Overcoming my interest by Jamesly

Overcoming my interest by Jamesly - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Jamesly Joseph, and I am a high school junior currently exploring my passion for business, with plans to major in accounting, finance, marketing, and eventually pursue an MBA. As a Black student, I have faced a number of challenges in my academic journey, but one particular experience stands out as a turning point for me.

During my sophomore year, I faced a particularly challenging time in my math class. Math has always been a subject that I found intriguing, especially because of its connection to finance and accounting, which are fields I am eager to delve into. However, this particular year, I struggled more than usual. The concepts seemed more abstract, and I found it difficult to keep up with the pace of the class. My grades began to slip, and my confidence took a hit. As someone who has maintained a GPA of 3.1, this was a significant blow to my self-esteem and my academic record.

The turning point came when I received a particularly low grade on a math test. It was a wake-up call that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed not just in this class, but in my future studies in business. I knew that understanding math was crucial for my intended majors in accounting and finance, so I had to find a way to overcome this challenge.

The first step I took was to seek help. I realized that I could not tackle this problem on my own, so I reached out to my math teacher for extra help. I started attending after-school tutoring sessions that she offered, which allowed me to ask questions and work through problems at my own pace. This one-on-one attention made a huge difference, as it helped me grasp the concepts that I had been struggling with in class.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also finding the material challenging. We met a couple of times a week to review our notes, work through homework assignments together, and prepare for upcoming tests. This collaborative environment was beneficial because it allowed us to learn from each other and share different strategies for solving problems. It also provided a support system, where we could encourage each other and celebrate our progress.

Furthermore, I realized that I needed to change my study habits. I started dedicating specific time slots each day to focus solely on math, rather than trying to fit it in whenever I had a spare moment. This consistent routine helped me stay on top of the material and reduced the stress of cramming before tests. I also began using online resources, such as educational videos and practice quizzes, to reinforce what I was learning in class.

Through these efforts, I gradually began to see improvement. My test scores started to rise, and I regained the confidence that I had lost. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and seeking help when needed. It also showed me the value of collaboration and how working with others can enhance understanding and problem-solving skills.

Overcoming this academic challenge has prepared me for future obstacles I may face in college and beyond. It has strengthened my resolve to pursue my passion for business and equipped me with the tools I need to succeed in my chosen fields. I am now more determined than ever to achieve my goals and contribute positively to my community.

This experience also reinforced the importance of representation and diversity in education. As a Black student, I am aware of the unique challenges that students like me can face, and I am committed to being a role model for others who might be struggling. I want to show that with determination and support, it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in my math class was a pivotal moment in my educational journey. It taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, collaboration, and the importance of seeking help. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue my studies in accounting, finance, marketing, and business. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and hopeful for the future as I work towards my goals.