Learning Disabilities throughout Life
Learning disabilities do not disappear in adulthood. If you have a learning disability, it doesn't mean you are unable to learn-you may just need to adjust the way you learn. Successfully coping with a learning disability involves knowing your disability, being able to communicate this understanding to others, and becoming your own advocate. This ensures that you receive the necessary accommodations in any environment. Advocating for yourself is critical if you intend to pursue employment or additional education.
Learning how to describe your disability is the first step in becoming your own advocate. To do so, you should identify:
- The history and characteristics of your learning disability.
- The type of environment that maximizes your ability to work or learn. (Be flexible and identify as many strategies as necessary to create the best possible environment.) For example, if you are an auditory learner (that is, you learn what you hear), you may want to bring a tape recorder to lectures so you can replay them.
- Your own academic and personal strengths and vulnerabilities.
