My Almost B by Paige

My Almost B by Paige - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As I reflect on my academic journey, one challenging experience stands out: my struggle with chemistry during my junior year of high school. Chemistry is a subject that forms the foundation for my intended career path in pre-dental studies, and it was crucial for me to grasp the concepts thoroughly. However, the complexity of balancing equations and understanding chemical reactions initially seemed like an insurmountable obstacle.

At the beginning of the semester, I was enthusiastic and ready to dive into the world of atoms and molecules. But as the weeks progressed, I found myself struggling with the material. My grades on quizzes and tests were not what I had hoped for, and I felt a growing sense of frustration. I realized that my usual study methods were not effective for this subject. The turning point came after a particularly difficult exam where I scored much lower than I expected. It was a wake-up call that I needed to change my approach.

To tackle this challenge, I started by seeking help from my chemistry teacher. I approached her after class and explained my difficulties. She was incredibly supportive and offered to help me during lunch hours and after school. Her willingness to provide extra guidance was the first step towards overcoming my struggles. We worked together to identify the specific areas where I was having trouble, and she helped me develop a better understanding of the concepts.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met a couple of times a week to review notes, work through practice problems, and quiz each other. This collaborative approach was beneficial because it allowed us to explain concepts to one another, often in simpler terms than those found in the textbook. Teaching someone else is a powerful way to reinforce your own understanding, and this peer interaction helped me gain confidence in my abilities.

I also turned to online resources, such as educational videos and interactive websites, which offered different perspectives and explanations of the material. These resources provided me with additional practice and helped me visualize complex processes. By using a combination of these tools, I was able to grasp the material more effectively.

Time management became another crucial aspect of overcoming my difficulties in chemistry. I created a detailed study schedule that allocated specific times for reviewing chemistry topics. This disciplined approach ensured that I dedicated enough time to understand the material without feeling overwhelmed. I learned to break down the content into manageable sections, which made studying less daunting and more productive.

Through perseverance and the support of my teacher and peers, I gradually improved my performance in chemistry. By the end of the semester, I had not only raised my grade significantly but also developed a genuine interest in the subject. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help, collaborating with others, and being open to different learning strategies. It also reinforced my determination to pursue a career in the medical field, where chemistry plays a vital role.

Overcoming this academic challenge was a pivotal moment in my high school career. It showed me that setbacks are opportunities for growth and that resilience and adaptability are key to success. This lesson will undoubtedly serve me well as I transition to college and face new challenges in my pre-dental studies.

As I prepare to attend the University of Arkansas or Mississippi State University, I am eager to apply the skills and strategies I have developed to my future coursework. I understand that the path to becoming a dentist will be rigorous, but I am confident that I have the tools to succeed. The experience of overcoming my struggles in chemistry has strengthened my resolve and commitment to my academic and career goals.

In conclusion, my journey through chemistry was not just about improving my grades; it was about learning how to learn. It was about understanding that challenges are a natural part of any educational journey and that overcoming them requires effort, support, and a willingness to adapt. I am grateful for the experience because it has prepared me to face future challenges with confidence and determination.