Essay by Misi

Essay by Misi - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been filled with many challenges, but one of the most significant academic experiences I have faced was during my sophomore year at Brigham Young University. As a Sociology major, I have always been fascinated by the intricate dynamics of society and how different factors influence human behavior and social structures. However, the course that challenged me the most was "Quantitative Research Methods in Sociology."

As someone who has always been more inclined towards qualitative analysis, the idea of diving deep into statistics and data analysis was intimidating. The course required us to not only understand complex statistical concepts but also to apply them to real-world data sets. In the beginning, I struggled to grasp the mathematical components and felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information I needed to process.

The first few weeks were particularly tough. I remember sitting in class, trying to make sense of terms like "regression analysis" and "standard deviation," which felt like a foreign language to me. My initial attempts at assignments were met with low scores, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the course. It was a humbling experience, as I had always considered myself a diligent student.

However, I was determined not to let this challenge defeat me. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. The first step I took was to seek help. I started attending office hours regularly, where I would ask questions and seek clarification on topics I found confusing. My professor was incredibly supportive and patient, which made a big difference. I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also finding the course challenging. Together, we would meet several times a week to review lecture notes, work on problem sets, and discuss difficult concepts. This collaborative environment allowed us to learn from each other and provided a sense of camaraderie that made the learning process more enjoyable.

In addition to seeking help from others, I dedicated extra time to practicing the material on my own. I found online resources and tutorials that explained statistical concepts in simpler terms, which helped reinforce what I was learning in class. I would spend evenings working through practice problems, gradually building my confidence. It was a slow process, but I began to see improvements in my understanding and my grades.

One of the turning points came when we had a major project that required us to conduct our own research study. We had to collect data, analyze it using the statistical methods we had learned, and present our findings. Initially, the thought of this project was daunting, but I decided to focus on a topic that genuinely interested me: the impact of cultural identity on academic performance among Pacific Islander students. This personal connection to the subject matter motivated me to work harder and apply myself fully.

As I worked through the project, I realized that the skills I had been developing were finally coming together. I was able to apply the statistical methods I had learned to analyze the data effectively, and I gained a deeper appreciation for how quantitative research can complement qualitative insights. By the end of the project, I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride in having overcome the challenges I faced.

Reflecting on this experience, I learned that perseverance and a willingness to seek help are crucial when faced with academic challenges. I also discovered the importance of finding personal relevance in what I am studying, as it can provide the motivation needed to push through difficult times. This experience not only improved my quantitative skills but also strengthened my overall academic resilience.

As I continue my studies at BYU, I carry these lessons with me. I am now more confident in my ability to tackle challenging subjects and more open to seeking support when needed. This experience has also reinforced my passion for sociology and my commitment to understanding and addressing social issues. I am grateful for the challenges I faced, as they have made me a stronger student and, I believe, a better sociologist in the making.