Challenging academic experience by Nisrine

Challenging academic experience by Nisrine - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Nisrine Mezzi, and I am currently a sophomore at Portland Community College. As a woman of Middle Eastern descent, I have always valued education as a pathway to opportunities and personal growth. However, my academic journey has not been without its challenges. One particular experience stands out as a turning point in my college career, testing my resilience and determination.

During my first year at Portland Community College, I enrolled in a calculus course that I initially thought would be manageable. Mathematics had always been a subject I enjoyed, and I felt confident in my abilities. However, as the semester progressed, I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace and complexity of the material. The concepts became increasingly abstract, and I began to feel overwhelmed by the volume of work required to succeed.

My initial response was to put in more hours of study, hoping that sheer effort would bridge the gap in my understanding. Despite my dedication, my grades began to slip, and I realized that my usual study techniques were not effective enough for this level of mathematics. This was a humbling realization, and it shook my confidence. I began to doubt my capabilities and wondered if I was cut out for a college education.

Determined not to give up, I decided to seek help. I reached out to my professor, who was understanding and supportive. She encouraged me to attend her office hours, where she patiently explained the concepts I was struggling with. Her guidance was invaluable, not only in helping me grasp the material but also in restoring my confidence. Additionally, she recommended that I form a study group with my classmates.

Working with peers turned out to be a game-changer. In our study group, we were able to share different perspectives and approaches to solving problems. This collaborative environment helped me see the material in a new light and made learning more interactive and engaging. We supported each other, celebrating small victories and tackling difficult topics together. This experience taught me the importance of teamwork and how much we can achieve when we pool our strengths and knowledge.

Another strategy that proved beneficial was utilizing online resources. I discovered various educational platforms that offered tutorials and practice problems, which allowed me to reinforce what I had learned in class. These resources provided me with additional examples and explanations, which were crucial in solidifying my understanding of the material.

Balancing my time was another critical aspect of overcoming this challenge. I had to learn how to prioritize my tasks and manage my schedule effectively. This meant setting specific study times, taking regular breaks to avoid burnout, and ensuring that I maintained a healthy balance between academics and personal life. By organizing my time efficiently, I was able to reduce stress and improve my focus.

Through persistence and a willingness to adapt my approach, I gradually began to see improvements in my performance. My grades started to rise, and I regained a sense of control over my academic journey. This experience taught me that challenges are not insurmountable obstacles but opportunities for growth and learning. I learned that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a step toward success.

Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the lessons it taught me. I now approach challenges with a more open mind and a proactive attitude. I have learned to embrace difficulties as part of the learning process and to view setbacks as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. This mindset has not only helped me in my calculus course but has also influenced how I handle challenges in other areas of my life.

As I continue my studies at Portland Community College, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that they will serve me well in future endeavors. I am committed to pursuing my education with determination and resilience, driven by the belief that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.

In conclusion, the calculus course that once seemed like an insurmountable hurdle became a defining moment in my academic journey. By seeking help, collaborating with peers, utilizing resources, and managing my time effectively, I was able to overcome this challenge and emerge stronger. I am proud of my progress and look forward to applying what I have learned to future academic pursuits. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.