Challenges by Sydney

Challenges by Sydney - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a sophomore at Brigham Young University-Idaho majoring in Management, I have faced my share of academic challenges. One particular experience stands out, not just because of the difficulty it presented, but because of the valuable lessons it taught me about perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of seeking help.

During my freshman year, I enrolled in a course called "Principles of Accounting." I had always been interested in the business world, and I knew that a strong foundation in accounting was essential for my management major. However, I quickly found myself overwhelmed by the complexity of the material. The course required a level of analytical thinking and attention to detail that I had not encountered before. Concepts like balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow analysis were foreign to me, and I struggled to keep up with the fast-paced lectures and assignments.

Initially, I tried to tackle the challenge on my own. I spent long hours in the library, poring over the textbook and attempting to solve practice problems. Despite my efforts, I found myself falling behind. My grades on quizzes and assignments were not where I wanted them to be, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the class. It was a humbling experience, as I had always been a diligent student who managed to maintain a solid GPA in high school.

Realizing that my current approach was not working, I decided to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours, hoping to gain a better understanding of the material. To my relief, my professor was incredibly supportive and patient. She explained the concepts in a way that was easier for me to grasp and provided additional resources for practice. Her encouragement gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also joined a study group with some of my classmates. This turned out to be a game-changer for me. Working with peers who were also navigating the same challenges allowed me to see different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. We shared our struggles and successes, and it was comforting to know that I was not alone in my difficulties. The collaborative environment helped me to better understand the material and improved my ability to apply the concepts in practical scenarios.

Another important step I took was to improve my time management skills. Balancing my coursework with other responsibilities was crucial, and I realized that I needed to be more organized to succeed. I started using a planner to schedule my study sessions, ensuring that I dedicated enough time to review accounting concepts regularly. This not only helped me stay on top of the coursework but also reduced the stress I felt from looming deadlines.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a significant improvement in my understanding of the material and my performance in the class. By the end of the course, I had achieved a grade that I was proud of, but more importantly, I had developed a newfound confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects. The experience taught me that it is okay to ask for help and that collaboration can be a powerful tool in overcoming challenges.

This challenging academic experience was a turning point for me. It reinforced the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the face of adversity. I learned that setbacks are not a reflection of my capabilities, but rather an opportunity to grow and learn. The skills and lessons I gained from this experience have been invaluable, not only in my academic journey but also in my personal growth.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in my accounting class. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me the value of resilience. As I continue my studies in management, I carry these lessons with me, confident in my ability to overcome future challenges. I am committed to applying the same determination and willingness to seek support in all aspects of my life, knowing that these qualities will serve me well in my academic and professional endeavors.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience of mastering accounting taught me more than just the principles of the subject. It taught me about the importance of seeking help, the power of collaboration, and the strength that comes from perseverance. These are lessons that I will carry with me throughout my college career and beyond, as I strive to make a positive impact in the field of management.