I grew up without the guidance of an educational audiologist or a Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TDHH). In fact, I didn’t even experience the difference a remote microphone could make until I reached university. Because of that, I consider myself a “late bloomer” when it comes to self-advocacy.

What I’ve realized over time is that asking for accommodations is about more than just accessibility; it is essentially asking the people around you to change their behaviour. There’s some skill involved. Advance planning also helps, but it isn’t always possible.

Developing self-confidence and self-determination is a lifelong process, and I am very much still a student in this regard. In this video, I share three specific experiences that shaped my journey and helped me grow into the advocate I am today.

Related video: Feelings of inadequacy with hearing loss