Dear Mrs./Mr.,

We regret to inform you that your daughter is at risk of failing multiple classes. Please schedule a meeting to discuss her options and the course of action you would like us to take.

Sincerely,

School Administration

As a child, I was raised on a diet of NPR and Annie's Macaroni and Cheese. I loved to read Junie B. Jones and Harry Potter but struggled to read social cues and comprehend word problems. It wasn't until I was well into elementary school that my weaknesses regarding my lack of spatial awareness and inability to "get" math were given a label . . . Non-Verbal Learning Disorder.

As I struggled within the classroom, my parents worked relentlessly to convince my teachers that in order to truly blossom, I would need an IEP (Individualized Education Plan).

As I entered middle school, I had teachers who didn't understand that a disability doesn't dictate one's ability to learn. I had some who didn't believe that getting extra time on a test would actually be beneficial. I had others who would get frustrated when I requested that larger tasks be broken down into more manageable segments. Many doubted my intelligence because I couldn't memorize textbooks verbatim and spew out correct answers on multiple choice tests.

Regardless of how hard I tried, I began to doubt myself as well as my abilities. I began to believe that I was dumb or that something was wrong with me. I didn't fully realize until later on, that it wasn't me. It was the lack of support and empathy I was given despite my strong work ethic and utmost attempts to please.

When I began my journey as a high school student, I had gained confidence in myself and knew that I was smart and that I had a purpose. Unfortunately, some of those feelings were short lived. Even though I had relinquished many of my initial accommodations, I still needed assistance every once in a while. Sadly, I was faced with authority figures who tried to bring me down rather than help build me up. As it came time to getting ready to apply for colleges, I was encouraged if not brainwashed to believe that the only college I could possibly get into would be our local community college.

I was discouraged from challenging myself, which in turn made me even more determined to prove my teachers wrong. I've known for a long time that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. Yes, some things might take longer for me to understand, but who cares? Each individual learns differently, but different doesn't nor should it ever mean, "wrong".

I felt like those who were supposed to be helping me were actually in some ways hindering my ability to truly thrive and succeed in the long run.

I didn't score too well on my SAT's but got a near perfect score on the writing section.

I didn't get a 5 on my AP Exams, but learned that I was able to take a college level course, work hard and end up with an A.

I didn't apply to our local community college even though it was deemed an expectation.

I did, however, apply, get into and just recently graduate with a Bachelor of Arts from Ursinus College, a four year institution, with my IEP as nothing but a distant memory, a diploma grasped firmly in my hands and a triumphant smile on my face.

I used to think that some of my teachers were only trying to bring me down and deter me from achieving my dreams.

I now realize, that I have proven to them, but more importantly to myself that I CAN, I HAVE and I WILL do anything I set my mind to and can overcome any obstacles that I face in my life.

So, thank you. Thank you for inspiring me to believe in myself (even though you didn't) and learn to accept that I am not limited.

I am limitless, so watch me shine.