Challenging academic experience by Malik

Challenging academic experience by Malik - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I first started my freshman year at Albany State University, I knew that majoring in engineering would be a tough road. I was excited but also nervous about the challenges ahead. My high school GPA was 3.0, which was decent, but I knew college would be a different ball game. I was ready to work hard, but I did not anticipate just how demanding my courses would be, especially Calculus.

Calculus was my first real academic hurdle. I had always done well in math during high school, but college-level math was a different story. The pace was faster, the concepts were more abstract, and I quickly found myself struggling to keep up. During the first few weeks, I felt overwhelmed by the lectures and the assignments. I remember sitting in class, trying to take notes, but feeling lost as the professor moved through topics I barely understood.

I realized I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. The first step I took was to admit to myself that I needed help. This was not easy, as I have always been someone who tries to figure things out on my own. However, I knew that continuing to struggle in silence would not benefit me. So, I started attending tutoring sessions offered by the university. The tutors were incredibly helpful, breaking down complex concepts into simpler parts and giving me the chance to ask questions without feeling embarrassed.

In addition to tutoring, I formed a study group with a few classmates. This turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. Working with peers who were facing the same challenges allowed us to support each other. We would meet several times a week to go over lecture notes, solve problems together, and prepare for exams. This collaborative environment made learning more engaging and less intimidating.

Time management was another skill I had to develop quickly. In high school, I could get away with procrastinating, but in college, that was a recipe for disaster. I started using a planner to organize my study schedule, balancing my time between classes, study sessions, and personal activities. This helped me stay on track and reduced the stress of last-minute cramming.

Despite my efforts, there were still times when I felt discouraged. There were moments when I questioned whether I was cut out for engineering. However, I reminded myself why I chose this path in the first place. I have always been fascinated by how things work and the idea of creating solutions to real-world problems. This passion kept me motivated, even when the going got tough.

Eventually, my hard work began to pay off. I started to see improvements in my understanding of the material and my grades. The first time I aced a Calculus exam, I felt a sense of accomplishment that made all the struggles worth it. It was a turning point that showed me I was capable of overcoming academic challenges.

This experience taught me several valuable lessons. I learned the importance of seeking help and the power of collaboration. I also discovered that perseverance and dedication can turn a daunting challenge into a manageable task. Most importantly, I realized that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to grow and improve.

As I continue my journey in engineering, I know I will face more challenges. However, I am confident that the skills and resilience I developed during my first semester will help me tackle whatever comes my way. I am grateful for the support I received from my tutors, classmates, and professors, and I am committed to using this experience to help others who might be struggling as I did.

In conclusion, overcoming the challenge of Calculus in my freshman year was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It tested my limits but also taught me how to rise above difficulties. I am proud of the progress I have made, and I am excited to continue pursuing my passion for engineering with renewed determination and confidence. This experience has not only strengthened my academic abilities but has also shaped me into a more resilient and resourceful student.