Dyslexia and math by Victoria

Dyslexia and math by Victoria - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Grace Ralston, and I am a rising freshman at Missouri State University, where I will be majoring in Mathematics. Reflecting on my academic journey, one challenging experience stands out that has significantly shaped who I am today.

When I was in third grade, I was diagnosed with dyslexia. Reading and writing were particularly difficult for me, and I often felt frustrated and discouraged. Thankfully, I was enrolled in a specialized program designed to help students with dyslexia. This program taught me strategies to manage my learning differences and develop skills that would support my academic success.

One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was in high school, during my sophomore year math class. Although math is generally less reliant on reading, word problems and complex instructions can still be challenging. We were tasked with a project that involved applying mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios, and this required a lot of reading and comprehension.

Initially, I struggled to understand the problem statements and instructions. I knew that to succeed, I needed to apply the skills I had learned in my dyslexia program. I began by breaking down the project into smaller, more manageable parts, focusing on one section at a time. I used visual aids and diagrams to help me understand the math concepts and how they applied to the scenarios.

I also reached out to my teacher for guidance. She was incredibly supportive and provided additional resources that helped clarify the project requirements. Working with classmates was another strategy I employed. By discussing the project with peers, I was able to gain new insights and perspectives, which helped me approach the problems more effectively.

Technology also played a crucial role in overcoming this challenge. I used text-to-speech software to listen to the problem statements, which helped me better understand the instructions. Additionally, I utilized online math tools to visualize complex equations and concepts, making them easier to grasp.

Despite these efforts, there were times when I felt overwhelmed and doubted my abilities. However, I reminded myself of the progress I had made since third grade and the skills I had developed. Each small victory, whether it was solving a part of the problem or understanding a new concept, motivated me to keep going.

Completing the project was a significant achievement for me. It not only demonstrated my ability to apply mathematical concepts but also reinforced my confidence in overcoming academic challenges. My teacher commended my perseverance and creativity, and I received positive feedback from my classmates.

This experience taught me valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of seeking support. It showed me that my dyslexia, while challenging, does not define my capabilities. Instead, it has taught me to approach problems with creativity and determination.

As I embark on my college journey, I am aware that there will be new challenges to face. However, I am prepared to tackle them with the same determination and resourcefulness that have guided me through high school. I am excited to delve deeper into mathematics and explore the diverse opportunities that await me at Missouri State University.

In conclusion, overcoming the challenge of a complex math project with dyslexia was a transformative experience. It taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of finding strategies that work for me. I am grateful for the support I received and the lessons I learned, and I am confident that I will continue to grow and thrive in my academic endeavors.