The brink by Naomi

The brink by Naomi - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Naomi Osifo, and as I stand on the brink of graduating high school, I reflect on the journey that has brought me to this point. One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my junior year, and it taught me resilience and determination.

In my junior year, I struggled with chemistry. Science had always been a subject I found interesting, but chemistry was a whole new level of difficulty. Balancing equations, understanding chemical reactions, and memorizing the periodic table felt overwhelming. I watched as my classmates grasped concepts more quickly than I did, and my confidence began to waver. My grades in chemistry dropped, and it was reflected in my overall GPA. I felt defeated and questioned my abilities.

This period was tough for me. I had always believed that hard work would yield results, but no matter how much I studied, I could not seem to get the hang of chemistry. My self-esteem took a hit, and I started to doubt if I was cut out for college. However, I knew I could not give up. I realized that I needed to change my approach and seek help.

I decided to talk to my chemistry teacher and asked for guidance. She was understanding and suggested that I attend extra help sessions after school. These sessions were incredibly beneficial. I was able to ask questions in a smaller setting and receive more personalized attention. My teacher also recommended online resources and videos that explained concepts in different ways. I began to see chemistry as a puzzle rather than a barrier.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling. We met regularly to go over homework, discuss the material, and quiz each other. This peer support system was invaluable. We encouraged each other and celebrated small victories, which made the learning process more enjoyable and less isolating.

I also learned to manage my time better. I realized that I needed to dedicate specific hours to chemistry each week, rather than cramming before tests. By breaking down the material into manageable chunks, I was able to retain information more effectively. I made a study schedule that balanced chemistry with my other subjects, ensuring I did not fall behind in anything else.

Despite my initial struggles, I slowly began to improve. My test scores in chemistry started to rise, and my confidence grew. I learned that perseverance and a willingness to adapt are crucial when facing academic challenges. This experience taught me that it is okay to ask for help and that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.

By the end of the year, I had managed to pull my chemistry grade up significantly. While it was not the highest grade in the class, it was a personal victory for me. More importantly, I had developed skills that would serve me well in college and beyond. I learned the importance of resilience, time management, and collaboration.

This challenging experience did not just improve my chemistry skills; it also shaped my character. It taught me that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to grow and learn. I am now more prepared to face future academic challenges with a positive mindset and the tools I need to overcome them.

As a Black woman, I understand that I may face additional challenges in my academic journey. However, my experience with chemistry has shown me that I am capable of overcoming obstacles with determination and support. I am committed to pursuing higher education and using my experiences to inspire others who may face similar struggles.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story through the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest. I hope to use my education to make a positive impact in my community and encourage others to persevere in the face of challenges. Thank you for considering my application.