A journey followed by faith by Sanai

A journey followed by faith by Sanai - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced a number of challenges, but one of the toughest has been trying to keep my grades up while managing personal responsibilities. As a high school senior with a GPA of 2.7, I have had my struggles, but these experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance.

One of the hardest academic experiences I faced was during my junior year. I found myself struggling in my math class, a subject that has never come easily to me. The concepts seemed foreign, and I was overwhelmed by the pace at which we were expected to learn them. My grades were slipping, and I knew I had to take action before it was too late.

I realized that I needed to change my approach to learning math. 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 with her help, I began to understand the material more clearly. She encouraged me to tackle problems step-by-step and not to be afraid of making mistakes, as they were part of the learning process.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also turned to online resources. I found educational videos and websites that explained the math concepts in different ways, which helped me see them from new perspectives. This extra practice was crucial in helping me grasp the material. I spent hours watching tutorials and working through practice problems, gradually building my confidence.

I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met regularly to review homework and prepare for tests. Working with my peers allowed me to see how others approached the problems, and it gave me the chance to explain concepts to them, which reinforced my own understanding. Our study group became a source of motivation and support, as we encouraged each other to keep pushing forward despite the difficulties we faced.

Another important step I took was improving my time management skills. I realized that I needed to dedicate more time to studying math, so I created a schedule that allowed me to balance my schoolwork with my other responsibilities. I set aside specific times each day to focus on math, which helped me stay on track and avoid last-minute cramming. This discipline not only improved my math skills but also made me more organized in other areas of my life.

Despite my efforts, there were times when I felt discouraged. However, I reminded myself of my long-term goals and the importance of education in achieving them. I am passionate about pursuing a career in business administration or law, and I know that a strong academic foundation is essential. The thought of attending colleges like CUNY - John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Florida State University, Morgan State University, or Clark Atlanta University motivated me to keep going.

Through this experience, I learned the value of persistence and the importance of seeking help when needed. I also discovered that I am capable of overcoming challenges when I put my mind to it. My GPA may not reflect straight A's, but it represents my growth and determination to succeed. Each small victory in understanding a difficult concept was a step toward my larger goals.

This academic challenge taught me that setbacks are not failures, but opportunities to learn and grow. I have become more confident in my abilities and more determined to achieve my goals. I am excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead as I pursue my college education. I know that the skills and lessons I have learned will serve me well in any field I choose to enter.

In conclusion, overcoming my struggles in math has been a defining moment in my high school career. It has taught me resilience, the importance of seeking help, and the power of perseverance. These lessons will continue to guide me as I move forward in my academic and professional journey. I am grateful for the challenges I have faced, as they have prepared me for the opportunities and obstacles that lie ahead. As I look to the future, I am confident that I can handle whatever comes my way, armed with the knowledge that I have the ability to overcome any challenge with hard work and determination.