Balancing Passion and Academics: My High School Journey by Oluwatimilehin

Balancing Passion and Academics: My High School Journey by Oluwatimilehin - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced many academic challenges, but one that stands out is my struggle with balancing my passion for communication and media studies with the demands of maintaining a decent GPA. As someone who has always been drawn to storytelling, whether through writing, speaking, or digital media, I found myself constantly trying to explore these interests while also meeting the academic requirements of my high school curriculum.

During my sophomore year, I realized that my GPA was not where I wanted it to be. With a GPA of 2.92, I knew I needed to improve if I wanted to pursue my dream of studying Communications or Journalism at a university like Rutgers or Syracuse. The challenge was not just about raising my grades; it was about finding a way to excel academically while staying true to my interests.

The first step in overcoming this challenge was acknowledging that I needed help. I reached out to my teachers and asked for guidance on how to improve my performance in their classes. This was not easy for me, as I had always been a bit hesitant to seek help, fearing it might make me look incapable. However, my teachers were incredibly supportive and provided me with resources and strategies to tackle my weak spots.

One of the strategies that helped me was learning how to manage my time better. I started using a planner to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and study sessions. This helped me prioritize my tasks and allocate enough time for each subject. I also set specific goals for each week, which gave me a sense of direction and motivation.

Another key aspect was finding ways to integrate my passion for communication into my studies. For instance, in English class, I chose topics for essays and projects that allowed me to explore themes related to media and storytelling. This not only made the assignments more interesting but also helped me develop skills that are relevant to my future studies.

Additionally, I joined the school newspaper, which was a turning point for me. Writing articles and working with a team of like-minded students gave me practical experience in journalism. It was challenging to balance this extracurricular activity with my schoolwork, but it was also incredibly rewarding. It taught me the importance of time management and teamwork, and it reinforced my desire to pursue a career in this field.

Math was another subject where I faced difficulties. To overcome this, I attended after-school tutoring sessions and worked with classmates who were strong in math. By collaborating with others and practicing regularly, I gradually improved my understanding and performance in the subject.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of perseverance and resilience. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, but I reminded myself of my goals and the reason why I was working so hard. I also learned to celebrate small victories along the way, which kept me motivated.

My journey has not been perfect, and I am still working to improve my GPA. However, I am proud of the progress I have made and the skills I have developed. This experience has taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth, and that with determination and support, I can overcome obstacles.

Looking ahead to college, I am excited about the opportunity to further explore my interests in Communications and Media. I am eager to learn from professors and peers who share my passion, and to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this dynamic field. I am also committed to continuing to work hard academically and to seek out opportunities that will help me grow both personally and professionally.

In conclusion, the academic challenge I faced in high school has been a significant learning experience for me. It has taught me valuable lessons about seeking help, managing my time, and staying true to my passions. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well as I embark on the next chapter of my educational journey. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and for the chance to apply for this scholarship, which would greatly support my aspirations.