Academic challenges by Nekisha

Academic challenges by Nekisha - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been filled with many challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly challenging and transformative. As a nursing major at San Antonio College, I have always been passionate about helping others and making a difference in people’s lives. However, the path to becoming a nurse is not an easy one, and I encountered a significant hurdle during my sophomore year that tested my resolve and determination.

The challenge began when I enrolled in Anatomy and Physiology, a critical course for my major that is known for its rigorous content and demanding workload. I was excited to dive into the subject, knowing it would provide a strong foundation for my future career. However, as the semester progressed, I found myself struggling to keep up with the volume of material and the complexity of the concepts. The lectures were fast-paced, and the exams required not just memorization, but a deep understanding of how the human body functions.

Despite my best efforts, my grades in the course were not where I wanted them to be. I felt overwhelmed and began to doubt my abilities. I knew that succeeding in this class was crucial for my future as a nurse, and I was determined not to let this challenge deter me from my goals. I realized I needed to change my approach and find new strategies to overcome this obstacle.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor, who was incredibly supportive and provided me with valuable advice on how to better approach the material. She encouraged me to attend her office hours regularly, where I could ask questions and review difficult concepts in a one-on-one setting. This personalized attention helped me gain clarity on topics I had previously found confusing.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met several times a week to review lecture notes, discuss challenging topics, and quiz each other in preparation for exams. This collaborative learning environment allowed me to gain new perspectives and insights from my peers, which deepened my understanding of the material. It was comforting to know that I was not alone in my struggles, and together, we motivated each other to persevere.

Furthermore, I realized that I needed to improve my study habits and time management skills. I began to create a detailed study schedule, allocating specific time blocks each day dedicated solely to reviewing Anatomy and Physiology. I broke down the material into manageable sections and set small, achievable goals for each study session. This approach helped me stay organized and reduced the feeling of being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information.

I also made use of additional resources, such as online tutorials and educational videos, which provided alternative explanations and visual aids that complemented my learning style. These resources were invaluable in helping me grasp complex concepts and retain information more effectively.

Through these efforts, I gradually saw improvement in my understanding of the material and my performance on exams. I learned the importance of persistence and adaptability in the face of academic challenges. This experience taught me that it is okay to ask for help and that collaboration and resourcefulness are key components of success.

By the end of the semester, I had not only passed the course but had gained a newfound confidence in my abilities. Overcoming this challenge reinforced my commitment to my chosen field and strengthened my determination to succeed as a nursing student. It reminded me of the importance of resilience and the power of a positive mindset.

This challenging academic experience was a pivotal moment in my college journey. It taught me valuable lessons that extend beyond the classroom and will undoubtedly serve me well in my future career as a nurse. I am grateful for the support of my professor and peers, who played a crucial role in helping me overcome this obstacle. As I continue my studies at San Antonio College, I am more motivated than ever to pursue my passion for nursing and to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming this academic challenge has been a defining experience for me. It has shaped me into a more resilient and resourceful student, ready to tackle the demands of the nursing profession. I am proud of the progress I have made and am excited to continue my journey, knowing that I have the skills and determination to overcome any obstacles that come my way.