Ever since I can remember, I have struggled with stuttering. I feel like I managed okay through grade school because my teachers and friends knew me. Now, I am a freshman at a large university, and I’m worried my stutter will hold me back both socially and academically. I am very anxious about having to speak in class or participate in group projects. How do I build confidence and handle my stuttering at such a big school?
— Sincerely,
Anonymous
Blake Johnson
Blake’s Take
Dear Anonymous,
Thank you for writing and trusting me to help you with your struggle. I must admit I have no knowledge or experience in helping someone who stutters. Besides a few early schoolmates, I can only recall being around one other person who stuttered. Significantly, this person was very admirable and successful. In fact, after our first few encounters, I truly no longer noticed his stutter. His personality and distinguished manner completely overshadowed any difficulty he might have had speaking.
With so little experience, it’s hard for me to offer more encouragement for your struggle specifically. However, as someone who attended college with a disability, I can share some general experience and direction for finding resources and solutions.
To start with, I would recommend maximizing some skills you already possess. I would imagine that starting out in school, moving up a grade each year, meeting new people, and getting through awkward moments over the years have helped you build some confidence. Spend some time reflecting on similar past experiences and how you were able to cope in those situations. Try to remember how you dealt with each transition, and list both your successful and unsuccessful strategies. Take those successful tactics and begin customizing a plan for future events.
Next, I would suggest ongoing research. According to The Stuttering Foundation, there are 80 million people in the world who stutter. That means there are 80 million stories out there to be shared, and I’m sure there is something to be learned from each one. The foundation also provides free online resources, support, and services to people who stutter and their families. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) website says stuttering can be treated through therapy, drug therapy, electronic devices, and self-help groups. If you haven’t done so already, check into the different treatment options that may be available near you.
At the very least, try to find a local or online support group. I have found that meeting people with similar challenges is one of the greatest assets in dealing with difficult circumstances—and it’s free.
Also, check for resources within your university. More than likely, there are support groups and tutors already equipped to help you with your situation. Don’t hesitate to ask and get involved. When I went back to school, I was blown away by the willingness to accommodate my needs. Professors, staff, and students were overwhelmingly supportive and happy to make my experience as close to normal as possible. Their acceptance and eagerness to help bridged the gap in confidence I needed to succeed. I honestly feel like you will have the same experience if you utilize the support available to you.
To summarize, I would put together a plan combining your current coping skills with what you learn from ongoing research and the support system within your university. From what I have read, stuttering can improve with concentration and practice. Keep working at it and take every opportunity you can to speak. Last—and most importantly—like the gentleman I mentioned earlier, let your presence outshine your impediment. If you are a good person with a great personality, no one will notice if you stutter.
Again, I’m sorry I don’t have more experience with stuttering specifically, but I hope this helps and that you find the confidence you need to speak out in college and beyond.
God bless,
