Overcoming Academic Hardship by Maya

Overcoming Academic Hardship by Maya - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a college freshman at Jacksonville University, majoring in exercise science and minoring in communication sciences and disorders on a Pre-Med track, I have always been passionate about understanding the human body and helping others. However, my journey has not been without its challenges. One of the most difficult academic experiences I faced was during my senior year of high school, when I was enrolled in dual enrollment online psychology class. This class was known for its rigorous curriculum and demanding workload, and it was unlike anything I had encountered before.

From the start, I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the class, as I had to reach and teach myself the material while juggling the rest of my classes. The sheer volume of information we had to learn was overwhelming, and I often felt lost while reading the textbook. Our teacher expected us to not only memorize facts but also to understand the material and be able to apply what we learned to real-world scenarios. On top of that, the exams were notoriously difficult, requiring a deep understanding of the material and the ability to think critically under pressure.

At first, I tried to manage on my own, thinking that if I just worked harder, I would eventually catch up. I spent countless hours after school going over my notes, reading the textbook, and trying to complete assignments. Despite my efforts, my grades were not improving, and I began to doubt my abilities. It was a frustrating and discouraging time, and I felt as though I was failing at something I was truly passionate about.

Realizing that I needed to change my approach, I decided to reach out for help. I started by talking to my teacher, who was incredibly supportive and understanding. She suggested that I form a study group with some of my classmates, so we could help each other grasp the more challenging concepts. This turned out to be a game-changer for me. Working with my peers not only helped me understand the material better but also built my confidence. We would meet regularly to discuss difficult topics, quiz each other, and share study tips. This collaborative learning environment made a huge difference in my comprehension and retention of the material.

Additionally, I began to utilize online resources to supplement my learning. I found educational videos and tutorials that explained complex concepts in a more digestible way. These resources helped me see the material from different perspectives and solidified my understanding. I also started using flashcards to reinforce key terms and processes, which proved to be an effective study tool.

Another important step I took was improving my time management skills. Balancing my dual enrollment psychology class with other responsibilities, like extracurricular activities and part-time work, was challenging. I began to create a study schedule, allocating specific times for reviewing each class and sticking to it. This structure helped me stay organized and ensured that I was dedicating enough time to my studies without feeling overwhelmed.

Throughout this experience, I learned the importance of perseverance and asking for help when needed. I realized that struggling is a part of the learning process and that it is okay to seek support from others. This was a valuable lesson that I have carried with me into my college studies. Now, as I navigate my courses in kinesiology and health education, I am better equipped to handle challenges and approach them with a positive mindset.

By the end of the semester, my hard work had paid off. My grades improved significantly, and I felt a sense of accomplishment that I had not experienced before. More importantly, I had developed a deeper understanding of psychology, which laid a strong foundation for my current studies in pre-med. This challenging experience taught me resilience and the value of collaboration, both of which are essential skills in the field of healthcare.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming the challenges of my dual enrollment psychology class was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me that with determination, resourcefulness, and the support of others, I can overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. This experience has strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in healthcare, where I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of others. As I continue my education at Jacksonville University, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.