Explain how you responded to a problem and/or an unfamiliar situation. What did you do, what was the outcome, and what did you learn from the experience? (maximum 200 words)
Adjusting to a new school is always a challenge. In my grade 7 year, I had to leave behind longtime friends and teachers whom I admired. To my frustration, my parents insisted it was in my best interest. Walking into school on the first day was terrifying; my introverted personality coupled with the fact that I knew no one made for a nerve-wracking experience. I simply had to focus on one day at a time, and I eventually settled in at my new school. I managed to make a few close friends, and I met plenty of interesting people. However, my parents soon informed me that I would be changing schools again the very next year. I was incensed, but I soon discovered that this time was different. The experience I had gained …show more content…
It has always been an academic strength of mine, but only in recent years have I pursued this passion outside of the classroom. A likeminded math teacher I connected with years ago introduced me to the world of math competitions. They spiked my interest, and I nervously signed up for one of the more prestigious contests. A few months later, I placed second among my peers in a national competition. Facing some of the brightest students in my school, my competitive nature kept me on edge. Although it has taken years to hone my problem-solving skills, expanding my mathematical knowledge has been an exciting experience. Always trying to improve on my previous results, these competitions have allowed me to combine my passion for math with my love of competition. These endeavors have enhanced my knowledge of the field, since I have been able to apply concepts I learn to the real world. The way I am challenged with practical problems instead of theoretical expressions is something that fuels my love of