Academic struggle by Vianca

Academic struggle by Vianca - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Vianca De La Hoz-Canas, and I am a freshman at Florida International University, majoring in Criminal Justice. As I look back on my academic journey, I can identify a challenging experience that taught me resilience and determination. This experience not only tested my limits but also shaped my approach to overcoming obstacles.

In high school, I faced a particularly challenging situation during my junior year. I had always been an average student, maintaining a GPA of around 3.0. However, I decided to take on an advanced placement course in English Literature, hoping to challenge myself and improve my academic standing. The course was known for its rigorous curriculum and demanding workload, but I was determined to push myself beyond my comfort zone.

From the start, the course proved to be more difficult than I had anticipated. The reading assignments were extensive, and the analysis required was deeper than anything I had encountered before. I struggled to keep up with the pace and often found myself overwhelmed by the amount of work. My grades began to slip, and I started to doubt my abilities. The fear of failure loomed over me, and I questioned whether I had made the right decision in taking the class.

Despite the difficulties, I knew I could not give up. I was determined to overcome this challenge and prove to myself that I was capable of succeeding in a demanding academic environment. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to improve. First, I reached out to my teacher for help. I expressed my struggles and asked for guidance on how to better manage the workload. My teacher was supportive and provided me with valuable advice on how to break down assignments into manageable parts and prioritize my tasks.

Next, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also taking the course. We met regularly to discuss the readings and share our insights. This collaborative environment helped me gain different perspectives and deepen my understanding of the material. It also motivated me to stay on track, as we held each other accountable for completing assignments and preparing for exams.

Additionally, I worked on improving my time management skills. I created a detailed schedule that allocated specific times for studying, completing assignments, and taking breaks. This structure helped me stay organized and reduced the feeling of being overwhelmed. I also set small, achievable goals for myself, which gave me a sense of accomplishment and kept me motivated.

As the semester progressed, I began to see improvement in my performance. My grades slowly started to rise, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. The turning point came when I received an A on a particularly challenging essay. This achievement was a testament to the hard work and dedication I had put into overcoming the obstacles I faced.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of perseverance and seeking support when needed. I realized that challenges are opportunities for growth and that with determination, I can overcome any obstacle. This lesson has been invaluable as I transitioned to college, where I continue to face new and demanding academic challenges.

Now, as a Criminal Justice major at Florida International University, I apply the skills and lessons I learned from that experience to my current studies. I understand the importance of staying organized, seeking help when needed, and working collaboratively with peers. These strategies have helped me maintain a GPA of 3.25 in college, and I am confident that they will continue to serve me well as I pursue my academic and career goals.

In conclusion, the challenging experience I faced in my high school English Literature class taught me resilience, determination, and the value of seeking support. It was a turning point in my academic journey that prepared me for the challenges of college and beyond. I am grateful for the lessons I learned and the growth I experienced, and I am committed to applying these lessons as I continue to pursue my passion for Criminal Justice.