Overcoming Academic Challenges: A Journey of Growth and Resilience by Shaelyn

Overcoming Academic Challenges: A Journey of Growth and Resilience by Shaelyn - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I first started as a freshman at West Virginia Wesleyan College, I was both excited and nervous about the journey ahead. I had always been passionate about sports and the human body, which led me to choose a major in Kinesiology and Physical Therapy. However, I soon realized that my coursework would be more challenging than I had anticipated.

One of the most difficult academic experiences I faced was during my first semester in my Anatomy and Physiology class. I had always been a hands-on learner, thriving in environments where I could see and touch what I was learning about. However, this class was heavily lecture-based, with intricate details about the human body that I needed to memorize. The sheer volume of information was overwhelming, and I struggled to keep up with the pace of the class.

I remember one particular week when we were studying the muscular system. I spent hours trying to memorize all the muscle names, their functions, and locations. Despite my efforts, I found myself blanking during quizzes and feeling discouraged. I knew I had to find a way to overcome this challenge, not only to succeed in this class but also to build a strong foundation for my future studies in physical therapy.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours, and she was incredibly supportive. She suggested different study techniques, such as creating flashcards and drawing diagrams, which helped me visualize the material better. I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were facing similar challenges. We met regularly to review the material, quiz each other, and share study tips. This collaborative environment made learning more interactive and less daunting.

In addition to these strategies, I realized the importance of managing my time effectively. I created a study schedule that broke down the material into manageable sections, allowing me to focus on one topic at a time. This approach prevented me from feeling overwhelmed and helped me retain information better.

Another key factor in overcoming this academic challenge was staying motivated. I reminded myself why I chose this major in the first place. My passion for helping others and my interest in how the human body works kept me going, even when the material seemed difficult. I also celebrated small victories along the way, like improving my quiz scores or finally understanding a complex concept.

Through persistence and the support of my professor and peers, I was able to overcome the challenges I faced in Anatomy and Physiology. By the end of the semester, my grades improved significantly, and I felt more confident in my ability to tackle complex subjects. This experience taught me the value of seeking help, working collaboratively, and staying organized.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in that class. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me valuable skills that I will carry with me throughout my academic and professional journey. As I continue my studies in Kinesiology and Physical Therapy, I am better prepared to handle the rigorous coursework and am more determined than ever to succeed.

This experience also reinforced my belief in the importance of resilience and adaptability. Challenges are a part of life, and how we respond to them shapes our growth and success. I am proud of how I navigated this difficult academic experience, and I am excited to apply what I have learned to future challenges.

In conclusion, my challenging experience in Anatomy and Physiology taught me more than just the intricacies of the human body. It taught me about perseverance, the power of collaboration, and the importance of staying true to my passions. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue my journey in college and beyond, pursuing a career that I am truly passionate about.