Past and Future by Olivia

Past and Future by Olivia - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been filled with various academic challenges, but one particular experience stands out as a pivotal moment in my education. As a sophomore at Grand Valley State University, majoring in Criminal Justice, I faced a daunting challenge during my first year that tested my resilience and determination.

When I first started college, I was excited but also anxious about the workload and the expectations. High school had been manageable, but I knew college would be a different ballgame. My high school GPA was 3.2, which was decent, but I realized quickly that college required a new level of commitment and effort.

One of the most challenging courses I encountered was Introduction to Criminal Justice. It was a foundational course, and I was eager to learn, but I underestimated the depth and breadth of the material. The lectures were fast-paced, and the reading assignments were extensive. I found myself struggling to keep up with the class discussions and the assignments. The first exam was a wake-up call; despite studying hard, I did not perform as well as I had hoped. It was disheartening, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in my chosen field.

Feeling overwhelmed, I knew I had to make some changes. The first step was to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours to discuss my difficulties. This was not easy for me, as I had always been somewhat shy about asking for help. However, my professor was understanding and offered valuable advice on how to approach the course material more effectively. He suggested breaking down the readings into manageable sections and focusing on key concepts rather than trying to memorize everything.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also decided to form a study group with a few classmates. This turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. Working with others allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material and helped me to clarify concepts I found confusing. We met regularly to review notes, discuss readings, and quiz each other. This collaborative approach not only improved my understanding of the subject but also made studying a more enjoyable experience.

Time management was another area where I needed improvement. Balancing coursework, part-time work, and personal commitments was challenging. I started using a planner to organize my schedule, prioritizing tasks and setting specific goals for each study session. This helped me to stay on track and reduce the stress of last-minute cramming.

As I implemented these changes, I noticed a gradual improvement in my performance. By the time the second exam came around, I felt more prepared and confident. My hard work paid off, and I achieved a much better grade. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability. It showed me that challenges, while daunting, are opportunities for growth and learning.

Moreover, this challenge reinforced my passion for Criminal Justice. Despite the initial struggles, I realized that I was genuinely interested in the subject and motivated to overcome the obstacles. The experience also highlighted the importance of seeking support and collaborating with others, skills that are invaluable in both academic and professional settings.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced during that first year. They pushed me to develop better study habits, improve my time management skills, and become more proactive in seeking help. These skills have continued to serve me well as I progress in my studies and prepare for a future career in Criminal Justice.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced during my first year at Grand Valley State University was a turning point in my college journey. It taught me that resilience and determination are key to overcoming obstacles. By seeking help, collaborating with peers, and managing my time effectively, I was able to turn a difficult situation into a valuable learning experience. This challenge not only strengthened my academic skills but also reinforced my commitment to my chosen field. I am confident that the lessons I learned will continue to guide me as I pursue my goals and contribute positively to the field of Criminal Justice.