FLORIDA by Genesis

FLORIDA by Genesis - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my life I have not been the best academic student, I've been pretty average compared to others. I never thought that I would even be good enough to get into the best university of Florida, as I look at the future, I am reminded of what my Psychology professor taught me about intelligence. The best advice I have ever gotten from a teacher is that intelligence is not fixed, intelligence is something that continuously grows with time and the more you understand this, the more you will succeed in life.
Learning that intelligence is not fixed has encouraged me to look at learning as a continuous journey rather than a final destination. I now see my failures as a way to grow and learn from them instead of convincing myself that I am simply not smart enough. Seeing intelligence through the right eyes has allowed me to persevere through life’s difficulties.
I have tutored many children from low-income neighborhoods who believe that intelligence is fixed. I have been able to encourage students to push through even when it is difficult. I have taught them that there is no limit to what they can learn and accomplish and there is no point in which you will ever stop learning.
Not only had this teacher spoke to me about intelligence, but she also walked out with me what it looks like to live in a way that promotes intelligence as a journey. My teacher had noticed that my grades were slipping and instead of simply telling me that my grades were slipping she gave me tips on how I can better improve my grades.
Learning that intelligence is not fixed has changed my life tremendously. I have been much more successful academically than I have ever been. My attitude towards learning has drastically improved because of the way I view intelligence and I thank my professor for teaching me a better way to view life.