Challenging Academic Experiences by Mauricio

Challenging Academic Experiences by Mauricio - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My first semester at New Mexico State University - Dona Ana College was a whirlwind of new experiences and challenges. As a first-time college student majoring in Automotive, I was excited to dive into my studies and learn everything there was to know about cars. However, I quickly realized that college was a different ballgame compared to high school. One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my introductory automotive class. This class was crucial for my major, and I wanted to do well, but it was not as easy as I had hoped.

In high school, I managed to get by with a 2.7 GPA, but college required a different level of dedication and understanding. The course was packed with technical knowledge about engines, electrical systems, and diagnostics—stuff that was completely new to me. The first few weeks were overwhelming, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the lectures and the complexity of the material. My grades on the first few quizzes reflected this struggle, and I began to worry about my ability to succeed in my chosen field.

The turning point came after I received a particularly low score on a mid-term exam. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to improve. First, I acknowledged that I needed help. I reached out to my professor, who was supportive and offered to meet with me during office hours. These sessions were incredibly helpful because they allowed me to ask questions and clarify concepts that I did not understand during the lectures.

Additionally, I formed a study group with a few classmates. Working with others helped me see different perspectives and understand the material better. We would meet regularly, review class notes, and quiz each other. This collaborative approach not only improved my understanding but also made studying more enjoyable.

I also took advantage of online resources and tutorials. There are so many videos and forums dedicated to automotive topics, and they became an invaluable tool for me. Watching videos of engines being taken apart and put back together helped me visualize what I was learning in class. This hands-on approach to learning suited me well and complemented the theoretical knowledge I was gaining.

Time management was another area I needed to improve. In high school, I did not have to manage my time as strictly, but college required me to be more disciplined. I started using a planner to organize my schedule, setting aside specific times for studying, attending classes, and relaxing. This structure helped me balance my workload and reduce stress.

By the end of the semester, my efforts began to pay off. My grades improved, and I felt more confident in my abilities. I ended the semester with a 2.9 GPA, which was a significant improvement and a testament to the hard work I put in. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help, collaborating with others, and managing my time effectively.

Overcoming this academic challenge was not easy, but it was a valuable learning experience. It taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I learned that it is okay to struggle and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. This mindset will serve me well as I continue my studies in automotive and beyond.

I am proud of how far I have come, and I am motivated to keep improving. My passion for automotive drives me to learn more and push through any challenges that come my way. I am determined to succeed in my field and make a positive impact in the automotive industry.

Winning the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship would be a tremendous help in achieving my goals. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and less on financial worries. I am committed to making the most of my college education and using it to build a successful career. Thank you for considering my application.