Overcoming Challenges in My Life: Dyslexia

Overcoming adversity is a universal human experience, and for me, one of the most significant challenges has been embracing my dyslexia. I vividly recall the day I was diagnosed with dyslexia, a moment that occurred during my second-grade year. Back then, the term held little meaning for me, and I couldn't comprehend how it would label me as someone with a learning disability. When my mother gently explained that my learning process was distinct from that of other second-graders, she emphasized the need for determination and hard work to succeed. In this college essay about dyslexia I want to share my experience dealing with this diagnosis.

Yet, as I progressed through school, my struggle with dyslexia cast a shadow over my academic journey. My peers taunted me for my difficulties in reading, causing me to develop a strong aversion to it. The fear, embarrassment, and panic that accompanied being called upon to read aloud during class were overwhelming. Witnessing my classmates' reactions as I stumbled over words, reversed them, and stuttered while attempting to decipher them only heightened my self-consciousness. Writing, too, became a frustrating endeavor as my constant misspellings hindered the clarity of my thoughts. Friends tried to assist me, but their efforts often exacerbated my emotions. I found myself repeatedly revisiting reading and writing assignments, a laborious process that left me frustrated, as I longed to complete them with just two readings.

Throughout my childhood, people around me praised my intelligence and extroverted nature. However, there were moments when I questioned these affirmations, believing them to be mere attempts to boost my self-esteem. It was in fifth grade that I encountered a remarkable teacher who truly understood my struggles and provided the additional support I needed to navigate the final year of elementary school. Her guidance marked a turning point in my reading and writing journey, enabling significant progress.

As I progressed to my sophomore year of high school, new challenges emerged. I embarked on a semester of study in Washington, D.C., attending one of the city's top schools while my mother pursued a fellowship there. I pushed myself to excel, and I proudly earned "A" and "B" grades in my courses. However, English remained my most formidable subject, particularly when tasked with writing papers. I received a "C" on one assignment, leading me to question whether my dyslexia was becoming a hindrance. The teacher's increasingly demanding in-class essay assignments further intensified my struggles, as my thoughts failed to coalesce clearly. At times, I feared I couldn't keep up or succeed in her class.

Nevertheless, I sought tutoring and persevered. In my subsequent paper, I achieved a "B," a source of personal pride. My diligence paid off, as I consistently earned higher grades, demonstrating that my efforts were yielding results.

Today, as a college student, I reflect upon a quote: "To think of dyslexia as a learning disability is to misunderstand it. My dyslexia and dysgraphia… are the reason I am a keen listener, have strong verbal skills, and a vivid imagination." My learning disability has undeniably posed challenges, and I continue to grapple with reading and writing. However, I have harnessed the power of accommodations to meet my academic objectives. My dyslexia has taught me the value of confidence, resilience, and self-advocacy. Ultimately, I have come to appreciate that life's challenges are opportunities for growth and self-improvement.