My experience by Samantha

My experience by Samantha - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Samantha Armstrong, and I am a freshman at Southern New Hampshire University, majoring in Psychology. Reflecting on my academic journey, one particular challenge stands out as a turning point for me. It was during my junior year of high school, a time when I was struggling to keep my grades up and trying to figure out how to balance everything. My GPA was not where I wanted it to be, sitting at a 2.97, and I knew I had to make some changes to achieve my goal of attending college and pursuing a degree in Psychology.

The main challenge I faced was in my chemistry class. Science had never been my strongest subject, and I found myself falling behind quickly. The concepts were difficult for me to grasp, and I felt overwhelmed by the amount of information I needed to understand. I was anxious about my ability to pass the class, let alone excel in it. It was a pivotal moment, as I realized that my performance in this class could impact my overall GPA and my future college plans.

To overcome this challenge, I knew I had to change my approach to learning and studying. First, I sought help from my teacher. I started attending extra help sessions after school, where I could ask questions and get one-on-one assistance. My teacher was incredibly supportive and patient, breaking down complex topics into more manageable pieces. This personalized attention made a huge difference in my understanding of the material.

Additionally, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling. We met regularly to review notes, work on practice problems, and quiz each other. This collaborative environment not only made studying more enjoyable but also allowed us to learn from each other’s strengths. Working with peers helped me see different perspectives and approaches to solving problems, which was invaluable.

I also realized that my study habits needed improvement. I began to organize my study schedule, dedicating specific times each day to focus on chemistry. I used a planner to keep track of assignments, tests, and deadlines, which helped me stay on top of my work and reduce stress. Breaking down my study sessions into smaller, more focused periods made the task less daunting and more productive.

Another important step was changing my mindset. Instead of viewing chemistry as an insurmountable obstacle, I started seeing it as an opportunity to grow and learn. I reminded myself of my long-term goals and how overcoming this challenge would bring me closer to achieving them. This shift in perspective motivated me to keep pushing forward, even when things were tough.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. I managed to improve my grade significantly, which boosted my confidence and showed me that I could overcome academic challenges with determination and the right strategies. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help, collaborating with others, and maintaining a positive attitude.

Looking back, I am grateful for the struggle I faced in chemistry. It taught me resilience and the value of persistence, lessons that have been crucial as I transitioned to college. As a Psychology major, I know I will encounter new challenges, but I feel better equipped to handle them. I am committed to continuing to develop my skills and learn from each experience, knowing that each challenge is an opportunity for growth.

This academic challenge was a defining moment in my educational journey. It reinforced my passion for learning and my determination to succeed, no matter the obstacles. I am excited about the future and the chance to apply what I have learned to my studies in Psychology. I believe that understanding human behavior and helping others through my chosen field will be incredibly rewarding.

In conclusion, overcoming my struggle in chemistry taught me valuable lessons that extend beyond academics. It showed me the importance of perseverance, the power of collaboration, and the impact of a positive mindset. These lessons have shaped who I am today and will continue to guide me as I pursue my academic and career goals. I am thankful for the opportunity to share my story and for the chance to apply for this scholarship, which would help support my journey in higher education.