by Marquetta

by Marquetta - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Marquetta Ingram, and I am currently a freshman at Daytona State College, studying funeral home services. As I reflect on my academic journey so far, I realize that one of the most challenging experiences I have faced was transitioning from high school to college. This transition was not just about adjusting to a new environment, but also about managing the increased workload and the expectations that come with higher education.

In high school, I was accustomed to a structured schedule and the support of teachers who were always available to guide me. However, when I started college, I quickly realized that I needed to be more independent. The professors were supportive, but they expected us to take responsibility for our own learning. This shift was overwhelming at first, as I struggled to balance my coursework, part-time job, and personal life.

One of the biggest challenges was managing my time effectively. In high school, my schedule was mostly set for me, but in college, I had to create my own routine. With multiple assignments due each week, it was easy to feel overwhelmed. I remember one week in particular when I had two major papers due, along with a midterm exam. I felt stressed and unsure if I could manage everything.

To overcome this, I knew I had to develop better time management skills. I started by using a planner to keep track of all my assignments and deadlines. Each Sunday, I would plan out my week, allocating specific times for studying, working on assignments, and attending classes. This helped me visualize my workload and prioritize tasks. I also set small, achievable goals for each day, which made large projects feel more manageable.

Another challenge was adapting to the different teaching styles of my professors. Some classes were lecture-heavy, while others required more hands-on participation. I found it difficult to adjust at first, especially in courses that required a lot of self-directed learning. To address this, I began attending study groups and seeking help from tutors offered by the college. Engaging with peers and asking questions in study groups not only deepened my understanding of the material but also provided a sense of community and support.

Additionally, I took advantage of the resources available on campus. The library became my second home, offering a quiet place to focus and access to a wealth of information. I also utilized the writing center to improve my writing skills, which was crucial for my major. The feedback I received from tutors helped me refine my essays and gain confidence in my abilities.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of self-advocacy. Whenever I felt uncertain about a topic or needed clarification, I made it a point to reach out to my professors during office hours. They were always willing to help and appreciated my initiative. This taught me that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a step towards growth.

Despite the initial challenges, I am proud to say that I have maintained a 3.0 GPA. This experience taught me resilience and the value of perseverance. It showed me that challenges can be opportunities for growth and that with determination and the right strategies, I can overcome obstacles.

As a Black woman in the field of funeral home services, I am aware of the unique perspectives and contributions I can bring to the profession. My academic journey has strengthened my commitment to serving my community with compassion and professionalism. I am excited about the future and the impact I can make in this field.

In conclusion, the transition from high school to college was a challenging academic experience that tested my time management skills, adaptability, and self-advocacy. By developing these skills and utilizing campus resources, I was able to overcome the obstacles I faced. This experience has not only prepared me for future academic challenges but has also inspired me to continue pursuing my passion for funeral home services. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and am eager to apply them as I continue my education at Daytona State College.