Educational Barrier by Marilyn

Educational Barrier by Marilyn - April 2019 Scholarship Essay

Diving into a freezing pool at 5:00 A.M. is not what most consider a wake up call. At the beginning of preseason was when I found it more difficult to not only balance academics but sports as well. However, my passion for water polo was louder than my alarm clock and the freezing water. It took a while to adjust but I learned to overcome this challenge by managing my time wisely.

The first couple of weeks of having double practice was stressful. Discovering the best way to manage my time was strenuous. The moment my body feels the water all I think about is how to better myself not only as a swimmer but as a team player, but everything changed the moment I opened my agenda. Leaving early from class twice a week in December interrupted math lessons and required me to take tests during lunch, thus creating one of my greatest challenges. The first test score I received was devastating making me realize my attempt to balance academics and sports was not working, but I persevered and kept an optimistic perspective. Although, my friends would offer to take pictures of the lessons, I knew that wasn’t going to be enough.

Conscious that the method I was accustomed was failing I decided to try something new. I was recommended to watch Khan Academy videos, which I did. I also reached out to my teacher because I knew there were ways in which I could improve my grade and ensure that I’d succeed academically. The first thing he suggested was to stay after school for tutoring in order to receive the help I needed. As well as to create an agenda for the week, with my water polo schedule, tests dates, and family obligations. Despite the challenge, I encounter I am satisfied with the outcome. Even though there are times I still struggle, I know that my journey has prepared me for any obstacles that come my way.