My story by Travailu

My story by Travailu - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I started my freshman year at Bethune Cookman University, I was excited but also a little nervous. Being the first in my family to go to college, I felt a lot of pressure to succeed. I am majoring in Health/Medical Technology because I have always been interested in how technology can improve healthcare and help people live better lives. But my journey has not been without its challenges.

One of the toughest academic experiences I faced was my first biology class. I knew it would be difficult, but I did not expect it to be as challenging as it was. The amount of material we had to cover was overwhelming, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace. The terminology was new and confusing, and I had a hard time understanding the complex processes we were learning about. My first exam did not go well, and I started to doubt my ability to succeed in my chosen field.

At that point, I knew I had to make a change. I realized that I could not tackle this challenge on my own, so I reached out for help. I started by talking to my professor. I was nervous at first, but I found that she was very understanding and supportive. She gave me some great advice on how to approach the material and suggested that I join a study group.

Joining a study group turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. Working with my classmates allowed me to see different perspectives and learn new study techniques. We would meet a few times a week to go over lecture notes, quiz each other, and work on practice problems together. It was encouraging to know that I was not alone in my struggles, and we were all able to support each other in different ways.

In addition to the study group, I also made use of the tutoring resources available on campus. The tutors were incredibly helpful in breaking down the material into more manageable parts and explaining things in a way that made sense to me. They also helped me develop better study habits, like creating a study schedule and focusing on understanding concepts rather than just memorizing facts.

Another important step I took was improving my time management skills. Balancing my coursework with other responsibilities was tough, but I learned to prioritize my tasks and set realistic goals for myself. I started using a planner to keep track of assignments, exams, and study sessions, which helped me stay organized and reduce my stress levels.

Through these efforts, I slowly but surely started to see improvements. My grades began to reflect my hard work, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. By the end of the semester, I had not only passed my biology class but also developed a deeper understanding and appreciation for the subject.

This experience taught me a lot about perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed. It also reinforced my passion for health and medical technology. I learned that challenges are a part of life, and overcoming them requires determination, support, and a willingness to adapt.

As I continue my studies at Bethune Cookman University, I carry these lessons with me. I am committed to working hard and making the most of the opportunities available to me. I know that there will be more challenges ahead, but I am confident that I can face them with the skills and mindset I have developed.

In closing, this challenging academic experience was not just about passing a class. It was about learning how to overcome obstacles and grow as a student and as a person. It showed me the value of community, the power of persistence, and the importance of believing in myself. These are lessons that will stay with me throughout my academic journey and beyond, as I pursue a career in health and medical technology to make a positive impact in the world.