Struggles with Calculus by Mikael

Struggles with Calculus by Mikael - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Mikael Aboagye, and I am currently a junior in high school with a strong interest in pursuing a degree in computer science or programming. As I look forward to furthering my education at institutions like Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, or Digipen Institute of Technology, I reflect on the challenges I have faced that have shaped my academic journey. One such challenge was my struggle with Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus, which tested my perseverance and problem-solving skills.

Math has always been a subject I enjoyed, but when I first started AP Calculus, I quickly realized that it was on a whole different level. The concepts were more abstract, and the pace of the class was much faster than any other math course I had taken before. During the first few weeks, I found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of new material. Limits, derivatives, and integrals were terms I had heard of, but understanding them in depth was another story.

The first major challenge came with our initial exam. Despite studying hard, I did not perform well. The results were disheartening, and I began to doubt my abilities. I knew that calculus was essential for my future studies in computer science, so giving up was not an option. I needed a plan to overcome this hurdle.

First, I reassessed my study habits. I realized that simply reading the textbook and completing homework assignments was not enough. I needed to engage with the material more actively. To do this, I started attending after-school study sessions and formed a study group with a few classmates. Working with peers allowed me to see different perspectives on solving problems and filled in gaps in my understanding.

Additionally, I sought extra help from my teacher. I scheduled regular meetings during office hours to go over concepts I found particularly challenging. These sessions were invaluable as they provided me with personalized guidance and helped me build a stronger foundation in calculus.

Another strategy I employed was making use of online resources. Websites like Khan Academy and YouTube offered tutorials that broke down complex topics into manageable pieces. Watching these videos allowed me to learn at my own pace and revisit difficult concepts as many times as needed.

Over time, my hard work began to pay off. I started to see improvement in my understanding and performance. The concepts that once seemed impossible started to make sense. I learned to appreciate the beauty of calculus and how it applies to real-world problems, especially in fields like computer science.

This experience taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. It showed me that challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities to grow and learn. By changing my approach and seeking help when necessary, I was able to overcome the difficulties I faced in AP Calculus.

I also learned that collaboration and communication are key components of success. Working with my classmates and teacher not only helped me academically but also taught me the value of teamwork. These skills will undoubtedly be essential as I pursue a career in computer science, where working with others to solve complex problems is a daily occurrence.

In conclusion, my struggle with AP Calculus was a defining moment in my academic journey. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. The experience reinforced my passion for learning and my determination to succeed. As I prepare for college, I carry with me the lessons I learned from this challenge, ready to face whatever comes my way with confidence and perseverance. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am committed to using my skills and experiences to contribute to the field of computer science.