Let Me Introduce Myself by Alison

Let Me Introduce Myself by Alison - April 2019 Scholarship Essay

Hello! My name is Alison, and I’m a....non-traditional student? This is the latest icebreaker greeting I’ve acquired and one I will embrace for the next several years. It identifies one of the most challenging situations I’ve overcome in my academic career: returning to school while working full time as a mature, non-traditional student. I returned to the academic arena to determine if I was ready for a career change, so on top of a complicated daily schedule, I was under the immense pressure of making sure I was taking steps in the right direction. I overcame this academic challenge by utilizing time management skills, prioritizing self-care, and leaning on my support system.

The most important element in overcoming this challenge was time management. I scheduled set study hours each week. During my first semester back in school, I was also training for a marathon. I prioritized completing school work over training, but I also incorporated these work outs into study breaks. I used long runs as opportunities to clear my mind or work through writing blocks. As an older student, I am used to taking notes in a notebook (instead of a computer) and keeping tabs of my schedule in a planner (instead of on a smart phone). I ensured that I knew the general schedule of the entire semester to avoid having large projects sneak up on me. Staying committed to my academic schedule contributed to my success.

Self-care was an important thread in dealing with the overwhelming task of returning to school. Taking time to exercise became very helpful for my mental well-being. Other strategies included meditation, massages, and relaxing baths. Self-care also took place in the form of reflection. Changing careers was not a decision I took lightly when I began this journey. It is not a risk I take lightly now, as I continue following this path and commit to a formal graduate school program. Making time to manage my mental health was vital in handling this new academic adventure.

My support system includes my family, friends, professors, and other professionals who have helped me along the way. I have received an excess of positive encouragement from archaeologists and museum professionals. They were useful sources of information and fielded never-ending questions as I worked my way through textbooks. The support of these individuals helped me feel prepared to take on greater academic challenges.

Having a solid support system and taking the time to maintain mental and emotional health are essential to overcoming academic difficulties. Other useful tools include seeing a tutor, meeting with a study group, or changing study strategies. Success looks different for everyone. It may require strategic scheduling, a Sunday night detox bath, daily meditation, weekly long runs, or simply taking a day off every now and then. The tools that enabled me to tackle this first major hurdle in my new journey will continue to help me with future academic struggles. Now, if only I could find a strategy to overcome those terrible first days full of icebreakers and awkward greetings!