My struggle by Payge

My struggle by Payge - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I think about a challenging academic experience I have faced, my mind goes back to my high school years, where I struggled significantly with math. Math was always a subject that seemed to trip me up. No matter how hard I tried, I found myself staring at numbers and equations that simply did not make sense. It was frustrating and discouraging, especially when I saw my classmates grasping concepts quickly while I lagged behind. This challenge was a big deal for me because it affected my confidence and made me question my abilities.

During my junior year, things got particularly tough. I was taking Algebra II, and it felt like I was drowning in a sea of variables and formulas. My grades were slipping, and I knew I had to do something about it. I did not want this to be the reason I could not pursue my dream of studying Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in college. I understood that succeeding in math was essential, not just for my GPA, but also for the analytical skills I would need in my future career.

The turning point came when I decided to seek help. I realized that I could not tackle this challenge on my own. I approached my math teacher, Ms. Johnson, who had always been supportive and patient with her students. I explained my struggles, and she was more than willing to help. She suggested that I come to her after school for extra tutoring sessions. At first, I was hesitant because I did not want to seem like I was not trying hard enough during regular class hours, but I knew I had to put my pride aside.

Those after-school sessions with Ms. Johnson were a game-changer. She took the time to break down the concepts in a way that made sense to me. She used real-life examples and practical applications, which helped me see math as more than just numbers on a page. Slowly but surely, the fog began to lift. I started understanding the material better, and my grades improved. It was not an overnight transformation, but it was progress, and that motivated me to keep going.

In addition to the tutoring sessions, I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling. We met a couple of times a week to go over homework and prepare for tests. This group was incredibly helpful because we could learn from each other, share different perspectives, and encourage one another. It was comforting to know that I was not alone in my struggle and that others were facing similar challenges.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of seeking help and collaborating with others. I realized that asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness, but rather a step towards growth. It taught me to be proactive in my learning and to use the resources available to me. This lesson has been invaluable in my transition to college, where the workload is even more demanding.

Now, as a freshman at Winston-Salem State University, majoring in Kinesiology and Physical Therapy, I carry these lessons with me. I understand that challenges are a part of the academic journey, but they do not have to define me. I have learned to approach difficult subjects with an open mind and a willingness to seek support when needed. This mindset has helped me adjust to the rigors of college life and stay focused on my goals.

My experience with overcoming my math struggles has also fueled my passion for helping others. I hope to become a physical therapist who not only aids in physical recovery but also empowers patients to overcome their own challenges. I want to be a source of support and encouragement, much like Ms. Johnson was for me.

Furthermore, this experience taught me the value of persistence. There were times when I felt like giving up, but I learned that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles. I realized that every small step forward was a victory, and these small victories added up over time. This understanding has been crucial in my college studies, where perseverance is necessary to tackle complex subjects and long-term projects.

In addition to persistence, I also learned the importance of adaptability. As I worked through my math challenges, I discovered that I needed to adapt my learning strategies. I started using online resources, such as educational videos and practice websites, to reinforce what I learned in tutoring sessions. This adaptability has been essential in college, where I often need to adjust my study habits to fit different courses and teaching styles.

Another key takeaway from this experience was the power of a positive mindset. I realized that my attitude towards math was holding me back. Instead of viewing it as an insurmountable obstacle, I began to see it as an opportunity to grow and learn. This shift in mindset made a significant difference in how I approached not just math, but all my studies. I learned to embrace challenges as opportunities, which has been incredibly empowering.

Moreover, this journey taught me about resilience. Facing my math struggles head-on and overcoming them showed me that I am capable of handling difficult situations. This resilience has been a cornerstone of my college experience, helping me navigate the ups and downs of academic life with confidence.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming my difficulties with math taught me resilience, the value of seeking help, and the power of collaboration. These lessons have shaped me into a more confident and determined student. I am grateful for the challenges I faced because they have prepared me for the future and have reinforced my commitment to my academic and career goals. I am ready to take on new challenges, knowing that I have the tools and mindset to overcome them, just as I did with math. This experience has not only made me a better student but also a more compassionate and understanding individual, ready to support others in their own journeys.