An Academic Challenge I Overcame by Michaela

An Academic Challenge I Overcame by Michaela - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Michaela Murray, and I am currently a freshman at Valencia Community College, where I am majoring in Management and Marketing. As a first-time college student, I have encountered several challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly significant in shaping my approach to learning and personal growth.

In high school, I struggled with maintaining a strong GPA. My final GPA was a 2.9, which, while passing, did not reflect my true potential or the effort I knew I could put into my studies. The challenge was not due to a lack of interest or ability, but rather a combination of factors including a lack of effective study habits, time management skills, and confidence in my academic abilities. This experience left me feeling uncertain about my future academic pursuits and concerned about my ability to succeed in college.

When I transitioned to college, I knew I had to face these challenges head-on. The first semester at Valencia Community College was a turning point for me. I realized that college was a fresh start, an opportunity to redefine my academic journey and prove to myself that I could excel in my studies.

One of the first steps I took was seeking support and resources available on campus. I reached out to academic advisors who helped me understand the importance of setting realistic goals and creating a structured plan to achieve them. They encouraged me to take advantage of tutoring services and workshops focused on study skills and time management. These resources were invaluable in helping me develop a more organized approach to my coursework.

I also made a conscious effort to improve my study habits. In high school, I often left assignments until the last minute, which resulted in unnecessary stress and subpar work. In college, I learned to break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable parts and to create a schedule that allowed me to work consistently over time. This approach not only reduced my stress levels but also improved the quality of my work.

Time management was another area where I needed to improve. Balancing classes, assignments, and personal responsibilities was overwhelming at first. I started using a planner to keep track of deadlines and prioritize tasks. By setting aside specific times for studying and sticking to them, I found that I could manage my workload more effectively and still have time for other activities.

Perhaps the most significant change was in my mindset. I learned to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. This shift in perspective helped me build resilience and confidence in my abilities. I began to participate more actively in class discussions and seek feedback from professors, which further enhanced my learning experience.

Throughout this journey, I discovered the importance of perseverance and self-belief. There were times when I doubted myself, but I reminded myself of my goals and the progress I had made. I also leaned on a support network of friends and family who encouraged me to keep pushing forward.

By the end of my first semester, I saw a noticeable improvement in my academic performance. My grades reflected the effort and dedication I had put into overcoming my previous challenges. While the journey was not easy, it taught me valuable lessons about discipline, determination, and the power of a positive mindset.

This challenging academic experience has not only prepared me for future coursework but has also reinforced my passion for my chosen fields of Management and Marketing. I am excited to continue building on the skills I have developed and to apply them to real-world scenarios in my future career.

Overall, the challenges I faced have made me a stronger and more resilient student. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow through these experiences, and I am committed to continuing to strive for excellence in my academic pursuits. As I move forward, I am confident that the lessons I have learned will serve me well in both my personal and professional life.