American law school challenges and how I overcame them by Denise

American law school challenges and how I overcame them by Denise - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Denise Pasi, and I am currently a first-year graduate student at Yeshiva University, pursuing a masters degree in Law with a concentration in dispute resolution and advocacy. As a Black African woman, I am deeply aware of the importance of representation and the need to overcome barriers in the legal field. One of the most challenging academic experiences I have faced was during my undergraduate studies when I took on a particularly demanding course in Constitutional Law. This course was notorious for its rigorous content and high expectations, and it pushed me to my limits.

From the very first day, I felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume of material we were expected to master. The class required us to analyze complex legal theories, understand landmark Supreme Court cases, and engage in critical discussions. As someone who is passionate about law and justice, I was eager to excel, but the pressure was immense. I quickly realized that my usual study habits were insufficient for the level of depth and analysis required in this course.

The turning point came after I received my first exam grade. Despite my efforts, I did not perform as well as I had hoped, and it was a wake-up call. I knew I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours to discuss my struggles. This was a humbling experience, as I had always prided myself on being independent and self-reliant. However, my professor was incredibly supportive and provided valuable guidance on how to better approach the material. He encouraged me to focus on understanding the underlying principles rather than just memorizing facts.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. This was a game-changer for me. Working with peers allowed me to gain different perspectives and insights that I might not have considered on my own. We would meet regularly to discuss the readings, debate interpretations, and quiz each other on key concepts. This collaborative environment not only improved my understanding but also boosted my confidence.

Another strategy that helped me overcome this challenge was improving my time management skills. I created a detailed study schedule that allocated specific times for reading, reviewing notes, and practicing essay writing. By breaking down the workload into manageable chunks, I was able to stay on top of the material without feeling overwhelmed. This disciplined approach also helped me balance my other academic responsibilities and personal commitments.

Throughout this experience, I learned the importance of resilience and adaptability. There were moments when I felt discouraged, but I reminded myself of my long-term goals and the reasons why I chose to pursue a career in law. My passion for advocating for underrepresented communities and my desire to effect positive change kept me motivated. I realized that setbacks are a natural part of the learning process and that perseverance is key to overcoming them.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. I saw a significant improvement in my grades and, more importantly, in my understanding of constitutional law. This experience not only strengthened my academic skills but also taught me valuable life lessons about the power of collaboration, the importance of seeking help, and the need to remain persistent in the face of challenges.

Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful for the obstacles I faced, as they have prepared me for the demands of graduate school and my future career in the legal field. I am committed to using the skills and knowledge I have gained to advocate for justice and equality, and I am determined to be a role model for other aspiring Black women in law. This scholarship would greatly support my continued education and help me achieve my goals, allowing me to focus on my studies and make a meaningful impact in my community.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in my constitutional law course taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and collaboration. By seeking help, forming a study group, and improving my time management skills, I was able to overcome this obstacle and grow both academically and personally. I am proud of what I have accomplished and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.