College essay by Stephanie

College essay by Stephanie - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Stephanie Castro-Ramirez, and I am a sophomore at Northeastern Illinois University. I have faced several challenges in my academic journey, but one experience stands out as a turning point for me. It was during my first year in college, when I struggled to balance my coursework in Accounting and Economics with my passion for Animal Sciences and Veterinary studies. This challenge taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, time management, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

When I first entered college, I was excited about the opportunity to pursue my interests in multiple fields. I was particularly drawn to Accounting and Economics because I believed they would provide a strong foundation for any career path I chose. At the same time, my love for animals and my dream of working in Veterinary sciences were equally important to me. I was determined to excel in all my courses, but soon realized that juggling these demanding subjects was more difficult than I had anticipated.

During my first semester, I found myself overwhelmed by the workload. The concepts in Accounting and Economics were new to me, and I struggled to keep up with the pace of the classes. On top of that, I was also trying to dedicate time to my Animal Sciences courses, which required hands-on experience and a deep understanding of biological sciences. My grades started to slip, and I felt like I was constantly playing catch-up. My GPA dropped to 2.2, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in college.

I knew I had to make a change, so I started by reassessing my priorities and managing my time more effectively. I created a detailed schedule that allocated specific time slots for studying each subject, attending classes, and completing assignments. I also set aside time for rest and self-care, which I realized was crucial for maintaining my mental and physical health. This new routine helped me stay organized and reduced my stress levels.

Additionally, I sought help from my professors and academic advisors. I attended office hours regularly, where I could ask questions and clarify concepts I did not understand. My professors were supportive and provided additional resources that helped me grasp difficult topics. I also joined study groups with classmates, which allowed me to collaborate and learn from others. These interactions not only improved my understanding of the material but also boosted my confidence.

Another important step I took was to utilize campus resources, such as tutoring centers and workshops. I attended sessions that focused on study skills and exam preparation, which equipped me with strategies to approach my coursework more effectively. The tutors were patient and understanding, and their guidance made a significant difference in my academic performance.

Through these efforts, I gradually improved my grades and regained my confidence. I learned that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a proactive step towards success. I also discovered the importance of balancing my interests and being realistic about what I could achieve in a given timeframe. While I am still passionate about Animal Sciences and Veterinary studies, I realized that I could integrate these interests into my future career in a way that complements my studies in Accounting and Economics.

This challenging experience taught me resilience and adaptability. I learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to remain persistent even when the path seems difficult. My journey is far from over, and I am still working towards improving my GPA and achieving my academic goals. However, I am proud of the progress I have made and the skills I have developed along the way.

As I consider transferring to City Colleges of Chicago—either Malcolm X or Harold Washington College—or continuing at Northeastern Illinois University, I am confident that the lessons I have learned will guide me in my future endeavors. I am eager to further my education and continue exploring the intersection of my interests in a way that allows me to make a positive impact in my community.

In conclusion, the academic challenges I faced during my first year of college were difficult, but they ultimately strengthened my resolve and prepared me for future success. I am grateful for the support I received from my professors, peers, and campus resources, and I am determined to continue working hard to achieve my goals. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.