“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.” – Albert Einstein
My Story
Several weeks after I was born, I was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis. Neurofibromatosis causes tumors to form on nerve tissues throughout my entire body. Growing up, I had multiple MRI scans, blood tests, and countless specialized doctors appointments, as well as multiple surgeries throughout my body. From fourth grade to eighth grade, I had at least one surgery a month. As an adult, I had over 100 tumors removed. It wasn’t easy showing up to school with bandages all over my face and having kids make fun of me and call me names. However, name calling was never my biggest challenge; it was school. I remember having difficulties reading and studying throughout my elementary and high school years. I was blessed to receive tutoring and speech therapy in order to manage my academic challenges. I studied hard, but it never seemed to be “good enough”. Despite studying to the best of my ability, I still received below average grades throughout my academic career. I remember the heartbreak in hearing my parents discuss their concern on whether I would even graduate high school, let alone get into college. To this day, I still remember the feeling of hopelessness and wondering whether or not I will have a successful life.
After barely graduating high school, I decided to move to San Jose to start fresh at a local junior college. Junior college wasn’t easy, but I did manage to transfer to a 4 year college. It wasn’t until my third year of college that I was finally diagnosed with Dyslexia and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. Receiving the diagnosis changed my life. I had specialized tutors who taught me how to study and learn the way that best suited my learning style. I accepted my learning disabilities and received the help I needed by attending workshops and study groups.
My academic struggles shaped who I am as a Speech and Language Pathologist. I know first hand that every child has his or her own learning style and it is my job to teach them in a way that best suits their abilities. It is important to me that each child embraces their unique qualities.
I share this personal story because I want to reassure those who feel discouraged or hopeless that there is light on the other side of the tunnel. It took hard work for me to get to where I am today. My degrees were not handed to me on a silver platter. I learned the necessary tools to help me become successful. I am thankful that I experienced the academic struggles during my childhood years as well as in college because if I hadn’t, I wouldn’t be a Speech and Language Pathologist today.
