Facing My Academic Challenge by William

Facing My Academic Challenge by William - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a college junior at East Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting, I have faced my share of academic challenges. One experience, in particular, stands out as a defining moment in my college career. It was during my sophomore year when I enrolled in an Intermediate Accounting course. I knew the class would be tough, but I did not anticipate just how demanding it would be.

At the beginning of the semester, I found myself overwhelmed by the volume of material and the complexity of the concepts. Accounting principles that I had previously found manageable suddenly seemed insurmountable. The pace of the class was fast, and I struggled to keep up with the assignments and readings. My initial excitement for the subject turned into anxiety as I worried about falling behind.

The first exam was a wake-up call. Despite studying diligently, I scored much lower than I had hoped. It was a blow to my confidence, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the course, and even in my major. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to overcome this challenge.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours to discuss my difficulties. This was not easy for me, as I was used to figuring things out on my own, but I knew I needed guidance. My professor was understanding and provided valuable advice on how to tackle the material. He encouraged me to focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than just memorizing formulas.

Additionally, I formed a study group with a few classmates. This was one of the best decisions I made. Working with others allowed me to gain different perspectives and clarify concepts that I found confusing. We would meet regularly to review notes, work through practice problems, and quiz each other. This collaborative environment made studying more engaging and less daunting.

I also realized the importance of time management. I began to organize my schedule more effectively, dedicating specific blocks of time each day to study accounting. This consistency helped me stay on top of the coursework and reduced my stress. I learned to prioritize tasks and break down larger assignments into manageable parts, which made the workload feel less overwhelming.

Another strategy I adopted was active learning. Instead of passively reading the textbook, I started taking detailed notes and summarizing each chapter in my own words. I would teach the material to myself, explaining it out loud as if I were the instructor. This technique helped reinforce my understanding and retention of the material.

Over time, I noticed a gradual improvement in my comprehension and performance. By the time the second exam came around, I felt more prepared and confident. My efforts paid off when I received a much-improved grade. This success motivated me to continue applying these strategies throughout the rest of the course.

By the end of the semester, I had not only passed the class but had also gained a deeper appreciation for accounting. The challenges I faced taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, resourcefulness, and the importance of seeking support when needed. I learned that struggles are opportunities for growth, and overcoming them can lead to newfound strengths.

This experience has had a lasting impact on my academic journey. It reinforced my commitment to my major and my desire to pursue a career in accounting. I am now more confident in my ability to handle difficult courses and am better equipped with the skills needed to succeed in my studies.

Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the challenges I faced, as they have shaped me into a more resilient and determined student. I am eager to continue applying these lessons as I progress in my education and eventually transition into my professional life.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience of my Intermediate Accounting course taught me the importance of seeking help, collaborating with peers, managing my time effectively, and engaging actively with the material. These strategies not only helped me overcome the difficulties I faced in that class but have also prepared me for future challenges in my academic and professional endeavors. I am proud of the progress I have made and look forward to continuing my journey with the skills and confidence I have gained.