<p>I’m a semifinalist and im just looking for some feedback on my potential essay. Your not gonna shatter my delicate soul by telling me its god awful wretched so be honest.</p>
<p>My sophomore year had a profound effect not only on my attitude towards school, but my attitude towards life. From the information contained in other sections of this application, you can discern that it was hardly a proud period in my academic career. Frankly, it was miserable and embarrassing. I have no explanation as to why I failed to fulfill my potential other than lack of focus, apathy, and an unwarranted and excessive confidence in my natural abilities. I reaped what I sowed and it was a sharp reality-check. Academically, I had bottomed-out. I came to understand just how poor my work ethic had become. However, I resolved not to resign myself to let my GPA continue to decline or stagnate my junior year. Asking more questions, focusing in on concepts, and allowing more time for study helped bolster my grades far above where they had been a year earlier. But I believe I can do better. Now, after seeing where greater effort can lead, I am more open to challenge both in and out of the classroom. For example, I took up tennis my sophomore year, but put zero effort into it until the following summer. I played virtually every day. Last year I was rewarded with a regular varsity spot. Not content, I kept up practicing and continue to do so today. This year I have a very realistic shot of earning a berth at the state tournament. There is no longer room in my life for the lethargy that ruled me in the past. I am not who I was, but who I am. Life seems less daunting knowing that my newfound drive will be invaluable, whatever path I go down.</p>