Vallerie by Vallerie

Vallerie by Vallerie - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Vallerie Nunez, and I am currently a high school senior with a strong interest in pursuing a career in nursing. As a Hispanic and Black woman, I have faced various challenges throughout my academic journey, but I have always been determined to overcome them and achieve my goals. One particular academic challenge that stands out to me occurred during my junior year of high school, and it taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, resilience, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

During my junior year, I was enrolled in a particularly challenging biology class. I had always been interested in biology because of its connection to the medical field, but this class was unlike any other I had taken before. The coursework was rigorous, and the material was complex. I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the class, and my grades started to slip. This was a difficult time for me because I had always prided myself on being a good student, and I knew that maintaining a strong academic record was important for my future aspirations in nursing.

At first, I tried to handle the situation on my own. I spent countless hours studying and reviewing my notes, hoping that my hard work would pay off. However, despite my efforts, I continued to struggle with the material. I felt frustrated and defeated, and I began to doubt my abilities. It was a challenging time, and I knew that I needed to find a way to overcome this obstacle if I wanted to succeed in the class and pursue my dream of becoming a nurse.

Realizing that I could not do it alone, I decided to seek help. I reached out to my biology teacher and explained my difficulties. My teacher was understanding and supportive, and she offered to meet with me after school for extra help. During these sessions, we went over the material in more detail, and she provided me with additional resources to aid my understanding. Her guidance and encouragement were instrumental in helping me regain my confidence and improve my performance in the class.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with some of my classmates. We met regularly to review the material, discuss difficult concepts, and help each other prepare for exams. Working with my peers not only helped me better understand the material but also made the learning process more enjoyable. It was reassuring to know that I was not alone in my struggles, and together, we were able to support each other and succeed in the class.

Through hard work, determination, and the support of my teacher and classmates, I was able to improve my grades in biology and finish the class with a solid understanding of the material. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help when faced with challenges and the value of collaboration and teamwork. It also reinforced my passion for biology and my desire to pursue a career in nursing, where I can use my knowledge to help others.

Looking back on this experience, I am grateful for the lessons I learned and the growth I achieved. It was a turning point in my academic journey, and it showed me that I am capable of overcoming obstacles with perseverance and the right support. As I prepare to attend William Peace University and pursue a major in Nursing, Nursing Assistant, Pre-Nursing, or Biology, I carry with me the lessons I learned from this challenge. I am confident that they will serve me well as I continue my education and work towards my goal of becoming a nurse.

In conclusion, the academic challenge I faced during my junior year of high school was a difficult but ultimately rewarding experience. It taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, the importance of seeking help, and the power of collaboration. These lessons have not only helped me succeed in my academic pursuits but have also prepared me for the challenges I may face in the future. As I look forward to the next chapter of my education at William Peace University, I am excited to continue learning and growing, and I am determined to achieve my dream of becoming a nurse.