. This experience has prepared me for future challenges and has reaffirmed my commitment to my studies and my career goals.