Struggle does not equal failure by Nylah

Struggle does not equal failure by Nylah - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Nylah Berrian, and I am a junior in high school with big dreams of studying Marine Biology at a university like the University of Texas Austin or Spelman College. I am excited to pursue this path in college; however, getting here has not been without its challenges. One of the most difficult academic experiences I faced was during my sophomore year, and it taught me a lot about perseverance and the power of asking for help.

During my sophomore year, I enrolled in an Advanced Placement (AP) Biology class. I was excited because I knew it would give me a head start on my dream of studying Marine Biology. However, I quickly realized that the class was much more challenging than I had anticipated. The amount of material we had to cover was overwhelming, and the pace was much faster than I was used to. I found myself struggling to keep up with the lectures and the assignments.

At first, I tried to handle it on my own. I spent hours after school poring over my textbook, trying to make sense of the complex concepts. I took notes diligently and tried to memorize every detail. Despite my efforts, my grades were not where I wanted them to be. I felt discouraged and started to doubt my ability to succeed in the class, and by extension, my ability to pursue a career in Marine Biology.

I realized I needed to change my approach if I wanted to improve. The first step I took was to reach out for help. I spoke with my teacher after class and explained my struggles. She was understanding and offered to help me during her office hours. I started going to her office hours regularly, where she patiently explained the topics I found difficult. She also gave me tips on how to study more effectively, like focusing on understanding the concepts rather than just memorizing facts.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met once a week to review the material together. This was incredibly helpful because we could explain things to each other in different ways, and it made the learning process more interactive and less isolating. We shared resources, quizzed each other, and even created fun ways to remember the material, like using flashcards and drawing diagrams.

Another important change I made was to improve my time management skills. I realized that part of my struggle was due to procrastination and not having a structured study schedule. I started using a planner to organize my time better. I set aside specific times each day dedicated to studying biology, and I made sure to stick to this routine. This helped me stay on top of my assignments and reduced the stress of cramming before tests.

Over time, my efforts started to pay off. My grades gradually improved, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. I learned that it was okay to ask for help and that collaboration could be a powerful tool in overcoming academic challenges. I also discovered the importance of persistence and not giving up, even when things seem tough.

This experience taught me valuable lessons that I will carry with me into college and beyond. I learned that challenges are not insurmountable obstacles but opportunities to grow and learn. By seeking help, working with others, and managing my time effectively, I was able to overcome a difficult situation and come out stronger on the other side.

As I look forward to attending college, I am excited to face new challenges and continue to grow academically and personally. Whether I end up studying Marine Biology or not, I know that the skills I have developed will serve me well. I am grateful for the support of my teachers and peers, and I am determined to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.

In conclusion, overcoming the challenge of AP Biology taught me resilience and the importance of seeking support. It reinforced my passion for learning and my commitment to pursuing my dreams. I am excited to bring this determination and enthusiasm to college, where I hope to make a positive impact in my field of study.