APUSH by shea

APUSH by shea - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As I sit down to write about a challenging academic experience, I am reminded of my junior year in high school. It was a year that tested my limits and taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and resilience. The challenge came in the form of my AP U.S. History class, a course that was known for its rigorous curriculum and demanding workload. I had always been interested in history and politics, so I was excited to take the class. However, I quickly realized that my excitement alone would not be enough to carry me through.

The first few weeks of the class were overwhelming. The amount of reading and the complexity of the material were unlike anything I had encountered before. I was used to doing well in my classes, but I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace. The first few quizzes and tests did not go as well as I had hoped, and I started to doubt my abilities. It was a humbling experience, and I knew I had to find a way to overcome it.

The turning point came when I decided to change my approach to studying. I realized that I needed to be more organized and proactive in my learning. I started by creating a detailed study schedule, breaking down the material into manageable chunks. I dedicated specific times each day to review my notes, read the textbook, and work on practice questions. This helped me to stay on top of the material and prevented me from feeling overwhelmed by the workload.

In addition to changing my study habits, I also sought help from my teacher and classmates. I began attending after-school study sessions and formed a study group with some of my classmates. We would meet once a week to discuss the material, quiz each other, and share study tips. This collaborative approach not only helped me to understand the material better, but it also provided me with a support system. I realized that I was not alone in my struggles, and that we could all learn from each other.

Another important lesson I learned was the value of asking questions. In the past, I had been hesitant to speak up in class, fearing that I would ask a "dumb" question. However, I soon realized that asking questions was a crucial part of the learning process. My teacher was always willing to clarify concepts and provide additional resources, and I found that engaging in class discussions helped me to better retain the information.

As the year progressed, I started to see improvements in my grades and my confidence grew. I was no longer intimidated by the material, and I began to enjoy the challenge of the class. By the time the AP exam came around, I felt prepared and ready to tackle it. The hard work and dedication had paid off, and I was proud of what I had accomplished.

Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in my AP U.S. History class. It taught me the importance of perseverance, organization, and seeking help when needed. These are skills that I know will serve me well as I transition to college and pursue a major in Political Science. I am excited to continue learning and growing, and I am confident that I can overcome any challenges that come my way.

This experience also reinforced my passion for history and politics. Despite the difficulties I faced, my interest in the subject never wavered. In fact, it deepened my desire to understand the complexities of government and the impact of historical events on our world today. I am eager to explore these topics further in college and to contribute to discussions about the future of our society.

In conclusion, the challenges I faced in my AP U.S. History class were not easy, but they were incredibly rewarding. They taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, collaboration, and the importance of asking questions. These lessons have prepared me for the next chapter of my academic journey, and I am excited to see where it will take me. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and to apply for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest. Thank you for considering my application.