Learning to Think Beyond Memorization: How Organic Chemistry Strengthened My Critical Thinking Skills by Dylon

Learning to Think Beyond Memorization: How Organic Chemistry Strengthened My Critical Thinking Skills by Dylon - July 2026 Scholarship Essay

In my early days of learning chemistry, I used to assume that success is about memorizing data and formulas. But, during the course of my studies in science, I came to realize that some disciplines demand a lot more from their students beyond mere memorization. Among the first academic areas that taught me that problem solving requires something else than just memory was organic chemistry.

This discipline is quite challenging due to the fact that it teaches us things that we were not familiar with before. Knowing molecular structure and the reaction processes of various compounds demanded some new thinking from me. At first, I found myself unable to cope with these challenges because I had been accustomed to using only one method of studying – reviewing notes. It became apparent to me that I need to understand why reactions occurred and how different factors influenced the outcomes.

This task pushed me to acquire some effective ways of learning. I devoted more time to solving problems, drawing the molecular structure, and explaining it myself. Rather than memorizing everything I was given, I became more curious about the material. I asked such questions as: why does this chemical reaction take place? How is the molecule modified? How can I apply my knowledge to the solution of this problem? Such approach helped me progress from learning information to understanding it.

In this way, organic chemistry helped me become a better thinker. I understood that complicated problems should be solved by means of splitting them into several components and considering each part separately. This skill has proven to be extremely useful not only for the field of chemistry, but for other branches of my studies as well. Regardless of whether I am working in biology, biochemistry or planning a future career as a physician, I need to analyze information carefully.

What I have learned in organic chemistry classes has also affected my attitude towards challenges. Rather than getting disheartened by hard topics, I now consider a challenge as an opportunity to enhance myself. Having difficulties with something does not indicate failure, but rather gives me an opportunity to find better approaches and improve myself. With this attitude, I became more persistent and able to work hard enough to reach my objectives.

I am a Biochemistry student at the University of New Mexico. I want to go to medical school. I know that to be a doctor I need to be able to think really well and make good decisions. A doctor has to look at a lot of information think about what it means and make choices that will affect their patients life. My organic chemistry classes have helped me get ready for this.

I took chemistry and it was not easy.. It was more than just a hard class. It was something that changed the way I study and think about things. I learned that it is not about getting the right answer. It is about understanding how you got that answer. When I finally understood chemistry I got better at thinking critically and I felt more confident when solving tough problems. The things I learned in chemistry will help me throughout my time in school and my career as a doctor, in the healthcare field. Organic chemistry was a challenge but it helped me become a better student and it will help me become a better doctor.