My Literacy Autobiography

The Butterfly Effect: That Time I Almost Gave Up on Biology

The idea that a single decision can drastically alter the course of our lives is a powerful one. It's something I've often pondered, especially when reading stories like "The Other Wes Moore," where seemingly small choices lead to vastly different outcomes. While I haven't faced life-altering decisions with the same gravity as Wes Moore, there's one particular choice that stands out in my memory, a moment where I almost veered off the path that led me to where I am today.

As a biology major at New Jersey City University, I'm fascinated by the intricacies of life, the complex mechanisms that govern living organisms. But my journey to becoming a biology student wasn't a straightforward one. In fact, there was a time in high school when I almost gave up on science altogether.

I've always loved animals and been curious about the natural world. As a kid, I spent hours exploring the nearby park, collecting insects, and poring over nature documentaries. But when I hit high school, science suddenly seemed to lose its magic. The classes became more demanding, the concepts more abstract, and I struggled to keep up.

Chemistry, in particular, was a major hurdle. I just couldn't wrap my head around the periodic table, the chemical equations, and the seemingly endless formulas. My grades started to slip, and my confidence plummeted. I began to doubt my abilities and question whether science was really the right path for me.

At that point, I seriously considered switching my focus to the humanities. I'd always enjoyed English and history, and I excelled in those subjects. Maybe I was meant to be a writer or a historian, I thought. Maybe science was just too difficult, too demanding.But then something happened that changed my perspective. I had the opportunity to volunteer at a local animal shelter.  Surrounded by animals in need, I felt a renewed sense of purpose.  I witnessed firsthand the fragility of life and the importance of understanding the biological processes that keep us healthy. 

One particular experience solidified my decision to stick with science.  A small, injured bird was brought to the shelter, its wing broken. I watched as the veterinarian carefully examined the bird, explaining the delicate bone structure and the healing process.  The vet's knowledge and compassion, combined with the bird's resilience, ignited a spark within me.  I realized that science wasn't just about abstract concepts and complicated formulas. It was about using that knowledge to understand and care for living creatures. It was about making a real difference in the world.

From that moment on, my attitude towards science shifted. I approached my studies with renewed enthusiasm, seeking help from my teachers and classmates when needed. I started to see the connections between the concepts I was learning and the real-world applications.  Slowly but surely, my grades improved, and my confidence grew.

Looking back, I realize that my decision to stick with science, despite the challenges, was a pivotal one. It shaped my academic path, my career aspirations, and ultimately, my identity. Had I given up on biology back then, I wouldn't be where I am today, pursuing my passion for understanding the living world.

The experience also taught me the importance of perseverance, of pushing through challenges even when things get tough. It reinforced the idea that our choices, big and small, can have a profound impact on our lives. And while we can't always predict the consequences of our decisions, we can trust our instincts, follow our passions, and embrace the journey, wherever it may lead.