The Story of Lenka with Specific Learning Difficulties












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            I am a student at the Faculty of Education, Charles University, with specific learning nee

            first grade, I have been diagnosed with dyslexia and dysorthographia. In my case, this mea
            pace combined with greater effort needed to concentrate on text. I also struggle with spel
            affects my written work, and I write more slowly than most of my classmates.


            Naturally, I addressed the conditions of the entrance exams. For me, it was crucial to hav
            reading and writing, which allowed me to work more calmly. I had no problem requesting an 

            time limit. I provided a certificate from the Pedagogical-Psychological Counseling Centre 
            accepted without issue. I was subsequently admitted to two bachelor’s double majors focuse

            ZSV-D and ZSV-TV, both of which I enrolled in.

            In order to apply for study modifications, I had to undergo a functional diagnosis at the 

            is definitely not an evaluation of whether or not a student “deserves” the modification. R
            friendly conversation in which the student explains their needs and the modifications that
            while a specialist assesses what the faculty and university can offer to support them.


            I mainly used my study modification during written exams, where I requested extended time 
            instructors. It’s important to realize that each instructor has many students, so you cann

            automatically know about students with specific learning disabilities and their needs. Tha
            approached each instructor before such exams to request extra time, either in person or by
            encountered any issues—every instructor was accommodating and supportive.


            Another crucial aspect of studying—without which everything becomes much more difficult—is
            having friendly relationships with classmates. That’s why I highly recommend participating

            courses. I was lucky to have wonderful classmates. Since I often couldn’t keep up with tak
            needed help from my peers. That’s when I began using a study assistant. My assistant was m
            classmate, who took notes during lectures and then shared them with me.


            The hardest part of my studies was definitely preparing for the final state exams. Studyin
            because I had to invest much more time than my classmates. What worked very well for me wa

            learning (read, write, read aloud). And when writing both of my bachelor’s theses, my assi
            helped me tremendously by proofreading them for grammar.


            I successfully completed both bachelor’s programs. I’m now finishing my master’s degree in
            which I’ve used the same support as in my undergraduate studies.


            The Carolina Centre provides various forms of support for students with specific learning 
            other things, it lends technical equipment (like voice recorders or tablets) and offers va
            that can be very helpful during your studies. The Centre was especially active and helpful

            learning—it regularly contacted students with offers to lend equipment, organize seminars 
            study topics but also on mental health), and much more.
            In conclusion, I want to say that having a disadvantage and asking for help is not a weakn

            even with all the support, your own effort will be the decisive factor. University studies
            not easy. There were many times when I was completely exhausted, went straight from final 
            next semester, didn’t have summer break for three years, and wondered whether I should jus

            didn’t.

            I am deeply grateful for all the help, and for both internal and external motivation, beca

            achieve what I’ve always dreamed of: teaching. Because it truly matters to me.