College life by Olivia

College life by Olivia - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Olivia Ziller, and I am currently a sophomore at Lone Star College System, pursuing a major in Nursing. As a student, I have faced several challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly significant. This experience not only tested my perseverance and determination but also reinforced my passion for nursing.

During my first year of college, I enrolled in Anatomy and Physiology, a course known for its intensity and complexity. I was both excited and nervous, understanding that this class was crucial for my future career in nursing. However, I soon found myself struggling to keep up with the demanding coursework and dense material. The sheer volume of information was overwhelming, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed.

The first few exams did not go as well as I had hoped. Despite my efforts, my grades did not reflect the hard work I was putting in. I realized that my usual study methods from high school were not enough for college-level courses, especially one as rigorous as Anatomy and Physiology. This realization was disheartening, and I felt a wave of self-doubt wash over me. I wondered if I was truly cut out for nursing.

Determined not to give up, I decided to change my approach. I started by reaching out to my professor for guidance. During office hours, we discussed my struggles, and she provided me with valuable advice on how to tackle the course material more effectively. She suggested breaking down the content into smaller, manageable sections and focusing on understanding the concepts rather than just memorizing facts. Her encouragement and support were instrumental in boosting my confidence.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also joined a study group with some of my classmates. This was a game-changer for me. Collaborating with peers allowed me to gain new perspectives and insights that I had not considered before. We shared resources, quizzed each other, and explained difficult concepts in simpler terms. This collaborative environment made learning more interactive and less isolating.

I also made use of online resources, such as educational videos and interactive quizzes, to reinforce my understanding of the material. These tools provided alternative explanations and visual aids that helped me grasp complex topics more easily. By diversifying my study methods, I was able to engage with the material in a way that suited my learning style.

Time management became another crucial aspect of overcoming this challenge. I created a detailed study schedule, allocating specific time slots for each topic and sticking to it diligently. This structure helped me stay organized and ensured that I was consistently reviewing the material, rather than cramming before exams.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a significant improvement in my comprehension and exam performance. The hard work and new strategies were paying off. By the end of the course, I had not only improved my grades but also gained a deeper appreciation for the subject matter. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of academic challenges.

Overcoming this challenge was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in nursing, a field that requires not only knowledge and skills but also the ability to persevere through difficult situations. The experience also highlighted the value of seeking help and collaborating with others, as well as the importance of being open to new ways of learning.

As I continue my studies in nursing, I carry the lessons I learned from this experience with me. I am more confident in my ability to tackle challenging courses and am better equipped to adapt my study strategies to meet the demands of my education. This journey has strengthened my resolve to become a compassionate and competent nurse, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience of grappling with Anatomy and Physiology taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and the power of collaboration. It was a test of my determination and passion for nursing, and overcoming it has made me a stronger student and future nurse. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow from this experience, and I am excited to continue pursuing my dreams with renewed confidence and determination.