My journey by Michelle

My journey by Michelle - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been filled with many learning experiences, but one of the most challenging academic hurdles I faced was during my junior year at New Mexico State University . As a Biology major, I have always been fascinated by the intricacies of life and the natural world. However, this passion was put to the test when I enrolled in Organic Chemistry, a course notorious for its difficulty and complexity.

From the outset, Organic Chemistry was overwhelming. The subject matter was dense, and the pace of the class was relentless. I found myself struggling to keep up with the lectures, and the concepts seemed to slip through my fingers no matter how much I studied. My confidence in my academic abilities began to waver, and I started to doubt whether I had what it takes to succeed in my chosen field.

The first exam was a wake-up call. Despite my efforts, I did not perform as well as I had hoped. This was a blow to my self-esteem, and I knew that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to improve. I realized that simply reading the textbook and attending lectures was not enough; I needed to actively engage with the material in a way that worked for me.

I decided to seek help, which was not easy at first. It can be difficult to admit when you are struggling, but I knew that I could not overcome this challenge alone. I started attending tutoring sessions offered by the university and formed a study group with some of my classmates. This collaborative approach allowed me to gain new perspectives and insights into the material, and the support from my peers was invaluable.

In addition to seeking external help, I also had to make changes to my study habits. I began to break down the material into smaller, more manageable sections and focused on understanding the underlying principles rather than just memorizing formulas. I also made use of online resources, such as video tutorials and practice problems, which helped reinforce my understanding of the concepts.

One of the key lessons I learned during this time was the importance of persistence and resilience. There were moments when I felt like giving up, but I reminded myself of my passion for biology and my long-term goals. I realized that setbacks are a natural part of the learning process and that they do not define my abilities or potential.

As the semester progressed, I started to see improvements in my performance. My grades gradually improved, and I gained a deeper understanding of the subject. This experience taught me that challenges can be overcome with determination, hard work, and the willingness to seek help and adapt.

Beyond academics, this experience also taught me valuable life skills. I learned the importance of time management and prioritizing tasks, as balancing my coursework with other responsibilities was crucial. I also developed better problem-solving skills, which have been beneficial in other areas of my life.

Reflecting on this challenging academic experience, I am grateful for the lessons it taught me. It reinforced my passion for biology and strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in the field. I am now more confident in my abilities and better equipped to handle future challenges, both academically and personally.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming the challenge of Organic Chemistry has been a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of seeking help, and the power of a positive mindset. As I continue my studies at New Mexico State University , I carry these lessons with me, knowing that they will serve me well in my future endeavors.