Yes, having dyslexia is a disability, but I don’t treat it as one. Like I said before, I think it’s a super power, not an excuse. My brain just works differently than other people and that can help in certain aspects. I can be more creative. I can think outside the box. I can see things differently than other people. I think that’s cool.
The only thing dyslexia complicates with volleyball is the scouting report. I spend more time reading it, studying it, watching film. It’s the same as studying for school. If anything, it’s probably made me a better athlete because I’m able to just go play and be free and be like everyone else. It’s a gift God gave me.
The worst part about having dyslexia is how time consuming it can be. Sometimes I’m sitting there for 3½ hours doing exams. But I’ve gotten used to that. That’s normal to me now. I’ve gotten very good at time management.
I’ll never get to a point where I’ve got my dyslexia figured out, but I’m not intimidated by it.
I read that one in every six persons has dyslexia and most just don’t know it. To my knowledge, no other UW student-athlete has it, which is amazing to me.
For those who have been diagnosed, my advice is simple. First, you’re going to have work really, really hard. It’s going to be difficult and you’re going to have to put in a lot of time if you want to succeed. From time to time, you’ll doubt yourself. But if you create the work ethic, you can do it.
Second, advocate for yourself to teachers and professors who might not get it. Go in for extra office and study time. Try to make them understand your challenges. All you’re asking for is a level playing field and you can get it. The most important part about overcoming dyslexia is knowing how you learn.
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Wisconsin Badgers…