Make the best of my opportunities by Shiquita

Make the best of my opportunities by Shiquita - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Shiquita Beasley, and I am a freshman at South University, majoring in Healthcare Assistant. As a first-time college student, I have faced several challenges, but one academic experience stands out as particularly difficult. Adjusting to the demands of college life was a significant challenge for me, but I learned valuable lessons that helped me overcome it.

When I first started college, I was excited but also nervous about what lay ahead. I was the first in my family to attend college, so I did not have anyone to guide me through the process. I quickly realized that college was very different from high school. The workload was heavier, the classes were more challenging, and the expectations were higher. I struggled to keep up with the demands of my courses, and my grades began to suffer.

One of the most challenging experiences I faced was in my Anatomy and Physiology class. The material was complex, and I found it difficult to understand all the new concepts. I spent hours studying, but I still fell behind. My first exam did not go well, and I felt discouraged. I started to doubt my abilities and wondered if I was cut out for college.

However, I knew that I could not give up. I was determined to succeed, so I began to look for ways to improve my situation. First, I reached out to my professor for help. I attended office hours regularly, where I asked questions and sought clarification on topics I found confusing. My professor was supportive and provided me with additional resources to aid my understanding.

Next, I formed a study group with some classmates. We met several times a week to review material, discuss difficult topics, and quiz each other. Working with others helped me see different perspectives and reinforced my learning. It also provided a sense of community and support, which was crucial during this challenging time.

In addition to seeking help from others, I had to improve my time management skills. I created a detailed study schedule that allocated specific times for studying each subject. By organizing my time effectively, I was able to balance my coursework and other responsibilities. I also learned to prioritize my tasks, focusing on the most important assignments first.

Another strategy I used was to take advantage of the resources available on campus. I visited the tutoring center, where I received one-on-one assistance from tutors who specialized in Anatomy and Physiology. They helped me understand difficult concepts and provided practice problems that improved my skills. I also attended workshops on study skills and test-taking strategies, which helped me approach my exams with more confidence.

As I continued to work hard and utilize these strategies, I began to see improvement. My grades gradually increased, and I regained my confidence. By the end of the semester, I had not only passed my Anatomy and Physiology class but had also developed a stronger foundation for future courses.

This experience taught me several important lessons. I learned the value of seeking help when needed and the importance of building a support network. I also realized that perseverance and hard work are key to overcoming challenges. Most importantly, I discovered that I am capable of achieving my goals, even when faced with obstacles.

Being a first-time college student is not easy, especially when you are navigating everything on your own. However, this experience has made me more resilient and determined to succeed. I am proud of how far I have come, and I am excited about what the future holds. I know that I will face more challenges along the way, but I am confident that I can overcome them with the skills and strategies I have developed.

Through this journey, I have also reaffirmed my passion for healthcare. I am committed to becoming a Healthcare Assistant and making a positive impact in my community. I believe that my experiences have prepared me to handle the demands of this field and to continue learning and growing as a professional.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience of adjusting to college life and tackling difficult coursework has been a defining moment in my educational journey. It has taught me resilience, the importance of seeking help, and the value of hard work. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and the growth I have experienced. As I continue my studies at South University, I am determined to succeed and make the most of every opportunity.