Louisiana by Simien

Louisiana by Simien - May 2016 Scholarship Essay

In preparation for my final exams I used many methods of study, none more effective than A.R.T. I don’t mean sculpting, poetry, or painting but rather a method which I found most effective in memorizing important information and test taking. A.R.T. stands for Acronyms Rhetoric & Training.
Acronyms I learned to use from my history teacher. Often in class he would use mnemonic devices for remembering things like the causes of the First World War (ex. M.A.I.N.). Seeing him break down complex ideas like militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism into such a simple one word trick inspired me to use this strategy in other subjects and eventually lead to the A.R.T. technique I use now.
Rhetoric was a skill which came more naturally. By participating in competitive speech and debate events I learned to apply informed, credible, and persuasive argumentation to what it is I say. I didn’t actually notice until later on in the academic year that writing, and performing these speeches actually improved my essay writing. When I realized how much I had improved I began to hone my use of both acronyms and rhetoric perfecting them both through the final element of A.R.T. Training.
It is often said that if at first you don’t succeeded you must try again. I took this to heart in preparation for my final exams. Through my Training I learned not to give up no matter how difficult or tedious my studying became. This tenacity truly turned out triumphant as it was found that through Training I became more confidant and taking test became much easier.
After learning, refining, and implementing the skills that make A.R.T. I found it to be an effective study method. Not only did it help me more than anything else on my final exams but I look forward to using it in my normal class work next year and throughout the rest of my life.