Overcoming by Rasheem

Overcoming by Rasheem - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been filled with both achievements and challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly challenging. As an Economics major at SUNY at Stony Brook, I have encountered my fair share of difficult courses, but none tested my resolve and determination quite like the advanced econometrics class I took during my junior year.

Econometrics is a subject that combines economics, mathematics, and statistics to analyze economic data. It is a crucial part of economics, and mastering it is essential for anyone aspiring to work in the field. However, the complexity of econometrics often makes it a daunting subject for many students, myself included.

From the start of the semester, I was aware that the course would be demanding. The professor had a reputation for being rigorous, and the syllabus was filled with complex topics that required a deep understanding of both theory and application. As the weeks went by, I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the class. The mathematical models and statistical techniques were more intricate than anything I had encountered before, and I often felt lost during lectures.

My struggles were reflected in my grades. After receiving a disappointing score on the first midterm, I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed in the course. I knew that simply attending lectures and doing the assignments was not enough; I needed to actively engage with the material and seek help when needed.

The first step I took was to reach out to my professor during office hours. Initially, I was hesitant, fearing that my questions might seem trivial or that I would be judged for not understanding the material. However, my professor was supportive and patient, taking the time to explain concepts in a way that made them more accessible. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help and not being afraid to ask questions.

In addition to attending office hours, I formed a study group with a few classmates. This turned out to be one of the most effective strategies for overcoming the challenges I faced in the course. Working with my peers allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material and provided a supportive environment where we could discuss and solve problems together. We would meet regularly to review lecture notes, work on problem sets, and prepare for exams. The collaborative nature of the study group helped me to better understand the concepts and improved my confidence in the subject.

I also made use of online resources to supplement my learning. There are numerous websites and videos dedicated to explaining econometric concepts, and I found these to be incredibly helpful. They provided additional explanations and examples that reinforced what I was learning in class. By combining these resources with my professor's guidance and the support of my study group, I was able to gradually improve my understanding of the material.

Despite my initial struggles, I persevered and managed to pass the course. While my final grade was not as high as I had hoped, I was proud of the progress I had made and the effort I had put in to overcome the challenges. This experience taught me several valuable lessons that have shaped my approach to academics and life in general.

Firstly, I learned the importance of persistence and resilience. Challenges are an inevitable part of any journey, but it is how we respond to them that defines our success. By not giving up and continuously seeking ways to improve, I was able to overcome a difficult situation.

Secondly, I realized the value of seeking help and collaborating with others. No one has all the answers, and there is no shame in admitting that you need assistance. By reaching out to my professor and working with my peers, I was able to gain new insights and perspectives that enriched my learning experience.

Lastly, I understood that learning is not just about memorizing facts or formulas; it is about developing a deeper understanding of the material and being able to apply it in different contexts. This mindset has helped me to approach other courses with a more open and inquisitive attitude, and I believe it will serve me well in my future endeavors.

In conclusion, the challenges I faced in my econometrics class were a pivotal moment in my academic journey. They pushed me to grow as a student and as an individual, teaching me the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and a genuine desire to learn. These lessons have not only helped me to succeed in my studies but have also prepared me for the challenges that lie ahead as I pursue a career in economics.