Navigating Academic Challenges: Overcoming Struggles and Finding Success
Many of us face challenging academic hurdles during our university years, whether it be due to personal reasons, academic pressure, or simply the difficulty of certain subjects. In my journey, I have personally grappled with some tough courses, and in this article, I will share my experiences and the lessons I learned along the way.
Pharmacy Technology: A Personal Struggle
Among the most challenging university courses I encountered, Pharmacy Technology stands out. This course was particularly difficult for me and many others in my program. My passion for it was low, as I held aspirations to become a pharmacy technician, partly due to my late mother's wishes and also to impress certain family members who were focused on STEM fields.
I found myself struggling with the subject, and it took a significant toll on my mental health. My efforts to improve my grades were undermined by a lack of enthusiasm for the material. As a result, my focus and time spent with my best friend suffered, much to my regret.
However, it was through this experience that I learned a valuable lesson: the importance of choosing a path that aligns with your true interests and skills. It’s crucial not to undertake a course or field of study solely for others' expectations, as that can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. This challenging period has reinforced the message that we should follow our passions while excelling in areas that resonate with us.
Challenges in Mathematics
Another tough subject I encountered was Mathematics. While I struggled with a particularly challenging class in 8th grade, leading to a low D- grade, I understood the importance of continuous effort and hard work. This experience has taught me that even when initial grades are low, the level of dedication and determination can lead to significant improvement over time.
Currently, I am excelling in advanced mathematics courses. My success in these difficult subjects has allowed me to see that one negative experience can indeed bring about positive outcomes when viewed from the right perspective. My current approach focuses on consistent effort and maintaining high standards, which has paid off in both academic and professional endeavors.
Western Civilization: A Lesson in Tenacity
One of the more grueling courses I took was Western Civilization. The sheer volume of information in the course, spanning from exams to a research essay and the final exam, was overwhelming. Despite my complaints to the professor, she insisted on her approach, which required a massive amount of memorization.
Although the initial struggle was immense, my perseverance paid off in the long run. After earning bachelor's and master's degrees and accumulating additional credits, I was hired at my former school as a respected teacher, even earning the same level of credentials as my former instructor. This experience has shown that hard work, even when it feels insurmountable, can lead to success and respect.
Business Ethics and Philosophy: Complex but Rewarding
Another challenging course that I tackled was Business Ethics. This course, combined with Logic, pushed me to the limit due to the complexity of philosophical concepts. Nonetheless, these demanding courses ultimately made the advanced math and logic courses seem straightforward by comparison.
The experience taught me that even seemingly complex disciplines like philosophy can be understood and mastered with the right guidance and persistence. This newfound knowledge has made me a stronger and more well-rounded individual, capable of handling a wide range of academic and professional challenges.
In summary, navigating academic challenges is a journey filled with ups and downs. It is essential to stay resilient, prioritize personal goals, and maintain a focus on growth and improvement. By following these principles, we can turn obstacles into stepping stones to success and fulfillment.