Reading by Mckenna

Reading by Mckenna - February 2017 Scholarship Essay

Reading. Reading is one of our favourite pastime activities. Whether it be scrolling through social media or reading on fashion on paper. When I was younger I couldn't read or spell. I would fail all my spelling test and couldn't read above a first grade level in third grade. My teacher I personally feel like never called me to read or write on the board cause I didn't necessarily know how. Every now and then my teacher would send a note home with me, however I would fail to show my parents the note. I remember my mom trying to sit and read with me, this process would take hours. I would sit and look at this four page book and cry because I didn't know the first word in the book. My mom and I would do this every school night for a couple months before she finally got an email from my teacher say something was wrong with me. She told my mom about how my spelling and reading test I have failed that year so far, how I was behind on all the class readings. She then said I will not be passing the third grade if I do not go to summer school.My teacher also suggested since I failed so many reaidng and spelling test that I get tested for learning disorders. My mom then enrolled me into summer school along with getting me tested for learning disorders that next month.
    Once into the doctor testing me for the learning disorders he went over the early signs that some students show. Such as; difficulty with reading and/or writing, problems with math skills, difficulty remembering, problems paying attention, trouble following directions, poor coordination, difficulty with concepts related to time, problems staying organized. I bet I thought to myself no way, that's not me. Looking back I remember having all these signs of a learning disorder. I imagine my parents saw them too and that's probably why they weren't as surprised when the test results came back as me being diagnosed with, dyslexia, ADHD, and ADD.
    Looking back at being in third grade I remember it being one of the most difficult times of my school life. I remember feeling terrible for failing all those spelling test and reading test. Sitting trying to read with my mom for hours and getting so worked up that I would burst into tears. After I was diagnosed I was put on learning medication. To this day I am still on the medication. I believe nearly failing the third grade made me the person I am today. I learned that I have to work hard for the things I want. While being in school I know I have to work twice has hard then most student because of my disabilities. Like when we take multiple choice test in school I take so much longer than most because it still takes me a while to comprehend what I am reading. I just have to work so hard to make sure I get what I deserve for working hard. I won't let a failed grade define who I am. I believe nearly failing the third grade help me in the long run, it made me realize how hard I have to work for things in my life.
    Today I am now 18 years old and a senior in high school. I don't let my disabilities define who I am. I now love to read and read about a book a month. Reading has also helped me be the person I am today. It helps me by making a stronger reader, by having this I become a better speller. I work so hard in school to not let one failed grade in get in my way. Working hard and dedicating my time to doing homework and reading I become a better person, a stronger person.