Books, Tests, and Tears: The Reality of School Struggles by Hannah

Books, Tests, and Tears: The Reality of School Struggles by Hannah - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through the first year of graduate school at Maryville University has been filled with both excitement and challenges. As a Kinesiology and Physical Therapy major, I have always been passionate about understanding the human body and helping others improve their physical well-being. However, one academic experience in particular tested my resolve and taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and adaptability.

The challenge began in my first semester when I enrolled in an advanced Anatomy and Physiology course. I knew it would be demanding, but I did not anticipate just how intense it would be. The sheer volume of information was overwhelming. We were expected to memorize complex systems, understand intricate processes, and apply this knowledge in practical settings. Each week, there were lectures, lab sessions, and endless pages of textbooks to digest. On top of that, the pace was relentless, leaving little room for error or catching up.

Initially, I struggled to keep up. Despite spending long hours studying, I found myself falling behind. It was disheartening to see my efforts not translating into the grades I had hoped for. I began to doubt my abilities, questioning whether I was truly cut out for this path. The pressure was immense, and I realized I needed to find a way to overcome this hurdle.

The first step in tackling this challenge was acknowledging that my current study methods were not effective. I decided to seek help, which was not easy for me. I reached out to my professor and expressed my difficulties. To my relief, she was incredibly supportive and offered guidance on how to approach the material more strategically. She suggested focusing on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization and encouraged me to form a study group with classmates.

Taking her advice, I joined a study group, and it was a game-changer. Working with peers allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material. We shared notes, quizzed each other, and explained concepts in our own words. This collaborative environment made learning more interactive and less isolating. It also provided a support system where we could motivate each other and share tips on managing the workload.

In addition to the study group, I began to utilize various resources that I had previously overlooked. I attended supplemental instruction sessions and used online platforms for additional practice. I also started organizing my study schedule more effectively, breaking down the material into manageable chunks and setting specific goals for each session. This approach helped me stay focused and reduced the overwhelming feeling of having to tackle everything at once.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a gradual improvement. Concepts that once seemed impossible to grasp began to make sense. I became more confident in lab sessions, applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. My grades started to reflect the hard work I was putting in, and this positive feedback loop motivated me to keep pushing forward.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of resilience and adaptability. It taught me that it is okay to ask for help and that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. I also discovered the value of collaboration and how much we can learn from one another. Most importantly, I realized that challenges are opportunities for growth, and overcoming them can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject matter.

This challenging academic experience has prepared me for future obstacles in my academic and professional journey. It has instilled in me a determination to keep striving for excellence, even when the path is difficult. As I continue my studies in Kinesiology and Physical Therapy, I am more committed than ever to mastering the skills needed to make a positive impact in the field.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming this academic challenge has been a transformative experience. It has reinforced my passion for my chosen field and strengthened my resolve to succeed. I am grateful for the support I received from my professors and peers, and I am proud of the progress I have made. This experience has not only made me a better student but also a more resilient individual, ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.