Building Resilience Through Hospitality Studies by Damon

Building Resilience Through Hospitality Studies by Damon - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a sophomore at Napa Valley College studying hospitality, I have encountered my fair share of academic challenges. One experience that stands out involved a tough course in my first year: Introduction to Hospitality Management. This course shined a bright light on the fact that people love to feel like family, and family is one of my biggest values. I strive to make everyone feel comfortable and accommodated while maintaining my professionalism and the integrity of my establishment. I was excited to start my journey in the hospitality program, but I quickly realized that balancing my coursework with other responsibilities was not going to be easy. This experience tested my academic abilities, determination, and problem-solving skills.

The assignments in this course were demanding, and the exams required a deep understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of the hospitality industry. My GPA at the time was not where I wanted it to be, and I knew I had to improve to stay on track with my goals. This realization was daunting, and it felt like a significant hurdle in my academic journey.

One of the biggest challenges was time management. I was juggling multiple classes, part-time work, and personal commitments. It felt overwhelming, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the program. However, I was determined not to let this challenge defeat me. I knew that if I wanted to pursue a career in hospitality, I needed to manage my time more effectively.

To overcome this, I created a more structured schedule. I organized my week, setting aside specific times for studying, attending classes, and completing assignments. I used planners and digital calendars to keep track of deadlines and important dates, which helped me stay organized and reduce stress.

Additionally, I sought help from my professors and peers. I was initially hesitant to ask for help, fearing it might make me appear less capable. However, I realized that seeking support was a sign of strength, not weakness. I attended office hours regularly, where I could ask questions and get clarification on topics I found difficult. My professors were supportive and provided valuable insights that helped me grasp complex concepts.

I also formed a study group with classmates facing similar challenges. Working together allowed us to share different perspectives and study techniques. This collaborative approach improved my understanding of the material and boosted my confidence. It was reassuring to know that I was not alone in my struggles.

Another strategy that helped me was using online resources. I discovered educational websites and videos that explained hospitality management topics in a more accessible way. These resources were incredibly helpful in reinforcing what I learned in class and provided additional examples that made the material more relatable.

Despite these efforts, there were still moments of doubt and frustration. However, I reminded myself of my passion for hospitality and my long-term goals. This motivation kept me going, even when the journey seemed tough. I realized that challenges are a part of any worthwhile endeavor and that overcoming them would make me stronger.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. I managed to improve my understanding of the subject and my grades reflected that progress. My GPA saw a modest increase, which was encouraging and reaffirmed my ability to overcome academic challenges. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and seeking help when needed.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in that course. They pushed me to develop skills that are essential not just in academics, but in life. I learned how to manage my time effectively, collaborate with others, and utilize resources to enhance my learning. These lessons have been invaluable as I continue my studies in hospitality and prepare for a future in the industry. I am now more confident in my ability to handle whatever challenges come my way.

In conclusion, overcoming the challenges in my Introduction to Hospitality Management course was a pivotal moment in my college journey. It taught me resilience and the importance of asking for help. As I move forward, I am better equipped to handle future obstacles and am more determined than ever to succeed in my academic and professional endeavors. I am thankful for the opportunity to share my story and hope it inspires others to persevere through their own challenges. This experience has shown me that with determination and support, I can achieve my goals and make a meaningful impact in the hospitality industry.