College Calculus by Mitchell

College Calculus by Mitchell - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a freshman at the University of Kentucky, majoring in Finance and Business Administration, I have already encountered a few academic challenges. However, one particular experience stands out as a pivotal moment in my college journey. It taught me resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed, and it has shaped my approach to learning in ways that I had not anticipated.

During my first semester, I enrolled in an introductory calculus course. Mathematics had always been a subject I excelled in during high school, as reflected by my 3.9 GPA, but college-level calculus proved to be a different beast altogether. The pace was swift, the concepts were abstract, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the material. It was a humbling experience, as I had always prided myself on my academic abilities and had never faced such a steep learning curve before.

The first few weeks were particularly tough. Despite attending all the lectures and diligently taking notes, I felt lost. The problem sets were challenging, and I often spent hours on a single problem, only to arrive at an incorrect solution. As each class passed, my anxiety grew, and I began to doubt my capabilities. I worried about how this would affect my overall academic performance and my future in the business field, where quantitative skills are crucial.

Realizing that I could not tackle this challenge alone, I decided to take proactive steps. First, I reached out to my professor during office hours. This was a significant step for me, as I had always been hesitant to ask for help, fearing it might be perceived as a weakness. However, my professor was incredibly supportive and patient. He helped clarify complex topics and provided additional resources to aid my understanding. This interaction made me realize that professors are there to help and that they appreciate students who take the initiative to seek assistance.

Next, I joined a study group with some classmates who were also struggling with the course. This collaborative environment was beneficial as we could share different perspectives and approaches to solving problems. It was reassuring to know that I was not alone in my struggles, and together, we tackled the coursework more effectively. The study group became a source of motivation and camaraderie, and we celebrated each other's successes, no matter how small.

Additionally, I made use of the university's tutoring services. The tutors were fellow students who had successfully completed the course, and their insights were invaluable. They offered tips on how to approach the problems and manage my study time more efficiently. This support network helped me regain my confidence and improve my problem-solving skills. I learned that seeking help from peers can be just as beneficial as consulting with professors.

I also adopted new study strategies. I began to review lecture notes daily instead of cramming before exams, and I practiced problems regularly to reinforce my understanding. I learned to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts, which made them less intimidating. This methodical approach gradually improved my performance in the class, and I started to see calculus not as an insurmountable obstacle but as a series of challenges that I could overcome with the right mindset and effort.

Through persistence and by utilizing available resources, I was able to overcome the challenges of calculus. By the end of the semester, I had not only passed the course but had also developed a deeper appreciation for the subject. This experience taught me that facing academic challenges head-on, rather than avoiding them, leads to personal growth and success. It also reinforced the idea that learning is a continuous process and that setbacks are opportunities for growth.

This challenging experience also reinforced the importance of adaptability and resilience, qualities that are essential in both academics and the business world. As I continue my studies in Finance and Business Administration, I am more prepared to handle the complexities of my coursework and future career challenges. I have learned that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a step towards achieving one's goals. This mindset will undoubtedly serve me well as I navigate the ever-changing landscape of the business world.

In conclusion, the struggle with calculus was a defining moment in my academic journey. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and the power of collaboration. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well throughout my college career and beyond. I am grateful for the support I received and proud of the progress I made. This experience has cemented my belief that with determination and the right resources, any challenge can be overcome. It has also inspired me to help others who might be facing similar challenges, as I now understand the impact of support and encouragement.