Growing up in Baltimore City, I faced a number of challenges that made succeeding in school difficult. My neighborhood, like many others in the city, lacked the resources that many students take for granted. This was especially true when it came to techno by Uriahn

Growing up in Baltimore City, I faced a number of challenges that made succeeding in school difficult. My neighborhood, like many others in the city, lacked the resources that many students take for granted. This was especially true when it came to techno by Uriahn - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Growing up in Baltimore City, I faced a number of challenges that made succeeding in school difficult. My neighborhood, like many others in the city, lacked the resources that many students take for granted. This was especially true when it came to technology. Not having access to a computer at home was a major obstacle that impacted my ability to keep up with schoolwork, especially as assignments increasingly required online research and submissions.

During my ninth and tenth grade years, I struggled to keep pace with my classmates. Without a computer, completing homework assignments was a constant challenge. I often stayed late at school to use the library computers, but the limited hours and availability made it hard to finish everything. On top of that, my home life was complicated. There were times when family responsibilities interfered with my attendance, and I missed valuable class time as a result.

These challenges took a toll on my academic performance. I watched my grades slip and felt a growing sense of frustration. It seemed like no matter how hard I tried, I could not catch up. The situation felt overwhelming, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in high school.

Despite these difficulties, I was determined not to let my circumstances define my future. I knew that education was key to achieving my goals, so I started looking for solutions. The first step was reaching out to my teachers and school counselors. I explained my situation and asked for their advice. They were supportive and helped me identify resources that could assist me.

One of the most helpful resources was a local community center that offered free computer access and tutoring. I began spending time there after school, using their computers to complete assignments and get extra help with subjects I found challenging. The tutors were patient and understanding, and they provided the guidance I needed to improve my grades.

In addition to seeking help from the community center, I also learned to advocate for myself at school. I spoke with my teachers about my attendance issues and worked with them to develop a plan to make up for missed work. They were understanding and allowed me to submit assignments late or complete alternative projects when necessary. This flexibility made a big difference and helped me stay on track.

Another important change was learning to manage my time more effectively. I started using a planner to organize my schedule and prioritize tasks. This helped me balance my responsibilities at home with my schoolwork, ensuring that I could meet deadlines and attend classes regularly.

As I implemented these changes, I began to see improvements. My grades started to rise, and I felt more confident in my abilities. The support from my teachers, counselors, and the community center played a crucial role in my success, and I am grateful for their encouragement and guidance.

This experience taught me several important lessons. I learned the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed. I also discovered the power of community and the impact that supportive networks can have on overcoming challenges. These lessons have prepared me for the next chapter of my education, and I am excited to apply them as I pursue my college degree in finance or business.

In conclusion, growing up in Baltimore City without the resources I needed to succeed in school was a significant challenge. However, by seeking support and advocating for myself, I was able to overcome these obstacles. This experience has shaped my determination to succeed in college and beyond, and I am committed to using the lessons I have learned to achieve my academic and career goals.