The Need for Academic Discipline

Academic and Financial Aid Appeal

Over the past two semesters, I have faced a series of challenges that have profoundly affected my academic performance.

First, a major unexpected issue occurred when my family faced financial difficulties. My father lost his job unexpectedly due to the company downsizing, and my mother, who was already working part-time, had to transition to a full-time position to try to compensate for the loss. Everyone else tried to chip in whenever and however they could just to keep the family from falling behind on bills. Our family was totally caught off guard by this sudden change, and even I found myself trying pick up more hours so that I could help my parents out in this difficult situation. In addition to my full course, I was very much bursting at the seams in terms of pushing myself to the limit. The unforeseen financial struggles became a heavy burden that ate away at the time I previously dedicated to studying.

Then, during the fall semester, another situation arose when a very close childhood friend of mine back home began to struggle with severe mental health issues. My friend was hit hard with depression and anxiety, and his family reached out to me, saying that he had specifically asked for me and seemed to respond positively when I was around. I found myself torn now between the need to support my friend during this crucial period, taking on extra work when I could, and my academic responsibilities. In between classes and assignments, I would drive long hours back home to spend time with him, trying to lift his spirits and assure him he wasn't alone in his struggle. The unexpected nature of this crisis and the emotional toll it took on me was overwhelming. Then I hit a breaking point with my grandmother’s illness.

On top of everything that was going on, my grandmother's illness hit me like a tidal wave during the spring of 2021 semester. The news of her deteriorating health came at the peak of my academic stress, further complicating an already dire situation. When she revealed the few months she had left, it felt like my world collapsed. I spiraled into a deep depression, unable to concentrate on anything but her impending loss. She was my rock, my confidant, and her passing left an enormous void. My academic performance slipped dramatically as a result of my grief and inability to focus.

As I mourned her loss, my grades plummeted, and I landed on academic probation. However, the process of healing from these setbacks allowed me to reflect on my situation, giving me new insights and resolve to improve my academic standing.

Despite the immense challenges I have faced, I am committed to turning my situation around. I have developed a detailed plan to ensure my success moving forward. I've arranged to reduce my work hours and have secured some financial aid to lessen the burden on my family and allow me to focus more on my studies. Furthermore, I have enlisted the help of a physical therapist to expedite my recovery process.

I am now tapping into the support systems offered by the university, something I hadn't done before. I am actively seeking guidance from professors and have started to utilize campus resources like tutoring and study groups. I have also built a disciplined study routine, with set hours for review and homework, and have set realistic goals for my academic progress.