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I've always been the quiet kid who excelled in primary school and the first few years of secondary education. So imagine my mum's surprise when I told her I might have ADHD. "But you did so well in school!" she exclaimed, echoing the common stereotype of ADHD as a condition only seen in hyperactive, disruptive children. It was a turning point for me—a moment that sparked a deeper exploration of my identity.

Challenging stereotypes and facing my struggles 

Growing up, I internalised the idea that ADHD was something to be conquered, a flaw to be fixed. My struggles weren't with endless fidgeting or classroom disruptions; they manifested in quieter ways—like daydreaming, creating elaborate stories in my head, or visualising letters dancing on the page. These were my methods of seeking the dopamine my brain craved, a reality that went against the typical image of ADHD.

There were times in high school when comparing myself to my classmates led to feelings of inadequacy. If I didn’t ace a test or achieve as quickly as others, I would spiral into self-doubt, convinced I lacked the capacity to succeed in life. It took a lot of research and self-reflection to reframe my perspective and see ADHD not as a limitation, but as a unique gift. 

Discovering my unique strength 

A breakthrough moment came when I stumbled upon the book ADHD: A Hunter in a Farmer's World. The book presented a revolutionary view on the differences between ADHD and non-ADHD brains. It helped me realise that my mind, though different, was not broken. I learned to appreciate my daydreaming and creative spark as essential parts of who I am. Slowly, I began to see that my ADHD was not something to hide or defeat—it was a strength that I needed to embrace and celebrate.

Strategies that work for me

University presented new challenges that forced me to rethink my approach to learning. I've discovered that traditional study methods, like simply reading textbooks, never seemed to stick with me. Instead, I rely on techniques like active recall—retrieving information from memory through practice problems, flashcards, and self-quizzing. This method not only reinforced my understanding of the subject matter but also helped me retain complex concepts more effectively. As a computer science student, I use active recall regularly during my projects, and I’ve found that it benefits everyone, not just those with ADHD.

Another strategy that has significantly improved my focus is creating a dedicated study space. Whether it’s lighting a favourite scented candle, using a yellow desk lamp, or even relocating to a quiet café, changing my environment helps reset my concentration and makes studying more enjoyable. These small adjustments have made a big difference in managing distractions and staying on task.

My advice for neurodivergent students 

If there's one thing I’ve learned along this journey, it's to never give up. Embrace your unique strengths and recognise that your differences can be powerful assets. It’s important to remember that setbacks in one area do not define your potential for success overall. Find study strategies that resonate with you, and don't be afraid to explore unconventional methods.

Your journey is uniquely yours, and every challenge overcome is a step toward a brighter future. Your brain is uniquely wired, and that uniqueness is something to be proud of. Celebrate your neurodivergence, learn to work with it, and know that your path to success is just as valid as anyone else’s.

Chayanada studies BSc Computer Science in Thailand.