As a second-grader at Catholic School in Webster Groves, Missouri, I encountered multiple challenges that made it difficult for me to succeed. Our class was too large, and only one teacher was responsible for 52 students. As a result, students like me were not given the attention and resources we needed to perform well.
One of the biggest obstacles I faced was spelling. I often had to sit down first during our weekly spelling bee, which left me feeling embarrassed and ashamed. Throughout elementary and secondary school, I felt “dumb and stupid.” However, it wasn’t until I was 35 years old and attending college that I discovered I had dyslexia.
Once diagnosed, I received accommodations like extended time on tests, a quiet environment to take tests, and recorded textbooks. However, only one teacher taught me the way I learn with dyslexia and made a significant difference in my life. With his help, I learned how to overcome obstacles and succeed.
During my pursuit and achievement of a PhD, I discovered that dyslexia is often associated with high intelligence. This realization could have saved me from years of pain and emotional distress. Later, I was diagnosed with an auditory processing disorder, which makes it difficult for me to distinguish between vowels and consonants. This often leads me to ask people to repeat themselves.
Despite these challenges, I have learned to cope with my disabilities and feel that they have made me a stronger person. Sharing my story has become a source of inspiration for others who may be struggling with similar issues. I believe that no one should feel embarrassed or ashamed because of a learning disability. With the right support and resources, anyone can succeed.