My Trip by Zachary

My Trip by Zachary - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey in education has been full of ups and downs, but one of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my high school years. I was not the strongest student back then, and my GPA of 2.8 reflected the struggles I had with staying focused and motivated in my studies. This was a tough time for me, but it was also a period of growth that taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and the importance of asking for help.

The challenge began in my sophomore year when I started falling behind in several of my classes. Math, in particular, was a subject that seemed impossible to conquer. No matter how much I tried, I could not wrap my head around the concepts, and my grades were slipping. It was frustrating and demoralizing to see my classmates excel while I struggled just to keep up. I felt overwhelmed and began to doubt my abilities, which only made things worse.

Realizing that I was on a path that could jeopardize my future, I knew I had to make a change. The first step was admitting that I needed help. This was not easy for me, as I had always been somewhat independent and hesitant to rely on others. However, I reached out to my math teacher, who was incredibly supportive and understanding. She took the time to work with me after school, breaking down the material into manageable pieces and explaining it in a way that made sense to me. Her patience and encouragement were exactly what I needed to regain my confidence.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also joined a study group. This was another big step for me because I was not used to working with others in an academic setting. However, being part of a group allowed me to see different perspectives and approaches to solving problems. It also provided a sense of camaraderie and support that I had been missing. We would meet a couple of times a week to review material, share tips, and motivate each other to stay on track. This collaborative environment helped me feel less isolated in my struggles and more connected to my peers.

Another important aspect of overcoming this challenge was learning how to manage my time better. I realized that part of my problem was not dedicating enough time to study and prepare for exams. I started using a planner to organize my assignments, set priorities, and allocate specific times for studying each subject. This simple change made a huge difference in my ability to stay on top of my workload and reduce the stress I felt from being unprepared.

These efforts eventually paid off. By the end of my junior year, my grades had improved significantly, and I was no longer dreading math class. More importantly, I had developed skills and habits that would serve me well beyond high school. I learned that it is okay to ask for help and that working with others can lead to better outcomes than trying to do everything on my own. I also discovered the power of persistence and the importance of not giving up, even when things seem impossible.

This experience has had a lasting impact on my academic journey. Now, as a freshman at Grand Canyon University majoring in History, I carry these lessons with me. I am passionate about becoming a teacher because I want to help students who might be struggling like I once did. I understand firsthand how a little support and encouragement can make a world of difference. I want to be that source of motivation and guidance for future generations, helping them overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming this academic challenge taught me resilience, the value of collaboration, and the importance of seeking help. These lessons have shaped who I am today and have fueled my desire to pursue a career in education. I am grateful for the support I received along the way and am excited to pay it forward by becoming a teacher who inspires and empowers students to succeed, no matter the obstacles they face.