My challenging academic experience that I overcame. by savannah

My challenging academic experience that I overcame. by savannah - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I started my journey at Eastern Kentucky University as a Kinesiology and Physical Therapy major, I knew it would be challenging, but I did not expect how much my first anatomy class would test me. I remember walking into the lecture hall on the first day, feeling both excited and nervous. The excitement quickly turned into a sense of overwhelm as the professor began to introduce the syllabus. The sheer volume of material we were expected to learn was daunting, and I realized that this would not be like any class I had taken before.

The first few weeks were tough. I struggled to keep up with the pace of the lectures and the complexity of the material. Anatomy is all about understanding the human body's structure, and it felt like I was trying to learn a new language. I would spend hours in the library, poring over textbooks and trying to memorize endless lists of bones, muscles, and tissues. Despite my efforts, I did not do well on our first exam. Seeing my grade was disheartening, and I started to doubt my ability to succeed in my chosen field.

However, I knew that giving up was not an option. I had always been passionate about helping others heal and improve their quality of life through physical therapy, and I was determined to overcome this hurdle. I decided to change my approach and seek out resources that could help me understand the material better. I began attending study groups with classmates who were also struggling, and we would quiz each other and share study tips. These sessions were incredibly helpful because they allowed me to see different perspectives and methods for learning the material.

Additionally, I sought help from my professor during office hours. Initially, I was hesitant to ask for assistance, fearing it would make me seem less capable. However, I soon realized that my professor was more than willing to help and provide guidance. He offered me advice on how to organize my study time and focus on understanding the concepts rather than rote memorization. This was a turning point for me, as it shifted my mindset from simply trying to pass the class to truly engaging with the material.

Moreover, I discovered online resources and interactive tools that made learning anatomy more engaging. Websites with 3D models of the human body allowed me to visualize the structures I was studying, making it easier to remember their functions and relationships. I also found videos and tutorials that explained complex topics in a more digestible way. By diversifying my study methods, I was able to reinforce my understanding and retain information more effectively.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a significant improvement in my performance. My grades started to rise, and I felt more confident in my knowledge. The experience taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability. I learned that it is okay to struggle and ask for help when needed. More importantly, I realized that challenges are opportunities for growth and that overcoming them can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject matter.

This challenging academic experience not only strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in physical therapy but also taught me valuable skills that I can apply in other areas of my life. I learned how to manage my time better, how to collaborate effectively with others, and how to seek out resources and support when faced with difficulties. These skills will undoubtedly be beneficial as I continue my studies and eventually enter the workforce.

In conclusion, my experience with anatomy was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me that challenges are not roadblocks but rather stepping stones to success. By changing my approach, seeking help, and utilizing available resources, I was able to overcome a difficult situation and come out stronger on the other side. This experience has reinforced my passion for kinesiology and physical therapy, and I am more determined than ever to succeed in my studies and future career. I am grateful for the lessons I learned and look forward to applying them as I continue to pursue my goals.