A Push In The Right Direction by Maya

A Push In The Right Direction by Maya - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I think about a challenging academic experience I have faced, my mind goes back to my sophomore year in high school. It was a time when I was trying to balance my passion for marketing with my interest in legal studies, all while maintaining a decent GPA. The challenge was not just about managing my time but also about dealing with the pressure of wanting to excel in both fields, especially since my GPA was hovering around 3.4, and I wanted to improve it.

The most challenging part was my Advanced Placement (AP) U.S. History class. History had never been my strongest subject, and the course was notorious for its heavy reading load and complex essays. I remember feeling overwhelmed during the first few weeks. The amount of information I had to retain was daunting, and my first few test scores were not as high as I hoped they would be. It was disheartening, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the class.

However, I knew I could not give up. I decided to tackle this challenge head-on by changing my approach to studying. First, I set up a more structured study schedule. I dedicated specific time slots each day to focus solely on AP U.S. History, ensuring that I was consistent with my efforts. I also began to break down the material into smaller, more manageable sections, which made it less intimidating and easier to digest.

I decided to take the physical textbook and go page by page, highlighting concepts or ideas that I struggled to understand. This way, I could really focus on those areas before prepping for a test. I used different colors to organize my thoughts: in one color, I highlighted concepts I found challenging, and in another, I marked key ideas and thoughts I felt I had mastered. This method really helped me identify where I needed to spend more time and where I was confident.

Another key step was seeking help from others. I started attending study groups with classmates who were also taking the course. These sessions were incredibly helpful because they allowed us to discuss the material and share different perspectives. Sometimes, explaining a concept to someone else helped me understand it better myself. I also made it a point to visit my teacher during office hours. She was always willing to clarify any doubts I had and offered valuable tips on how to improve my essay writing skills.

In addition, I began utilizing online resources, such as educational videos and history podcasts, which made learning more engaging and dynamic. These resources provided different viewpoints and explanations that helped solidify my understanding of the historical events we were studying. I discovered that learning could be enjoyable when I found the right tools and methods that worked for me.

As I continued to put in the effort, I began to see improvements. My test scores gradually increased, and I felt more confident in my ability to tackle challenging essays. The experience taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability. I learned that it is okay to struggle at first, but what matters is how you respond to those struggles. I also realized the value of reaching out for support and utilizing available resources, whether it is friends, teachers, or online tools.

This challenging experience not only helped me improve my grades in AP U.S. History but also taught me skills that I now apply to other areas of my academic life. Whether it is marketing or legal studies, I approach each subject with the same determination and willingness to seek help when needed. I have learned to manage my time more effectively, prioritize tasks, and remain open to new ways of learning.

As I prepare to enter college, I am excited to continue exploring my interests in marketing and legal studies. I know there will be more challenges ahead, but I feel equipped to handle them because of the lessons I learned during my sophomore year. I am grateful for the experience because it showed me that I am capable of overcoming obstacles and achieving my goals with hard work and persistence.

In conclusion, my journey through AP U.S. History was a defining moment in my academic life. It was a challenge that pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to develop new strategies for success. Overcoming this challenge has given me confidence in my abilities and has prepared me for the rigorous academic experiences I will face in college. I am ready to take on these challenges with the same resilience and determination, knowing that each obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow.