Growth a GPA can't measure by Mary

Growth a GPA can't measure by Mary - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

As a freshman, I set a goal to push myself by maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Partway through my sophomore year, my family moved to Texas. The curriculum was very different, and I soon realized that I was not only already behind on the semester's classwork but also had gaps in my understanding. Compared to my straight-A freshman year, I found classes more challenging and my time more limited between sports, school, and clubs. I worked hard to catch up, but ultimately fell short of my goal.

I was disappointed after failing to earn a 4.0, but rather than letting my failure shape me, I assessed my actions and goals. I adapted to not only push myself academically, but also to focus on my overall growth in Texas. I took more ownership of my learning and adjusted my study habits. I became more efficient and also more passionate about what I was learning. Better relationships with my teachers and classmates helped me enjoy learning and enhanced my overall experience at school. I began to appreciate others’ experiences, opinions, and perspectives. I learned to collaborate with others and grow together. As I became more involved in school clubs, I became more satisfied. I started a new job and found the value of a positive attitude. As I joined my new swim team, I learned how to support others in their struggles and celebrate their successes. I began to relize that strengths and talents are not all measured the same. My new goals allowed me to measure my success on a different scale than my GPA, like my contribution to those around me and who I want to become. I enjoyed my family’s move to Texas more and became a better student at the same time. While I had failed to reach my surface-level academic goals as a sophomore, I learned to set more substantial goals. I gained greater confidence and individual worth. The ability to adapt and grow is a skill that means more to me than a 4.0 ever could and will continue to bless me throughout my life.