Embracing Growth Through Challenges by Reanza

Embracing Growth Through Challenges by Reanza - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey as a college student has been filled with moments of triumph and moments of struggle. As a sophomore at Austin Community College, I have encountered various academic challenges, but one stands out as a significant turning point in my educational journey. This challenge not only tested my resilience but also taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and self-improvement.

During my freshman year, I enrolled in an introductory course in calculus, a subject that is fundamental to my major in Mechanical Engineering. I had always enjoyed mathematics in high school, but college-level calculus was a different story. The pace was faster, the concepts more abstract, and I found myself struggling to keep up. My initial excitement for the subject quickly turned into frustration as I faced difficulty understanding the material.

The first few weeks were overwhelming. I spent hours on homework, yet my test scores did not reflect the effort I was putting in. My confidence took a hit, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in engineering. My GPA suffered, and I knew I had to make a change if I wanted to continue pursuing my dream of becoming a mechanical engineer.

Realizing that I needed help, I sought out resources at Austin Community College. I started attending tutoring sessions, where I could ask questions and get one-on-one assistance. The tutors were incredibly patient and helped me break down complex problems into manageable steps. I also formed a study group with a few classmates. Working together, we shared insights and encouraged each other, which made a significant difference in my understanding of the material.

In addition to seeking external help, I also had to change my approach to studying. I began to focus on understanding the concepts rather than just memorizing formulas. I spent more time reviewing my notes after each class and practiced problems from different sources to reinforce my learning. This shift in mindset was crucial, as it allowed me to build a solid foundation in calculus that would support my future studies in engineering.

Despite these efforts, there were still moments of doubt. However, I learned to embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth. I reminded myself of why I chose to study mechanical engineering in the first place: my passion for designing and understanding how things work. This motivation kept me going, even when the coursework seemed daunting.

Gradually, my hard work began to pay off. My test scores improved, and I gained a deeper appreciation for calculus and its applications in engineering. This experience taught me that perseverance is key to overcoming academic challenges. It also showed me the importance of seeking help and collaborating with others, as we can achieve so much more when we work together.

Although my GPA is not as high as I would like it to be, I am proud of the progress I have made. I am determined to continue improving and to excel in my studies. This challenge has strengthened my resolve to transfer to Texas A&M University - Central Texas, where I hope to further my education in mechanical engineering. I am eager to apply the lessons I have learned and to continue growing both academically and personally.

In conclusion, the challenge of mastering calculus was a turning point in my academic journey. It taught me the value of perseverance, collaboration, and a growth mindset. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue to pursue my dream of becoming a mechanical engineer. I am grateful for the support I received from my tutors, classmates, and the resources at Austin Community College, and I am excited to take the next steps in my education.