My Hardships by Rico

My Hardships by Rico - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been filled with various challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly difficult. As a sophomore at Saddleback College, I am studying Business, working towards an MBA. Balancing my studies with personal responsibilities has been tough, but one class in particular tested my resolve and taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and resourcefulness.

Last semester, I enrolled in a course on financial accounting, a subject that is crucial for my major but one that I found incredibly challenging. Numbers have never been my strong suit, and the complex concepts of accounting seemed like an insurmountable mountain at first. The first few weeks were overwhelming, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the lectures and the heavy workload.

The turning point came after I received a low grade on my first exam. I was disappointed and worried about how this would affect my overall GPA, which I had worked hard to maintain at 3.4. I knew I needed to take action if I wanted to succeed in this course and continue on my path towards transferring to a four-year university.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours, something I had been hesitant to do before. To my surprise, she was incredibly supportive and provided me with additional resources to help me understand the material better. She also encouraged me to form study groups with my classmates, which turned out to be one of the most effective strategies for me.

Joining a study group allowed me to collaborate with peers who were facing similar challenges. We met twice a week to review lecture notes, discuss difficult concepts, and quiz each other. This collaborative learning environment helped me gain new perspectives and solidify my understanding of the material. It also provided a sense of camaraderie and motivation, knowing that I was not alone in my struggles.

In addition to the study group, I made use of online resources and tutoring services offered by Saddleback College. I found several online tutorials and practice exercises that allowed me to reinforce my learning at my own pace. The college's tutoring center became a regular stop for me, where I received one-on-one guidance that was tailored to my specific needs.

Time management also played a crucial role in overcoming this academic challenge. I realized that I needed to allocate more time to this course than I initially planned. I created a detailed study schedule, prioritizing my assignments and breaking down the material into manageable sections. This approach not only helped me stay organized but also reduced the stress and anxiety that came with feeling unprepared.

Throughout this experience, I learned the importance of resilience and adaptability. I discovered that facing academic challenges head-on, rather than avoiding them, allowed me to grow both personally and academically. I also learned that it is okay to ask for help and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. I managed to improve my grades significantly, and I gained a newfound confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects. This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities in disguise, pushing us to reach our full potential.

As a student of diverse backgrounds—Black, Hispanic, Native American, and Pacific Islander—I have faced various challenges in my educational journey. However, these experiences have shaped me into a resilient and determined individual who is committed to achieving my academic and career goals. My journey through financial accounting is a testament to my dedication and willingness to overcome obstacles, and it has prepared me for the challenges I will face as I continue my studies in business.

This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education but also serve as a recognition of my hard work and determination. It would enable me to continue pursuing my dreams and contribute to my community as a future business leader. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and hopeful for the chance to further my education with your support.