by Lukman

by Lukman - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced numerous challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly difficult. It was during my sophomore year when I found myself struggling with chemistry. Science has always intrigued me, and I have a strong interest in pursuing a career in the medical field. However, chemistry was a subject that I found especially tough to grasp. The concepts were complex, and no matter how much I studied, my grades did not reflect my effort. I knew that if I wanted to pursue a major in Pre-Med or Medical/Biomedical Engineering, I had to overcome this obstacle.

At first, I felt overwhelmed and discouraged. My GPA was already not as high as I wanted it to be, and my struggles in chemistry only made me feel more anxious about my academic future. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. The first step I took was reaching out for help. I began attending after-school tutoring sessions with my chemistry teacher. These sessions were incredibly helpful because they allowed me to ask questions and get immediate feedback on the areas I found confusing.

In addition to tutoring, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling with chemistry. We met twice a week to review notes, work through problems together, and quiz each other. This collaborative environment was beneficial because it provided different perspectives on the material, and we were able to learn from each other’s strengths. It also helped to know that I was not alone in my struggles, which made the experience less isolating.

Another strategy I adopted was changing the way I studied. I realized that simply reading the textbook was not enough for me to fully understand the material. I started using online resources, like educational videos and interactive simulations, which helped me visualize the chemical processes and better understand the concepts. These resources made learning more engaging and allowed me to grasp difficult topics at my own pace.

As I continued to work hard and utilize these strategies, I began to see improvements in my understanding and my grades. My confidence grew as I started to perform better in class and on exams. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and seeking help when needed. It also reinforced my passion for science and my determination to pursue a career in the medical field.

Overcoming my struggles in chemistry was not just about improving my grades; it was about developing resilience and learning how to tackle challenges head-on. I learned that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow. This mindset has been invaluable, not only in my academic pursuits but also in other areas of my life.

As I look forward to attending Virginia Commonwealth University, I am excited about the opportunities to further explore my interests in Pre-Med and Medical/Biomedical Engineering. I know that these fields will present their own set of challenges, but I am confident in my ability to face them. My experience with chemistry has prepared me to approach difficult situations with patience, persistence, and a willingness to seek help and learn from others.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced with chemistry taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, collaboration, and adapting my study methods. These lessons will serve me well as I continue my education and work towards my goal of making a positive impact in the medical field. I am grateful for the support I received from my teachers and peers, and I am proud of the progress I have made. This experience has strengthened my resolve to succeed and has shown me that with hard work and determination, I can overcome any obstacle.