Study Strategies by Cristina

Study Strategies by Cristina - August 2022 Scholarship Essay

For me, being in Converse University student, I hope to have a better relationship with studying. We have been told to treat our brain like a muscle and to exercise it, but our brain is an organ. However, a lot of people think that in order to enhance cognitive function, we need to use techniques for cognitive training for our brain. During my first year of college studying wasn’t my strongest suit; acknowledging the problem is the first step of improvement. Since everyone’s minds are unique, it’s essential to test several study methods in order to find one that works best for you. Being motivated and having the ability to concentrate are two areas where I can make improvements to begin this process of finding the best stagy to study.
To be motivated and concentrate, one must have a positive attitude to master new skills and that can be used as a great tool in learning. Motivation can also be heavily influenced by peers, friends, parents, and environmental settings. This may influence a person’s choice. When someone is motivated, they are acting out of curiosity or enjoyment for themselves rather than in anticipation of a potential benefit. However, there is a significant difference that needs to be understood when someone is driven solely by the prize that will receive.
The experience of being a first-generation student has its up and downs. Being the first member of my family to attend college, I wish I could say that I felt more honored to have this chance, but instead, I felt under greater pressure and began to question my abilities. When I entered college for the first time, I walked in blind-sided without any preparation or guidance. Because I didn’t know what would happen in my first year, it was difficult to stay motivated and maintain a positive attitude, which is why I struggled so much in my first year of college.
I have learned that creating obtainable expectation of what going to happen next motivate me to work hard on towards my goal. Doing one thing at a time has been one of the things that has helped me throughout my own life. I generally struggle with concentration and motivation, so concentration mostly on one class or lesson at a time will ensure that I absorb and retain the majority of the material. One of the methods I use to write notes is called blurting method which entail reading a textbook or exam several times before closing the book and jotting down whatever information is still fresh in my mind. After finishing, I reopen the book and compare my notes with those in the textbook to determine which topics I understand better and which I need to review more. Another way I have found very affective is creating quiz or test surrounding a chapter or subject. I still have a lot I can do to get better at studying by trying new approaches. I have tried many different tactics, but I have only found one that has worked for me. I’m confident that this year I can have a better relationship with studying for these upcoming semesters.
With my goal in mind for this upcoming year, I believe that I can improve my relationship with studying, building my personal growth, and develop a more positive perception of myself. I hope you take me into consideration in being an application to this scholarship.