My Experience by Jayden

My Experience by Jayden - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I first started my journey at Stephen F Austin State University, I was excited about all the possibilities that lay ahead. I had chosen to major in Business Administration because I have always been interested in understanding how businesses operate and how I could potentially make a difference in that world. However, as a college sophomore, I faced a significant academic challenge that tested my resolve and determination.

During my second semester, I enrolled in a course that was crucial for my major. It was a core class that laid the foundation for many advanced topics in business. At first, I thought I could handle it just like any other class, but I quickly realized that it was more demanding than I had anticipated. The concepts were complex, and the workload was heavier than what I had experienced before. On top of that, I was struggling to balance my studies with my part-time job, which I needed to support myself financially.

As the weeks went by, I found myself falling behind. My grades were slipping, and I started to panic. I knew that my GPA was not where I wanted it to be, and this class was crucial for improving it. I felt overwhelmed and unsure of how to get back on track. I was at a point where I had to make a decision: either give up and accept a poor grade or find a way to overcome this challenge.

I chose the latter. The first step I took was to reach out for help. I realized that I could not do it alone, and there was no shame in asking for assistance. I began attending office hours regularly, where I could ask my professor questions and get clarification on topics I did not understand. This direct interaction helped me immensely, as I was able to grasp the material better with the guidance of someone who was an expert in the field.

Additionally, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling. We met twice a week to review notes, discuss difficult concepts, and quiz each other. This collaborative approach not only made studying more manageable but also less isolating. We supported each other and shared resources, which made a big difference in our understanding of the course material.

To better manage my time, I started using a planner to organize my schedule. I blocked out specific hours for studying, work, and relaxation. This structure helped me stay focused and ensured that I was dedicating enough time to my studies without neglecting other responsibilities. I also learned to prioritize tasks by importance and deadline, which made my workload seem less daunting.

Another crucial step in overcoming this challenge was improving my study habits. I realized that my previous methods were not effective for this level of coursework. I began using active learning techniques, such as summarizing information in my own words and teaching the material to someone else. These strategies helped reinforce my understanding and retention of the subject matter.

Despite the initial setbacks, my efforts started to pay off. My grades gradually improved, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. By the end of the semester, I had not only passed the class but had also learned valuable lessons about perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed.

This experience taught me that challenges are an inevitable part of academic life, but they do not have to define our journey. It is how we respond to these challenges that truly matters. I learned that resilience, resourcefulness, and a willingness to adapt are key to overcoming obstacles. These skills will not only help me in my academic pursuits but also in my future career in business administration.

I am grateful for the support I received from my professor and classmates, as well as the lessons I learned about myself during this time. This experience has strengthened my commitment to my studies and my desire to succeed. I am determined to continue working hard and improving my GPA as I move forward in my college career.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming this academic challenge has been a defining moment in my college journey. It has prepared me for future challenges and has reinforced my belief in the power of persistence and collaboration. I am proud of how far I have come and am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as I continue my education at Stephen F Austin State University.