From Chaos to Order: How a Calendar Changed My Academic Trajectory by Jaden

From Chaos to Order: How a Calendar Changed My Academic Trajectory by Jaden - February 2026 Scholarship Essay

Habits are learned behaviors; without learning, we do not grow as individuals. Therefore, it is important to always look for ways to improve yourself and your daily routine. One small habit that has helped me personally is using planning apps and software. Prior to changing my routine, I depended on my memory to keep track of due dates and to-do lists. However, over time, I realized that there is only so much information the brain can process or remember at once. I realized that relying solely on my personal recollection would not be sufficient for a successful future.
As a result, I downloaded Google Calendar on all of my devices. If I am being honest, Google Calendar sat empty for weeks after I first came up with the idea. I began to regret not using my calendar when one day I showed up to school and was surprised to find that I had an Economics test. I began to recognize the problem with relying only on my brain: it would adjust my to-do list based on what I wanted to do, not what I needed to do.
After that Economics test, I knew that my time management problem had to be solved immediately. That same night, I gathered all of my syllabi and entered all important dates into my calendar. A week before each due date, my calendar now sends me a reminder, which helps me allocate my week accordingly. In addition, I have become more prepared for tests because I now know when I am free from prior commitments.
It took an Economics test for me to learn this lesson, but the best habits are formed when you choose to grow. Creating and consistently using my Google Calendar has defined my academic success throughout high school, as I am now prepared for every obstacle that may come my way. My calendar strategy helped me move up to rank number nine at school, and it became clear how much I benefited from an organized schedule.