The struggles of text anxiety by Kaleigh

The struggles of text anxiety by Kaleigh - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my academic journey, one of the most challenging experiences I faced was struggling with test anxiety. No matter how well I prepared, the pressure of exams often overwhelmed me, leaving me unable to perform to my full potential. My heart would race, my mind would go blank, and I felt trapped by my own fears. This anxiety not only affected my grades but also my confidence, making me question my abilities as a student.

The turning point came during my junior year, when I realized that ignoring the problem wasn’t helping. I decided to confront my anxiety and develop strategies to manage it. The first step was acknowledging the issue and talking about it with trusted teachers and family members. Their encouragement reassured me that I wasn’t alone and that many students experience similar challenges.

I also sought practical solutions. I started practicing mindfulness and breathing exercises to calm my nerves before exams. Additionally, I developed healthier study habits, breaking down material into manageable chunks and creating realistic schedules to avoid last-minute cramming. Positive self-talk became another powerful tool—I reminded myself that my worth wasn’t determined by a single test and that I was capable of success.

Over time, these strategies helped me regain control. While I still feel nervous before exams, I no longer let anxiety define me. This experience taught me resilience, the value of preparation, and the importance of seeking help when needed. Facing and overcoming test anxiety has made me not just a better student but also a stronger person.