Dyslexic Teen Isn't Letting Summer Slow Him Down

Fort Worth, TX, March 25, 2016 (Newswire.com) - ​Being dyslexic can impact a kid's self confidence. Failing to meet expectations in a traditional classroom can make a student question whether they can compete with their peers or achieve their dreams. The learning disability also can lead to unnecessary anxiety in learning environments.  Preston Gould isn't letting any of that stop him this summer.

The ambitious Texas teenager, who has dyslexia, isn't going to allow the learning disability or lack of funds, get in the way of his long-term goals. After being admitted to Harvard University's Secondary School Program, Preston is getting creative in an attempt to pay for his tuition costs. A sophomore at Byron Nelson High School, Preston is hoping his page on generosity.com will bring in the donations he'll need to accelerate his learning in the area of finance and economics this summer--eventually helping him launch a luxury hotel chain after college.

"There's nothing I wanted more than to learn more about how to be successful in business. I've been researching opportunities, but I wasn't sure if I was good enough to get a chance like this," Preston Gould said.

Preston Gould, Hopeful Harvard Student

"There's nothing I want more than to learn about how to be successful in business. I've been researching opportunities, but I wasn't sure if I was good enough to get a chance like this," Preston Gould said.

Throughout his educational journey, Preston was a frustrated student. He struggled to prove his intelligence in the classroom. Some teachers thought he wasn't working hard enough or that he wasn't focused. His grades had landed him in lower-expectation classes and he was bored.  Despite studying, he wouldn't see what everyone could see. Finally, a personal breakthough came from watching YouTube and learning more about dyslexia.

"After watching some videos, I started to understand what was happening in my brain and the light bulb just clicked about what would work for me.  I started working on those strategies and everything finally came together for me," he said.

After identifying the problem, getting the proper assistance from educational professionals, and working on a strategy to improve his learning skills, he finally unlocked his potential. The once struggling C-student now has a 4.0 GPA, does well in his AP classes, and is passionate about finance and economics. In an effort to accelerate his learning, he applied and was accepted to Harvard's Secondary Summer Program. It's an opportunity for high school students to earn college credit courses at Harvard University during a 7 week program.

This admission has had a clear impact on his confidence. "I just can't tell you how excited I am about this chance to really show the world that dyslexia isn't something that means you can't succeed.  It's just something you have to learn more about so you can figure out how to see your dreams come true," he said.

However, the program isn't cheap and Preston isn't rich. The program is expected to cost more than $10,000.  He's hoping generous donors can help offset the cost for the educational opportunity.

You can donate to Preston by searching "Dyslexic Teen" on Generosity.com's website by Indiegogo.

"Preston isn't someone who misses opportunities.  If he can make this happen, it will be a moment that matters in his journey," said his mom.