About Me by Victoria

About Me by Victoria - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a first-time college student at California State University - Sacramento, majoring in Law Enforcement and Law, I have encountered my fair share of academic challenges. One particular experience stands out as both a struggle and a turning point in my educational journey. It was during my first semester, in a course that I expected to be straightforward but turned out to be quite the opposite.

The course was Introduction to Criminal Justice, a foundational class for my major. I was excited to dive into a subject that I felt passionate about, but I quickly realized that my enthusiasm was not enough to carry me through. The lectures were dense, the reading material was extensive, and the exams were more difficult than I had anticipated. I found myself struggling to keep up, and my initial excitement was overshadowed by anxiety and self-doubt.

One of the biggest challenges was adjusting to the volume of reading and the level of critical thinking required. In high school, I had managed a solid GPA of 3.6, but college was a whole new ballgame. The professors expected us to not only understand the material but also to analyze and apply it in ways I had not done before. I remember one particular exam where I felt completely unprepared, despite spending hours studying. When I received my grade, it was lower than I had hoped, and I felt disheartened.

It was at that point that I realized I needed to change my approach. I could not rely on the same study habits that had worked in high school. I needed to develop new strategies that would help me succeed in this more demanding environment. The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours and explained my struggles. To my relief, she was understanding and offered valuable advice on how to tackle the material more effectively. She suggested breaking down the reading into manageable sections and focusing on understanding the key concepts rather than trying to memorize everything.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also formed a study group with some classmates. This was a game-changer for me. Being able to discuss the material with others helped deepen my understanding and allowed me to see different perspectives. We would meet once a week to go over the readings and quiz each other on important topics. This collaborative approach not only improved my grasp of the subject but also made studying more enjoyable.

Another strategy I adopted was to improve my time management skills. I started using a planner to organize my assignments and set specific goals for each study session. By breaking down my tasks into smaller, achievable steps, I was able to manage my workload more effectively and reduce my stress levels. This also helped me maintain a balance between my academic responsibilities and other aspects of my life, such as family and social activities.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a significant improvement in my performance. My grades started to rise, and I felt more confident in my ability to tackle challenging material. By the time the final exam came around, I was better prepared and more at ease. When I received my final grade for the course, I was thrilled to see that my hard work had paid off.

Reflecting on this experience, I realize that overcoming academic challenges is not just about working harder but also about working smarter. It taught me the importance of seeking help when needed, collaborating with others, and managing my time effectively. These skills are not only essential for my studies in law enforcement and law but will also be invaluable in my future career.

This challenging experience has strengthened my resolve to succeed in my chosen field. It has shown me that I am capable of overcoming obstacles and adapting to new situations. As a Hispanic woman, I am proud to be pursuing a career in law, where I hope to make a positive impact in my community. This journey has only just begun, but I am confident that the lessons I have learned will guide me through the challenges ahead.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming this academic challenge has been a pivotal moment in my college experience. It has reinforced my commitment to my studies and my future aspirations. I am grateful for the support I received along the way and look forward to continuing to grow and learn in my academic and professional journey.