How Informal Education Shaped My Academic Journey by Azeezat

How Informal Education Shaped My Academic Journey by Azeezat - June 2024 Scholarship Essay

Education is not limited to the walls of a classroom. While traditional schooling provided a solid basis for my academic success, informal education was equally important in shaping my intellectual and personal development. Through numerous real-world experiences, extracurricular activities, and personal undertakings, I have gained essential knowledge that has had a significant impact on my academic career.
One of the most important components of my informal education has been my participation in extracurricular activities. As an active member of various groups and organizations, such as the Key Club, Shift Club, and Student Council, I've received practical skills to supplement my formal education. These activities taught me leadership, teamwork, and time management, all of which are essential abilities for academic achievement. For example, working as an officer in the Shift Club, which focuses on empowering ladies, has helped me improve my abilities to plan events, delegate tasks, and motivate peers. These experiences have not only enriched my high school career, but have also given me the tools I need to succeed in academics.
Furthermore, my journey as a young business has been a learning experience in itself. Running my own nail care business has taught me about financial literacy, customer service, and business management, which are not often emphasized in high school courses. Balancing studies with the obligations of running a business has given me a strong work ethic and a feeling of responsibility. This informal education has improved my discipline and focus, which have directly impacted my academic performance.
Additionally, my voluntary work with the Mayor's Youth and the Key Club has given me a greater understanding of community service and social responsibility. These events taught me the value of giving back to the community and instilled in me a sense of empathy and compassion. Participating in community service has broadened my understanding of societal concerns and inspired me to adopt these principles into my academic studies. Seeing the real-world implications of what I learn in school motivates me to improve academically and use my knowledge to make a positive difference.
Informal schooling has also helped me prepare for my future career. My desire to become a lawyer, concentrating in corporate law, has been motivated by my practical experience. Running my own business and taking the Principles of Law course piqued my interest in the legal aspects of entrepreneurship. These experiences have given me an advantage in comprehending the nuances of business law and strengthened my devotion to this career path.
In conclusion, informal education has been critical to my academic achievement. The skills and insights I've learned outside of the classroom have supplemented my formal education and prepared me for future academic and professional pursuits. By taking advantage of both official and informal educational experiences, I have gained a well-rounded viewpoint that will serve me well throughout my academic career and beyond.