#MyDyslexiaStory: Scarlett Rowswell
Wednesday 17 November 2021
When I was 14, I was diagnosed with dyslexia during my GCSEs. I've always struggled with finishing essays on time, visual and spelling tasks, and math skills during exams. My English teacher was the first to realise I was dyslexic due to my lack of being able to spell.
It has had a more positive impact on me than challenging. Dyslexia is like having a superpower; you can see the big picture and see things that others cannot. However, some difficulties are associated with dyslexia, such as the fact that I was never able to keep up in class. I also disliked the fact that we had to read in class sometimes, which harmed my self-esteem at times.
The right support makes all the difference
I've received a lot of help since being diagnosed. For example, in my GCSE and A levels, I was given an additional 25% time, as well as a green overlay and paper to help me read better. They have installed ‘ReciteMe' at my workplace, which means my screen can be green!
My proudest moment
I was most proud of myself when I decided to take French GCSE outside of school, on Monday and Thursday evenings, in my own time. I expected to struggle with this because I struggled to read and write English, let alone French, but I managed to get a 6 (B). I am now working in a Construction Firm in HR and I am hoping to start to write my own blog about the Apprentice Route and inspire others.
My advice for someone who has recently been diagnosed with dyslexia:
Everyone is unique in their own way! Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that should be accepted in today's society.
“Dyslexia is not a pigeonhole to say you can’t do anything. It is an opportunity and a possibility to learn differently. You have magical brains, they just process differently. Don’t feel like you should be held back by it.” -Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice