by Solana

by Solana - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As I reflect on my academic journey, one challenging experience stands out as a defining moment for me. It was during my high school years, a time when I faced not just academic difficulties, but also personal and emotional challenges.

Throughout high school, I struggled to find my footing academically. My GPA was a reflection of this struggle, sitting at a 1.7 by the time I graduated. It was not that I lacked the intelligence or the ability to succeed; it was more about the circumstances I found myself in. There were times when life outside of school felt overwhelming, and I found it hard to focus on my studies. I was dealing with issues that many students face, but I did not know how to ask for help or how to manage my time effectively.

The turning point came during my junior year of high school. I realized that if I wanted to achieve my dream of going to college and studying law, I needed to make a change. This realization was both daunting and motivating. I knew that I had to develop new strategies to overcome my academic challenges and improve my grades.

The first step I took was reaching out for help. I started by talking to my teachers, who were understanding and willing to support me. They helped me identify the areas where I was struggling and provided additional resources and guidance. I also sought help from my peers, forming study groups where we could learn from each other and hold each other accountable.

Another significant change I made was in how I managed my time. I began to prioritize my studies, setting aside specific hours each day dedicated solely to schoolwork. I used planners and to-do lists to keep track of assignments and deadlines. This structure helped me stay organized and reduced the stress of last-minute cramming.

In addition to these practical steps, I worked on changing my mindset. I learned to view challenges not as insurmountable obstacles but as opportunities for growth. I started to believe in my ability to improve and succeed. This shift in perspective was crucial in helping me stay motivated and resilient, even when progress seemed slow.

Despite my efforts, my GPA did not dramatically improve by the time I graduated, but I did see growth in my understanding and in my confidence. This experience taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, self-advocacy, and the importance of seeking support. It also prepared me for the challenges I would face in college.

When I began my studies at Baylor University, I carried these lessons with me. As a legal studies major, I am now in an environment where I am constantly challenged to think critically and engage deeply with complex material. While the workload is demanding, I am better equipped to handle it because of the skills I developed in high school.

Being a Black woman in a predominantly white institution also presents its own set of challenges, but I am committed to using my voice and my experiences to contribute to the diversity and inclusivity of my field. I am passionate about pursuing a career in law, not only to advocate for justice but also to inspire others who may face similar obstacles.

In conclusion, the academic challenges I faced in high school were difficult, but they were also transformative. They taught me resilience and the power of reaching out for help. These experiences have shaped who I am today and have prepared me for the future. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue my education and to pursue my dreams, and I am determined to make a positive impact in my community and beyond.