Final answer:
A personal example of persisting in a challenging situation was during college, where securing internships and fellowships was highly competitive. This was overcome by demonstrating grit and determination, even when performing basic tasks, leading to acquiring valuable experience and knowledge.
Step-by-step explanation:
Persisting in Challenging Situations
Reflecting on personal experiences, there was a time during college when the challenge was to secure multiple internships and fellowships, integral parts of the educational journey at Columbia University. The major obstacle faced was the competitive nature of acquiring these placements; many students were aiming for a limited number of positions. The primary action taken was to exhibit a strong work ethic, including being willing to perform seemingly menial tasks such as fetching coffee or lunch for colleagues. Though these tasks might seem insignificant, they allowed for opportunities to learn by reading important documents like contracts and licenses.
A key factor that contributed to the resilience in this situation was the understanding of the concept of grit, defined as personal perseverance towards a task or goal. By displaying grit and determination, I not only succeeded in securing the necessary internships but also gained valuable knowledge and firsthand experience in the field. Ultimately, these actions resulted in bolstering my resume and skill set, which have been beneficial in my professional journey.