About Me by Markea

About Me by Markea - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Markea Booker, and I am a senior citizen at Butler High School. I am excited to share an experience that has shaped my academic journey and taught me a lot about perseverance and resilience. As I prepare to major in accounting, I know that overcoming challenges is a big part of success, and I would like to tell you about how I faced and overcame a tough academic experience.

During my sophomore year, I encountered a particularly challenging experience in my Algebra II class. Math has always been a subject that I found intriguing, but Algebra II proved to be more difficult than I had anticipated. The concepts were more complex, and I struggled to keep up with the pace of the class. My grades were slipping, and I was worried that I would not be able to improve them.

At first, I felt overwhelmed and discouraged. I did not want to admit that I was having trouble, and I was hesitant to ask for help. I thought that I could figure it out on my own if I just tried harder. However, the more I tried to tackle the problems by myself, the more frustrated I became. My confidence was dwindling, and I knew I needed to change my approach.

I decided to reach out for help, which was not easy for me. I talked to my teacher and explained the difficulties I was facing. She was understanding and supportive, and she suggested that I attend after-school tutoring sessions. I was nervous about going to tutoring because I did not want my classmates to think I was struggling, but I realized that getting help was more important than what others might think.

The tutoring sessions were incredibly helpful. The smaller group setting allowed me to ask questions freely and get the individual attention I needed. I also started forming study groups with my classmates. Working together, we were able to explain concepts to each other and share different problem-solving strategies. This collaborative learning environment made a huge difference, and I began to see improvement in my understanding and my grades.

In addition to seeking help from others, I also changed how I approached studying. I started breaking down the material into smaller, more manageable parts and focused on understanding the underlying concepts rather than just memorizing formulas. I made a habit of reviewing my notes daily and practicing problems regularly, which helped reinforce what I was learning in class.

As I continued to work hard and stay committed to improving, my grades gradually improved. More importantly, I gained a sense of confidence in my ability to tackle challenging subjects. I learned that it is okay to ask for help and that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. This experience taught me the value of perseverance, collaboration, and effective study habits.

Overcoming this challenge in Algebra II has prepared me for future academic pursuits, especially as I plan to major in accounting. I know that accounting will present its own set of challenges, but I am confident that the skills and strategies I have developed will help me succeed. I have learned to approach difficult situations with a positive mindset and a willingness to seek help when needed.

This experience also helped me realize the importance of supporting others who may be facing similar challenges. I have become more empathetic and understanding, and I try to encourage my peers to seek help when they need it. I have learned that we can all benefit from working together and supporting each other in our academic journeys.

In conclusion, my challenging experience in Algebra II taught me valuable lessons that extend beyond the classroom. It showed me the importance of perseverance, seeking help, and working collaboratively with others. These lessons will continue to guide me as I pursue my academic goals and strive to make a positive impact in my community. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story, and I am excited about the future and all the possibilities that lie ahead.