Driven for academics by Skylar

Driven for academics by Skylar - April 2024 Scholarship Essay

Title: The Drive to Conquer: Pursuing Academic Excellence

Dear Scholarship Committee,

I am Skylar Guessford, a devoted and ambitious Mathematics major at Shepherd University, and steadily ascending the ladder of academic achievement with determination, resilience, and an unwavering focus. This essay reveals the force that drives me to chase my academic goals, the strategies I wield to stay concentrated, and how this scholarship is the key that will unlock the door to my dreams, lessening the financial burden and freeing me to focus my all on furthering my studies.

To many, it may seem a paradox to equate strength with academics. However, for me, my academic pursuit has always been the conscious instrument chosen to demonstrate my innate strength. At times, perhaps it appeared arduous or unnecessarily challenging, but it was never an option for me to back down. Instead, I looked at each challenge as an opportunity to prove that I was strong enough to endure and excel in any scenario. My journey from the Washington County Magnet Program, through 2nd through 8th grade, and finally into the Early College Degree Program at Hagerstown Community College at the tender age of 16, has been a constant testament to my drive to continuously take the next step.

Staying focused amidst so many distractions that typically abound in a young woman's life hasn't been a stroll in the park. It was a decision I made and a virtue I cultivated. I channeled my focus on academics by hinging on two principal tactics – meticulous scheduling and strategic planning. Time management has become my second language, and I utilised it to balance my studies effectively, ensuring no room for complacency or boredom. It required discipline, but also allowed me to allocate time for rejuvenation, thus maintaining a balance essential for optimal output.

Pioneering my way into the mathematical realm at college, there is a burning passion in my heart, a desire to delve deeper into the world of numbers and equations. Mathematics, to me, is a universal language with intricate patterns yet to be discovered, and patterns already understood waiting to be applied to practical solutions. This zest for exploring the mysteries of numbers keeps me curious and focused.

Nevertheless, the journey is far from ending. I have only just commenced my college life at Shepherd University as a first-year student, and there are numerous milestones to be accomplished. However, the bounty of this scholarship worth cherishing is not just the financial freedom it will grant me, but also the affirmation and impetus it would provide for my academic pursuit. This scholarship is an investment in my future, in my dreams of making significant contributions in the mathematical world. It will provide reassurance, knowing that my determination is recognized and worth supporting, thus giving me a stronger motivation to remain focused on my academics.

In conclusion, it is the enduring drive to prove that I'm strong enough and the constant thirst for knowledge that fuels my pursuit of academic goals. Parallelly, astute time management, meticulous planning, and the fervor for mathematics serve as my compass, guiding me through the voyage of academics. Finally, earning this scholarship would not only ease financial burdens and enhance focus on my studies, but would also place a remarkable jewel of affirmation and motivation in my academic crown.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

Skylar Guessford