Never be afraid to ask for help by Marco

Never be afraid to ask for help by Marco - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced many academic challenges, but one stands out as particularly significant. It was during my junior year in biology class, a subject I have always been passionate about and plan to major in at Boston College. Despite my interest, I found myself struggling with the complex concepts of genetics. This experience taught me important lessons about perseverance, resourcefulness, and the value of seeking help when needed.

At first, I was excited to dive into the genetics unit. The idea of understanding the very building blocks of life was fascinating to me. However, as we delved deeper into topics like Mendelian inheritance, Punnett squares, and DNA replication, I began to feel overwhelmed. The material was dense, and I struggled to keep up with the pace of the class. My grades started to slip, and I felt frustrated and discouraged.

Realizing that I could not tackle this challenge alone, I decided to reach out for help. I approached my biology teacher after class and explained my difficulties. She was incredibly supportive and suggested that I attend her office hours for extra help. During these sessions, she broke down the complex concepts into simpler terms and provided additional resources for me to study. Her patience and encouragement gave me the confidence I needed to keep pushing forward.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also finding the material challenging. We met several times a week to review notes, discuss difficult topics, and quiz each other. This collaborative environment made a huge difference. Explaining concepts to each other and working through problems together helped solidify my understanding. It also made studying more enjoyable and less isolating.

I also took advantage of online resources. I found educational videos and tutorials that explained genetics in a visual and engaging way. These resources complemented what I was learning in class and provided different perspectives on the material. By combining these various methods of learning, I was able to gradually improve my understanding of genetics.

The turning point came when I received the results of our unit test. I had worked hard to prepare, and my efforts paid off. I scored much higher than I had anticipated, and it was a huge boost to my confidence. This experience taught me that perseverance and a willingness to seek help are key to overcoming academic challenges.

Looking back, I am grateful for the struggle I faced in my biology class. It taught me valuable skills that I will carry with me into college and beyond. I learned the importance of asking for help and the power of collaboration. I also realized that challenges are opportunities for growth and that with determination, I can overcome obstacles.

As a Hispanic student, I am proud of my heritage and the resilience that it has instilled in me. My family has always emphasized the importance of education and hard work, and this experience reinforced those values. I am excited to continue my academic journey at Boston College, where I hope to further explore my passion for biology and contribute to the diverse community there.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming the challenge of understanding genetics in my biology class was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me the importance of perseverance, resourcefulness, and seeking help when needed. These lessons have prepared me for future challenges and have strengthened my resolve to succeed in my studies. I am eager to bring this mindset to Boston College and continue to grow both academically and personally.