Essay p by Matthew

Essay p by Matthew - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school years, I have faced several academic challenges, but one stands out as a significant turning point in my journey: my struggle with calculus. As a high school senior with aspirations of studying electrical and computer engineering at New York Institute of Technology or Manhattan College, I knew that mastering calculus was essential for my future. However, the subject did not come easily to me, and at first, I found myself overwhelmed.

During my junior year, I enrolled in AP Calculus, excited yet anxious about the challenge ahead. The first few weeks were tough. I struggled to grasp the concepts, and my test scores reflected my confusion. For someone who had always done reasonably well in math, this was a blow to my confidence. I knew I had to turn things around if I wanted to pursue my dream of becoming an engineer.

The first step I took was to acknowledge that I needed help. I realized that trying to tackle the subject on my own was not working. I started attending after-school tutoring sessions that my school offered. These sessions were incredibly helpful because they allowed me to ask questions in a smaller setting and receive more personalized attention. My tutor, a patient and knowledgeable teacher, helped me break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. This approach made the material less intimidating and more approachable.

In addition to tutoring, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also taking AP Calculus. We met twice a week to review homework, discuss difficult topics, and quiz each other before tests. This collaborative environment was beneficial because it provided a support system and allowed us to learn from each other’s strengths. Sometimes, a classmate could explain a concept in a way that made more sense to me than the textbook or teacher’s explanation.

Outside of school, I took advantage of online resources. Websites like Khan Academy and YouTube became my go-to tools for extra practice and clarification. I would watch videos that explained concepts I struggled with until I felt comfortable with the material. The flexibility of these resources allowed me to learn at my own pace and revisit topics as needed.

Despite these efforts, there were times I felt discouraged. There were moments when it seemed like no matter how hard I tried, I was not making progress. During these times, I reminded myself of my long-term goals and the importance of perseverance. I kept pushing forward, knowing that overcoming this challenge would not only help me academically but also prepare me for the rigors of college-level engineering courses.

Gradually, my hard work began to pay off. My test scores improved, and I started to feel more confident in my abilities. By the end of the semester, I had not only passed the class but had developed a genuine interest in calculus and its applications in engineering. This experience taught me the value of persistence and the importance of seeking help when needed.

Reflecting on this challenge, I realize that it was a pivotal experience in my academic journey. It taught me that struggling with a subject does not mean I am incapable; it simply means I need to find the right strategies and resources to succeed. This lesson has prepared me for future challenges I may face in college and beyond.

As I look forward to studying electrical and computer engineering, I am grateful for the lessons I learned from my calculus experience. It has equipped me with the skills and mindset necessary to tackle difficult problems and has reinforced my passion for engineering. I am eager to apply these lessons at New York Institute of Technology or Manhattan College, where I can continue to grow and pursue my goals.

In conclusion, my struggle with calculus was a challenging academic experience that taught me resilience, the importance of collaboration, and the value of seeking help. Overcoming this challenge has strengthened my determination to pursue a career in engineering and has prepared me for the academic challenges that lie ahead in college. I am excited about the future and ready to take on new challenges with the same determination and perseverance.