Trials and Tribulations by Serenity

Trials and Tribulations by Serenity - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a first-year nursing student at Towson University, I have already encountered several challenges that have tested my resilience and dedication to my studies. One of the most significant academic challenges I faced was during my first semester, in a course that was foundational for my nursing major. The course was Anatomy and Physiology, a subject known for its complexity and rigorous demands. It was a crucial class that would set the tone for my future studies in nursing, and I knew I had to do well.

The challenge began with the sheer volume of material we had to cover. Each week, we were expected to memorize and understand intricate details about the human body, from the cellular level to entire systems. The vocabulary was dense, and the concepts were entirely new to me. I found myself overwhelmed, as I had never encountered a subject that required such a deep level of understanding and memorization.

Initially, I struggled to keep up with the pace. My first few quizzes did not go as well as I had hoped, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the course, and by extension, in my chosen field of nursing. The pressure was immense, and I knew I had to find a way to overcome this hurdle if I wanted to continue on my path.

I realized that my usual study habits were not sufficient for this course. I needed a new strategy. I began by reaching out for help, something that I had always been hesitant to do. I contacted my professor and attended office hours regularly. This allowed me to ask questions directly and gain a better understanding of difficult concepts. My professor was incredibly supportive and provided additional resources that I could use to study.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I formed a study group with a few classmates. We met several times a week to review material, quiz each other, and share study tips. This collaborative approach was immensely helpful. It not only made studying more interactive and engaging, but it also allowed me to see different perspectives on the material. Teaching others in the group also reinforced my own understanding.

I also took advantage of online resources, such as educational videos and interactive quizzes, which provided different ways to engage with the material. These resources were particularly helpful for visualizing complex processes and systems, making it easier for me to retain information.

Time management became crucial. I created a detailed study schedule, dedicating specific hours each day to reviewing lecture notes, reading the textbook, and practicing with flashcards. I made sure to balance my study time with breaks to avoid burnout, which was essential for maintaining my focus and motivation.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a significant improvement in my understanding of the material and my quiz scores began to reflect this. I gained confidence in my ability to tackle challenging subjects, and I learned the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the face of academic challenges.

This experience taught me valuable lessons that extend beyond the classroom. I learned that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. It is important to seek support and utilize the resources available to us. I also learned the power of collaboration and the benefits of learning from others. Most importantly, I discovered the importance of resilience and the ability to adapt to new challenges.

This challenging academic experience was a turning point in my college journey. It reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in nursing, a field that requires continuous learning and adaptation. I am proud of how I overcame this obstacle and grateful for the lessons it taught me. These skills and experiences will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue my studies and eventually enter the nursing profession.

As a Black and Hispanic woman in the field of nursing, I am determined to succeed and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive healthcare environment. Overcoming this academic challenge has strengthened my resolve to achieve my goals and make a positive impact in my community. I am excited to continue my education at Towson University and to use the skills I have developed to excel in my future courses and career.