Struggles of a student by Shamoni

Struggles of a student by Shamoni - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Growing up, I always had a passion for video games. I was fascinated by the worlds and stories that unfolded on the screen, and I dreamed of one day creating my own games. I knew that to achieve this dream, I would need to work hard and get a good education. But as I went through high school, I faced one major challenge that stood in my way: my academic performance.

Throughout my time at Fort Lauderdale High School, I struggled to keep my GPA up. My grades were not where I wanted them to be, and I often felt overwhelmed by the pressure to succeed. It was tough to balance my love for game design with the demands of my schoolwork. I knew that if I wanted to pursue my passion at a place like the University of California Berkeley, I needed to find a way to overcome this challenge.

The turning point came during my junior year. I realized that I needed to take a step back and reassess my approach to learning. I had always thought that success in school was about natural talent, but I learned that it was really about persistence and finding the right strategies that worked for me.

I started by setting small, achievable goals for myself. Instead of focusing on my overall GPA, I focused on improving my grades in each class, one assignment at a time. I made a schedule that helped me manage my time better, so I could dedicate specific hours to studying, homework, and my passion for game design. This helped me create a balance that I could maintain.

I also reached out for help, something I had been hesitant to do before. I began attending tutoring sessions after school and asking my teachers for extra help when I did not understand something. I found that my teachers were more than willing to support me, and they gave me valuable advice on how to study more effectively. I learned about different study techniques, like making flashcards and summarizing notes, which helped me retain information better.

In addition, I joined a study group with some of my classmates. Working with others allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material, and it made studying a more interactive and engaging experience. We would quiz each other and explain concepts to one another, and this collaborative approach made a big difference in my understanding of the subjects.

One of the most important lessons I learned was the power of perseverance. There were times when I felt like giving up, especially when I did not see immediate results. But I reminded myself of my goal and kept pushing forward. Slowly but surely, my hard work began to pay off. My grades improved, and I started to feel more confident in my abilities.

This experience taught me that challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities to grow and learn. I realized that my passion for game design could be a driving force in my academic journey, motivating me to overcome obstacles and strive for excellence. I learned to embrace my unique perspective as a Black and Hispanic woman, understanding that my diverse background is an asset that can enrich the world of game design.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenge I faced, as it taught me resilience and determination. It showed me that I am capable of achieving my dreams if I am willing to work hard and seek out the resources I need. I am now more motivated than ever to pursue game design at the University of California Berkeley, where I hope to learn from some of the best minds in the field and contribute my own ideas and creativity.

In conclusion, the academic challenge I faced was a pivotal moment in my life. It taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, the importance of seeking help, and the power of setting goals. I am proud of how far I have come, and I am excited about the future. I know that there will be more challenges ahead, but I am confident that I can overcome them with the skills and mindset I have developed. This experience has not only prepared me for college but has also strengthened my resolve to make a positive impact in the world of game design.