My story by yassah

My story by yassah - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Yassah Zaizay, and I am a freshman at Manor College, majoring in Criminal Justice. As a first-time college student, I have faced my fair share of academic challenges, but one particular experience during high school stands out as a turning point for me.

Throughout high school, I struggled to maintain a strong GPA. My high school GPA was a 2.3, which is not exactly what I had hoped for. The low GPA was not for lack of effort, but rather a combination of circumstances and challenges that I had to learn to navigate. One of the most significant challenges I faced was in my junior year, when I took on a particularly tough math class. Math had always been a subject that did not come easily to me, and this class was no exception.

The class was fast-paced, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the material. Each new concept built on the last, and I felt like I was constantly playing catch-up. It was frustrating and disheartening to see my classmates grasping the material while I was still trying to understand the basics. I started to doubt my abilities and questioned whether I was cut out for the academic path I had chosen.

Despite my struggles, I was determined not to give up. I knew that I needed to find a way to overcome this challenge if I wanted to succeed in my future studies. I started by reaching out for help, something that was not easy for me to do. I approached my teacher after class and explained my difficulties. To my relief, my teacher was incredibly supportive and offered to help me during lunch breaks and after school. These one-on-one sessions made a significant difference, as they allowed me to ask questions and work through problems at my own pace.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We would meet a couple of times a week to go over homework and prepare for tests. Studying with my peers helped me see different perspectives and approaches to solving problems, which was incredibly valuable. It also provided a sense of camaraderie and support, as we were all working towards the same goal.

Another strategy I adopted was to make use of online resources. I discovered several educational websites and videos that explained math concepts in a way that was easier for me to understand. These resources became a crucial part of my study routine, allowing me to review and reinforce what I had learned in class.

Through persistence and hard work, I gradually began to see improvements. My test scores started to rise, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. By the end of the semester, I had managed to pull my grade up significantly. More importantly, I had learned a valuable lesson about perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed.

This experience taught me that challenges are not insurmountable. With determination, support, and the right resources, it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve success. It also reinforced my belief in the importance of education and the doors it can open. I carried these lessons with me as I transitioned to college, where I continue to face new challenges in my Criminal Justice major.

As a college student, I am committed to applying the strategies I learned in high school to my current studies. I actively seek out resources and support when needed, whether it is through professors, classmates, or online tools. I have also learned to manage my time more effectively, balancing my academic responsibilities with other aspects of college life.

My journey has not been easy, but I am proud of the progress I have made. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to learn and grow, and I am excited about the future. I am passionate about my major and the impact I hope to make in the field of Criminal Justice. I believe that my experiences have prepared me well for the challenges ahead and have given me the resilience and determination needed to succeed.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in high school taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of seeking help, and the power of education. These lessons have shaped who I am today and continue to guide me as I pursue my college education and future career. I am determined to make the most of every opportunity and to overcome any obstacles that come my way.