A Time for Renewal by Diana

A Time for Renewal by Diana - January 2016 Scholarship Essay

A Time for Renewal

The New Year is a time to reflect on the year that has passed, its triumphs and failures and how these experiences have helped to define who we are today. It is a time to move on and give ourselves a new beginning, a chance to grow in places where we have failed to nurture our full potential. The idea of a New Year’s resolution can take away from the importance of setting goals for self-betterment all year, but the new year does provide a sense of a beginning, a chance at renewal.
After some time of reflection I can say that I have always been a decent student. I have obtained good grades, excelled in all of my classes, asked questions, and rarely missed a day of school. My first thought was, how could I be a better student? I have good grades, isn’t that enough? Then I thought of all of the classes that I have taken and all of the wonderful things I have learned and the wisdom I have gained. Then I thought of all the time I spent worrying about assignments during class, taking arbitrary notes, and cramming for tests and exams. I then asked, did I take the time to really absorb what I was learning? I realized that I need to immerse myself in what I am being taught, and this is my resolution.
As a college junior in an intense music program, juggling school full time, a part-time job, along with performances and practice time, it can be hard to give my full and undivided attention in class or be able to whole heartedly immerse myself in what I am learning. For any student, no matter what age, it is hard to juggle all of the things that come with being a student; it can become very hectic. For this year I am going to challenge myself to become fully engaged in my lessons, absorb what I am learning, and take time to reflect on the day’s lessons. I will strive to gain understanding and knowledge from my professors and focus on the education and insight that I am being so graciously given. I want to become well versed and be able to effectively utilize and pass down the knowledge that I have received.
All in all, I believe that it is important to put aside time to reflect on the year that has passed and look forward to what will be obtained in the new year. There is always room for improvement and I am determined to be a more attentive, present, and passionate student. I am going to make the most of my education in the new year and see where it leads me.