First Semester Struggles by Sydney

First Semester Struggles by Sydney - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I think about a challenging academic experience I have faced, my mind goes back to my first semester at Otterbein University. Transitioning from high school to college was a big shift for me, not just academically, but personally as well. As a Black woman entering a nursing program, I was aware of the statistics and the challenges that lay ahead, but I was determined to succeed.

In high school, I was used to being at the top of my class, with a GPA of 4.0, and I felt confident in my academic abilities. However, college was a whole new world. The pace was faster, the material was more complex, and the expectations were much higher. I remember my anatomy and physiology class vividly. The sheer volume of information was overwhelming, and I quickly realized that my high school study habits were not going to cut it here.

The second exam was a real wake-up call. I had to study for both the lecture and the lab at once, and it was incredibly difficult. Despite putting in long hours, I ended up getting a C- on both parts of the exam. I was exhausted when I took the test, and it was clear that my approach needed to change. It was disheartening and made me question if I was cut out for nursing. I knew I had to change my approach if I wanted to succeed.

The first step I took was to reach out for help. I realized that I could not do it all on my own, and Otterbein had resources available that I had not yet tapped into. I started studying with another student who was also struggling. We decided to attend our teacher's office hours together, which made a huge difference. Our teacher was very supportive and helped us understand the material better. We also used old tests and quizzes to guide our study sessions, which helped us identify our weak areas and focus on improving them.

In addition to this, I attended tutoring sessions and study groups, which further solidified my understanding. Being able to discuss the material with peers and get different perspectives was incredibly helpful. I also learned the importance of taking care of myself. With the pressure of classes, it was easy to neglect my well-being. I started to prioritize exercise and healthy eating, which in turn helped me focus better in my studies. I also made sure to set aside time for relaxation and social activities, as maintaining a balance was crucial for my mental health. I learned to breathe and take breaks, which helped me avoid burnout and approach my studies with a clearer mind.

At some point, I realized that classes like these are meant to be hard and meant to weed people out. While it was important that I passed, it was also important that I kept going even when I did not want to. This persistence paid off. By the end of the class, I had a B+ that was really close to being an A. I also noticed that my class, which started with around 60 people, ended up with only about 30 who actually showed up regularly. Understanding that the challenge was part of the process helped me push through.

Another key factor in overcoming this challenge was staying connected to my roots and my community. As a Black woman in a predominantly white institution, it was important for me to find support and mentorship. I joined the Black Student Union and connected with other students and faculty who shared similar experiences. This community provided encouragement and reminded me of why I chose nursing in the first place—to make a difference and provide compassionate care in a field that needs more diversity.

Through these efforts, I saw my grades improve and my confidence grow. I learned that setbacks are not failures, but opportunities to learn and grow. This experience taught me resilience and the importance of seeking help and making use of available resources. It also reinforced my passion for nursing and my commitment to persevere, no matter the challenges.

In conclusion, my first semester at Otterbein University was a challenging academic experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone. However, by seeking help, improving my study habits, taking care of my well-being, and staying connected to my community, I was able to overcome these challenges. This experience has prepared me for future obstacles and strengthened my resolve to succeed in the nursing field. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and am excited to continue my journey, knowing that I have the tools and support to face whatever comes my way.