My story by Nehemias

My story by Nehemias - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Nehemias Ramírez, and I am a junior at United High School. I am working hard to pursue my dream of studying electrical engineering at a university like Texas A&M or UT Austin. I have always been fascinated by how things work, from the simplest circuits to complex electronic systems, and I am eager to learn more about this field. However, my journey has not been without its challenges. One academic experience that really tested me was my sophomore year physics class.

Physics was a subject that I was excited about because it seemed to connect directly to my interests in engineering. I was eager to learn about the principles that govern electricity and magnetism, which are fundamental to electrical engineering. However, I soon found myself struggling with the material. The concepts were more abstract and complex than I had anticipated, and I had a hard time keeping up with the pace of the class. I remember feeling overwhelmed when we started learning about forces and motion. The equations and theories seemed like a different language to me.

At first, I tried to tackle the problem by studying harder on my own. I spent hours reading the textbook and watching online videos, but I still found myself confused during class. My grades started to slip, and I grew more frustrated. I realized that my usual study methods were not working, and I needed to find a new approach.

One day after class, I decided to talk to my physics teacher, Ms. Martinez. I explained my struggles to her, and she was very understanding. She suggested that I attend her after-school tutoring sessions. At first, I was hesitant because I did not want to admit that I needed extra help, but I knew I had to do something different to succeed.

Attending those tutoring sessions was a turning point for me. Ms. Martinez was patient and took the time to explain the concepts in a way that made sense to me. She used real-world examples that helped me see how physics applied to everyday life and, more importantly, to the field of engineering. I also learned the importance of asking questions when I did not understand something, instead of trying to figure it all out on my own.

In addition to tutoring, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also finding the class challenging. We met a couple of times a week to go over homework and prepare for tests. Working with my peers allowed me to see different perspectives and explanations, which was incredibly helpful. We supported each other and celebrated our improvements together, which made the learning process more enjoyable.

Gradually, I began to understand the material better. My grades improved, and I started to feel more confident in my abilities. This experience taught me the value of seeking help and collaborating with others. I learned that it is okay to struggle and that persistence, along with a willingness to adapt, is key to overcoming academic challenges.

This experience also reinforced my passion for engineering. As I learned more about physics, I could see how it laid the groundwork for understanding electrical systems. It motivated me to keep pushing forward, knowing that each challenge I overcome brings me one step closer to my goal of becoming an electrical engineer.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenge because it taught me resilience and the importance of using available resources. I am now more prepared to face future academic challenges with a proactive mindset. I know that college will bring its own set of difficulties, but I am ready to tackle them head-on, just like I did with physics.

In conclusion, my challenging experience in physics taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, seeking help, and the power of collaboration. These lessons have not only made me a better student but have also prepared me for the rigors of college and my future career in electrical engineering. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my education and to apply what I have learned to make a positive impact in the field of engineering.