self-defeating avoidance tactics by andrew

self-defeating avoidance tactics by andrew - January 2016 Scholarship Essay

When I started to struggle early on in the semester with my intense course load, I reverted to self-defeating avoidance tactics such as hanging out with friends, not completing assignments on time, poor attendance in class, unproductive use of time, and not reaching out for help from my professors or other resources that the college offers. This led me into a downward spiral, and put me into a state of denial where I was not able at that time to get back on a successful track with my studies.

My parents, stepmom, aunt, and I had a meeting recently to better understand these reasons, as described above, for my low scores last semester and what I needed to do differently. I had not been honest with the people who care about me, and most importantly with myself. Even though I had met with my academic adviser, Professor Frank, I did not discuss with him specific problems I was having. I have resolved to get back on track with hard work, improved study habits, and full engagement in each course I take, and challenge my narcissistic individualism that has prevented me in the past from asking for help. When I struggle academically in the future, I will avail myself of support services.