Here’s Why by Shayaan

Here’s Why by Shayaan - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Shayaan Khan, and as a sophomore at Washington State University, I am pursuing majors in Agricultural Business/Management and Business Administration. Throughout my academic journey, I have encountered several challenges, but one particular experience during my freshman year stands out as a defining moment.

Coming into college, I knew that balancing two majors would be demanding, but I was eager to embrace the challenge. The first semester was a whirlwind of new experiences, and I was determined to excel in my classes. However, I quickly realized that the transition from high school to college was more difficult than I had anticipated. The coursework was more rigorous, and managing my time effectively was something I struggled with.

One class that proved particularly challenging was an introductory course in agricultural economics. The subject matter was fascinating, and I was passionate about learning how economic principles apply to agriculture. However, the class moved at a fast pace, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the complex concepts and heavy workload. My grades were not reflecting the effort I was putting in, and I began to doubt my abilities.

This experience was a wake-up call for me. I realized that I needed to develop better study habits and seek help if I wanted to succeed. I started by reaching out to my professor during office hours. Initially, I was nervous about asking for help, but my professor was supportive and provided valuable guidance on how to approach the material. He suggested breaking down the concepts into smaller parts and focusing on understanding the fundamentals before moving on to more complex topics.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I joined a study group with some of my classmates. This was a game-changer for me. Working with others allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material, and I found that explaining concepts to my peers helped reinforce my own understanding. The collaborative environment of the study group also made the learning process more enjoyable and less isolating.

Time management was another area where I needed improvement. I started using a planner to organize my schedule and set specific study times for each subject. By prioritizing my tasks and breaking my workload into manageable chunks, I was able to reduce stress and stay on top of my assignments. This approach not only helped me in my agricultural economics class but also improved my performance across all my courses.

As I continued to work hard and apply these strategies, I noticed a significant improvement in my understanding of the material and my grades. By the end of the semester, I had developed a strong foundation in agricultural economics, and my confidence in my academic abilities had grown. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, seeking help when needed, and the value of collaboration.

Overcoming this academic challenge was a pivotal moment in my college journey. It reinforced my passion for my chosen fields of study and motivated me to continue pursuing my goals. I learned that challenges are opportunities for growth and that with determination and the right support, I can overcome obstacles and achieve success.

As I move forward in my academic career, I am committed to applying the lessons I learned from this experience. I am more confident in my ability to tackle difficult subjects, and I am eager to continue exploring the intersection of agriculture and business. I believe that my background as a Pacific Islander and my diverse perspective contribute to my resilience and adaptability, qualities that are essential in navigating the complexities of my studies and future career.

In conclusion, the challenging experience I faced in my freshman year taught me invaluable lessons that have shaped my approach to learning and problem-solving. I am grateful for the support I received from my professors and peers, and I am proud of the progress I have made. As I continue my journey at Washington State University, I am excited to build on this foundation and strive for excellence in my academic and professional endeavors.