Essay Submission by Mariah

Essay Submission by Mariah - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Mariah Delgado, and I am a senior at Florida Memorial University, double majoring in Theatre/Performing Arts and Psychology. Throughout my college journey, I have encountered many challenges, but one particular academic experience stands out as both the most daunting and the most transformative.

During my sophomore year, I faced a significant challenge in my Psychology Research Methods course. The course was known for its rigorous demands, and it required a strong grasp of statistical analysis and research design. As someone who had always been more comfortable with the creative and expressive aspects of my Theatre major, this class felt like it was in a different world. I had never been particularly confident in my math skills, and the prospect of conducting complex statistical analyses was intimidating.

The course required us to design and execute a full-scale research project, complete with data collection, statistical analysis, and a comprehensive research paper. At first, I felt overwhelmed by the technical aspects of the project. I remember staring at the syllabus, feeling a knot in my stomach as I tried to wrap my head around terms like "ANOVA" and "regression analysis." I knew that if I wanted to succeed, I had to confront my fears and tackle my weaknesses head-on.

To overcome this challenge, I decided to take a proactive approach. I began by seeking help from my professor, who was incredibly supportive and understanding. She encouraged me to attend office hours regularly, where she patiently explained complex concepts and guided me through the intricacies of statistical software. Her encouragement gave me the confidence to believe that I could master the material.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met weekly to discuss our projects, share resources, and help each other with difficult concepts. This collaborative environment was invaluable, as it provided a space where I could ask questions without fear of judgment and learn from my peers. We each brought different strengths to the table, and by working together, we were able to deepen our understanding of the material.

I also made use of online resources and tutorials to supplement my learning. Websites like Khan Academy and YouTube offered clear and concise explanations of statistical concepts, which helped me build a solid foundation. I practiced using statistical software by working on sample datasets, gradually becoming more comfortable with running analyses and interpreting results.

As the semester progressed, I began to notice a shift in my mindset. What initially seemed like an insurmountable challenge slowly transformed into an opportunity for growth. I realized that my background in Theatre and Performing Arts had actually equipped me with skills that were beneficial in this context. My experience in theatre had taught me the importance of attention to detail, creativity in problem-solving, and perseverance in the face of challenges. I applied these skills to my research project, approaching it with the same dedication and passion that I brought to my performances.

By the end of the semester, I had not only completed my research project but had also gained a newfound appreciation for the field of psychology. I received positive feedback from my professor, who commended my growth and resilience throughout the course. More importantly, I had developed a deeper understanding of research methods and a confidence in my ability to tackle challenging tasks.

This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, seeking help, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. It reinforced my belief that with determination and the right support, I could overcome any obstacle. It also highlighted the value of interdisciplinary learning, as I was able to draw on skills from both of my majors to succeed.

As I continue my studies and prepare for my future career, I carry with me the lessons I learned during that challenging semester. I am grateful for the experience, as it pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both academically and personally. I am now more confident in my ability to navigate complex situations and more open to embracing new challenges.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in my Psychology Research Methods course was a pivotal moment in my college journey. It taught me resilience, the value of collaboration, and the power of a growth mindset. These lessons have not only helped me succeed academically but have also prepared me for the challenges I will face in the future. I am excited to continue my journey, armed with the knowledge and skills I have gained, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story.