Academic Struggles by Samantha

Academic Struggles by Samantha - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My first semester at college was a whirlwind of new experiences, and among the most challenging was the transition from high school to college-level coursework. I chose to major in History at Susquehanna University because I have always been fascinated by the stories of the past and how they shape our present. However, I quickly realized that my high school study habits were not enough to handle the demands of college academics.

In high school, I was used to being able to study the night before a test and still do well. But in college, especially with my history courses, the amount of reading and the depth of analysis required was much greater. I found myself overwhelmed by the volume of material and the expectation to not just memorize facts, but to critically engage with them. This was a big shift for me, and I struggled to keep up at first.

One particular class, "World History to 1500," was especially challenging. The professor expected us to read hundreds of pages each week and come to class ready to discuss and analyze the material in depth. I remember feeling lost during discussions and anxious about upcoming exams. It was clear that my usual approach was not going to cut it.

To overcome this challenge, I knew I had to change my approach to studying. The first step was to develop better time management skills. I started by organizing my schedule more effectively, using a planner to map out my weeks. This helped me allocate specific times for reading and reviewing notes, rather than trying to cram everything in at the last minute. Breaking down the workload into manageable chunks made it less overwhelming.

Additionally, I sought help from my professor and classmates. I realized that I was not alone in feeling overwhelmed, and reaching out was a crucial step. I attended office hours regularly, where my professor provided guidance on how to approach the readings and offered feedback on my essays. These sessions helped me understand the expectations and how to meet them. I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We would meet weekly to discuss the material, share insights, and quiz each other. This collaborative learning environment made a big difference, as it allowed me to see different perspectives and deepen my understanding of the topics.

Another important strategy was improving my note-taking skills. In high school, I often wrote down everything the teacher said, but in college, I learned to focus on key themes and arguments. I started using techniques like mind mapping and summarizing each chapter in my own words. This not only helped me retain information better but also made studying for exams more efficient.

I also took advantage of campus resources like the writing center, where I received help in structuring my essays and developing strong thesis statements. Writing is a critical part of studying history, and improving my writing skills was essential to my success. The feedback I received was invaluable, and over time, I noticed a significant improvement in my grades.

Through these efforts, I gradually became more confident in my abilities. I learned that overcoming academic challenges is not just about working harder, but also about working smarter. By developing new study habits, seeking help when needed, and using available resources, I was able to not only keep up with my coursework but also excel. This experience taught me resilience and adaptability, skills that I know will be valuable throughout my college career and beyond.

Reflecting on this challenging experience, I am grateful for the lessons it taught me. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to grow. I learned that it is okay to struggle and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. This journey has reinforced my passion for history and my commitment to my education.

As I continue my studies, I am excited to take on more challenges, knowing that I have the tools and mindset to overcome them. This experience has shown me that with dedication and the right strategies, I can achieve my academic goals. I am looking forward to what the rest of my college journey will bring, and I am confident that I will be able to navigate any obstacles that come my way.