Overcoming by maddy

Overcoming by maddy - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Maddy Cobb, and I am a high school senior excited to embark on my college journey. I am interested in majoring in Education, Psychology, or Social Work because I have always been passionate about understanding people and helping them grow. However, my path to this point has not been without its challenges. One particular academic experience tested my determination and taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and resilience.

During my sophomore year of high school, I faced a significant challenge in my chemistry class. Science had never been my strongest subject, but chemistry was especially difficult for me. The concepts seemed abstract, and I struggled with balancing equations and understanding the periodic table. As the semester progressed, my grades began to slip, and I found myself feeling increasingly overwhelmed and discouraged.

I knew I had to take action if I wanted to improve. First, I had a candid conversation with my chemistry teacher. I explained my difficulties and asked for advice on how to better grasp the material. My teacher was understanding and suggested I attend tutoring sessions after school. This was a turning point for me, as it showed me the importance of seeking help and using available resources.

Attending tutoring sessions was not easy at first. I felt embarrassed that I needed extra help and worried about what my peers might think. However, I soon realized that many students were in the same boat, and the tutors were there to support us, not judge us. The sessions provided a more personalized learning experience, and I was able to ask questions without fear of being judged. Slowly but surely, I began to understand the material better.

In addition to tutoring, I also changed my study habits. I started dedicating specific times each day to review chemistry notes and practice problems. I used online resources like educational videos and interactive quizzes to reinforce what I learned in class. This consistent practice helped solidify my understanding and boosted my confidence.

One of the most important things I learned during this time was the value of perseverance. There were moments when I felt like giving up, but I reminded myself of my goals and the importance of education in achieving them. I kept pushing forward, even when progress seemed slow.

As the semester came to an end, I saw significant improvement in my chemistry grades. I went from barely passing to earning a solid B. More importantly, I gained a sense of accomplishment and confidence in my ability to overcome challenges. This experience taught me that while I may not excel in every subject, I have the capacity to improve through hard work and determination.

This challenge also reinforced my desire to pursue a career in Education, Psychology, or Social Work. I realized how crucial it is for students to have support systems and resources available to them. I want to be someone who can provide that support and help others navigate their own challenges.

Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the lessons I learned. It taught me to take initiative, seek help when needed, and remain persistent in the face of difficulties. These are qualities I will carry with me into college and my future career.

As I look forward to attending college, whether at the University of Mississippi, University of Missouri, or University of Kentucky, I am eager to continue learning and growing. I know that college will present its own set of challenges, but I am confident in my ability to face them head-on, equipped with the skills and mindset I developed during my high school years.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in chemistry taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, resourcefulness, and the importance of seeking help. It reinforced my commitment to my educational goals and my desire to support others in their academic journeys. I am excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead, and I am determined to make the most of them.