Failure is often seen as a setback, but in reality, it can be one of the greatest catalysts for growth. My experiences in PSYC 221: Research Methods in Psychology and the Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) program taught me that true success requires accountability, structured planning, and swift action in the face of challenges. Through both academic and leadership experiences, I learned the importance of self-discipline, humility, and the ability to course-correct when necessary.

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Friends who have taken PSYC 221 before me had advised me that this was a difficult course for them and for many students as well. Ultimately, I made a choice to ignore their advice and continue to assume that success would come easily. My lack of preparation for the midterm exam resulted in a disappointing grade of 66%. This was a wake-up call, as I had set an ambitious goal of graduating summa cum laude, which requires a GPA of 3.95 or higher. Determined to turn things around, I developed a structured study plan for the final exam, reviewing past exams each night leading up to the test. This disciplined approach paid off, as I earned a 98% on the final and secured an A in the class. This experience reinforced the necessity of creating a clear plan after setbacks and taking full responsibility for my academic performance. Similarly, in AFROTC, I had to develop mental fortitude when faced with leadership challenges.

 

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In my role for a Senior year position in AFROTC, I would give speeches to my training group as a motivational boost for morale. We have Physical Training (PT) during early mornings throughout the week solely dedicated to improving physical fitness. One day, I gave a speech after PT regarding the importance of fitness and how I feel like leaders might lose credibility if not in shape offended some of my subordinates. My intentions were to make my training group understand the importance of working out. Instead, I was reported to the student chain of command and was formally counseled. The highest-ranking student leader in the program told me, “You are at a point where a lot of people make or break it in the real world. Are you going to sink or swim?” I had to mentally process the consequences of my actions, remain composed, and use this experience as a learning opportunity rather than feeling defeated and pitying myself for losing the trust of my subordinates. After realizing that my words had upset some of my team members I had to rebuild their trust. This moment taught me that leadership is about more than giving orders—it is about fostering connections, understanding other people’s perspectives, and ensuring that every member of the team feels valued. In PSYC 221, I learned a similar lesson. After struggling with the midterm, I recognized that academic success is not solely an individual effort. I engaged in study groups, sought guidance from my professor, and connected with peers to strengthen my understanding of the material. These connections helped reinforce my learning, much like how rebuilding trust within my AFROTC team.

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The lessons from both PSYC 221 and AFROTC are deeply connected through the pillars of resilience. My academic struggles highlighted the importance of mental discipline and structured planning, while my leadership challenges emphasized the necessity of accountability and social awareness. In both cases, I was forced to confront my shortcomings, make immediate adjustments, and push myself beyond my initial expectations. Ultimately, these experiences shaped my understanding of success. The ability to reflect, adapt, and push forward in the face of failure is what defines true success. Through resilience—mentally, socially, and spiritually—I learned that setbacks are not the end but rather stepping stones to becoming a stronger, more capable individual.