Q. What are some misconceptions people have about dyslexia? 

A. That we are stupid. That we are lazy, that we all use it as an excuse. Yes, there may be people who use Dyslexia as an excuse, but that's not because of their Dyslexia, that is because they are lazy and don't have much of a drive. Don't put us all in that box. 



Q. What are some of the positive characteristics dyslexia gives you? 

A. It makes me be more thoughtful in my work, checking over the little things, working to do my best in school. It's also made me better at talking to teachers and public speaking. I also consider myself as a creative person, someone who will thrive in non-traditional projects and I love music and art. 



Q. What are some things your dyslexia makes hard for you? 

A. Reading. It has always been hard, and I've never wanted to read because I struggled since I was little. 



Q. How does dyslexia negatively effect you in a classroom setting?

A. Sometimes it deters me from talking in class because along with dyslexia, I have slow processing. In discussions I sometimes have a hard time following along with the conversation.



Q. What kind of accommodations do you use in class and how do they help you maximize your learning? 

A. I use a computer, a calculator, all the basics. They just help with the little things, the things I have trouble seeing. Like misspellings and calculations that I would completely skip over because I'm not great at those types of details. 



Q. Have the majority of your teachers been good at making sure you get your accommodations? 

A. Over the years my teachers have been accommodating whether it be about extra time, extra help, or whatnot. I've learned though it's hard to get what you need if you don't advocate. 



Q. Has there been a time where someone such as a teacher or another student has disputed your accommodations? 

A. Yes. One time I asked for extra time on a project because I was struggling and I wanted to do the best I could and I knew the time she gave wouldn't be sufficient for me. When I didn't have it by the time it was really do, she called my mother and accused me of cheating. That was the worst feeling, to want to do your best, get the ok, and then get it taken away from you.



Q. What strategies or assistance have you taken advantage of in combating against the negative aspects of your learning difference? 

A. I have learned that I really need to get a dialogue going with my teachers. I may not always be good at it, but I've been working on it a lot, especially through my high school years. I've learned talking to teachers will get you wherever you need to get because they want to see you thrive, because it is obvious you are trying hard. 



Q. Are you proud to have dyslexia? Why or why not? 

A. Yes, I am very proud. Mostly because I don't know what I would be like without it. With Dyslexia, I've learned how to speak in front of crowds, advocate, inspire, mentor and so much more. It's made me a better person and without it I don't know where I would be. Frankly, I don't think I would be as motivated in school if I didn't have dyslexia.



Q. What kind of technology helps you combat your dyslexia? 

A. My computer is my life saver. Spell check especially on papers, my calculator too for those little careless errors. I also have used books on tape on and off since I was little, and recently I've realized how helpful it truly is when trying to process the story and themes, not just getting through the book.



Q. If you had the ability to get rid of your dyslexia would you? Why or why not? 

A. No, never. Sure it would be interesting to see who I would be without it, but it has made me grow. Like I said before, its been such a big part of my life. I've been able to get so involved with the community and I love helping people who have struggled like me, and I want them to know they aren't alone.