Overcoming my obstacles by Fabiana

Overcoming my obstacles by Fabiana - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Fabiana Arevalo, and I am a rising high school senior with a passion for understanding the world and the diverse people in it. As someone who is majoring in Sociology, Social Sciences, and World Studies, I have always been curious about how societies function and how individuals interact within them. However, my academic journey has not been without its challenges. One particular experience stands out as both a struggle and a significant turning point in my education.

During my sophomore year, I enrolled in a challenging Advanced Placement World History class. I was excited to dive into the material, eager to learn about different cultures and historical events that shaped the world. However, as the semester progressed, I found myself struggling with the volume of information and the level of analysis required. The sheer amount of content was overwhelming, and I was not used to the pace at which we were expected to learn and understand complex historical themes.

My initial strategy was to spend more time studying, thinking that if I just worked harder, I would eventually catch up. I spent hours reading and taking notes, but I still felt lost during class discussions and exams. My grades started to slip, and I felt discouraged. I began to doubt my abilities and questioned if I was truly cut out for such rigorous academic work.

Realizing that my approach was not working, I decided to seek help. I reached out to my teacher, who was supportive and understanding. She suggested that I join a study group with other students in the class. This was a turning point for me. Working with my peers allowed me to see different perspectives and understand the material in new ways. We would discuss the readings, quiz each other, and explain concepts that one of us might not fully grasp. This collaborative learning environment made a huge difference.

Additionally, I learned to manage my time more effectively. I started breaking down the material into smaller, more manageable sections and created a study schedule that allowed me to focus on specific topics each day. This approach helped me retain information better and reduced the feeling of being overwhelmed. I also began to use online resources, such as educational videos and forums, to supplement my learning. These tools provided different explanations and insights that helped clarify difficult concepts.

Through these efforts, I gradually improved my understanding of the course material. My grades started to rise, and I felt more confident participating in class discussions. More importantly, I learned valuable skills in time management, collaboration, and resourcefulness that have benefited me in other areas of my academic life.

This experience taught me that it is okay to ask for help and that collaboration can be a powerful tool in overcoming challenges. It also reinforced my passion for learning about the world and its diverse cultures, motivating me to continue pursuing my interests in Sociology, Social Sciences, and World Studies. I am proud of how I handled this challenge and grateful for the lessons it taught me.

As I prepare for college, I am excited to apply these skills and continue exploring the complexities of human societies. I am eager to engage with new ideas and perspectives, and I am confident that my ability to overcome academic challenges will serve me well in my future studies.

In conclusion, facing difficulties in my AP World History class was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It challenged me to adapt, seek support, and develop strategies for success. Overcoming this obstacle not only improved my academic performance but also strengthened my resolve to pursue my passions. I am committed to continuing this journey and contributing to the diverse academic community in college. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest