Intro to high school by Miriam

Intro to high school by Miriam - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a rising high school senior with a passion for the arts and media, I have always been drawn to subjects that allow me to express myself creatively. However, my journey has not been without its challenges, particularly when it comes to balancing my interests in theatre, fashion, digital communications, and cosmetology with the demands of academic performance.

One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my sophomore year, when I decided to take on an advanced theatre class while also managing my other coursework. Theatre has always been a significant part of my life, and I was eager to deepen my understanding and skills. However, I quickly realized that the workload was more intense than I had anticipated.

The class required not only memorizing lines and rehearsing scenes but also understanding the technical aspects of production, such as lighting, sound, and set design. On top of that, there were essays to write about the history of theatre and analyses of different dramatic texts. Balancing all these elements with my other classes, including math and science, was overwhelming at times.

I remember one particular week when I had a major theatre project due, along with a math test and a history paper. I felt stretched thin and unsure if I could manage everything. It was a moment where I questioned my ability to succeed and whether I had taken on too much.

To overcome this challenge, I knew I needed to be strategic about my time and priorities. I started by creating a detailed schedule that broke down each task into smaller, manageable steps. I allocated specific times for studying, rehearsing, and completing assignments. This helped me stay organized and reduced the feeling of being overwhelmed by everything at once.

I also reached out for support. I talked to my theatre teacher about my struggles, and he provided valuable advice on how to approach my project more efficiently. He encouraged me to focus on the aspects of the project that I was most passionate about, which in turn made the work feel less like a chore and more like an opportunity to explore my creativity.

In addition, I formed a study group with classmates who were also in the advanced theatre class. We met regularly to rehearse together, share insights, and support each other through the challenging parts of the coursework. This collaborative environment not only improved my understanding of the material but also made the experience more enjoyable.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of time management, seeking help when needed, and the power of collaboration. I realized that while passion can drive you to take on ambitious projects, it is equally important to be practical about how to achieve your goals. This balance is something I continue to apply in all areas of my life, whether it is in my academic pursuits or my personal interests in fashion and digital media.

Moreover, this challenge taught me resilience. There were moments when I felt like giving up, but pushing through those doubts and completing the project successfully gave me a newfound confidence in my abilities. It showed me that challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones to growth and self-discovery.

As I look forward to college, I am excited to continue exploring my passions in theatre, fashion, and media at institutions like Monmouth University, Stockton University, Montclair State University, Rutgers University, or the University of California Berkeley. I believe that my experiences have prepared me well for the rigors of college life and the opportunities it presents.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience of balancing my advanced theatre class with other responsibilities taught me valuable lessons about time management, seeking support, and the importance of perseverance. These lessons have shaped me into a more determined and resourceful student, ready to tackle whatever challenges college may bring. I am eager to apply these skills in my future studies and continue to grow both academically and personally.