Sabine Lang has witnessed many people overcome dyslexia.
“Dyslexia is probably one of the most misunderstood conditions in our society,” Lang said. “It is not a disability, but rather a learning difference. Many successful people are dyslexic, thus it is certainly not an academic disadvantage.
That is why Lang established the Sabine Lang Honors Success Scholarship: to assist extremely intelligent students who work harder since society is not designed to accommodate certain learning difficulties. Lang points out that left-handed persons have limited options – just try finding left-handed scissors. Lang’s scholarship recognizes the adaptability, ingenuity, and resilience of kids with learning challenges.
“I want to support students who have overcome challenges that society has imposed on them,” she said. She also hopes that her scholarship would encourage students to accept their differences rather than hide or consider their situation as inferior.
Abby Flynn ’27, the inaugural winner of the scholarship, believes that it demonstrates how hurdles to learning can make students stronger and smarter.
“I learned quickly that I would much rather be the hardest working student in the classroom,” says Flynn, a biology major at the Honors College who aspires to work in medicine. “Eventually when we aren’t being graded but are actually working in our fields, the ones who learned to persevere and adapt will be the strongest performers.”
Flynn chose the College of Charleston for its strong feeling of community.
“The size of my classes allows for more individual attention, which is something that is super important to me,” she said. “Having contacts with my professors and peers will be extremely beneficial when pursuing such a difficult major. The College of Charleston also provided a variety of extracurricular activities, including philanthropy, sustainability, and even a Taylor Swift group.
“I really am honored to be receiving the Sabine Lang Honors Success Scholarship,” said Flynn. “It means a lot to be recognized for the struggles I’ve conquered. I intend to continue applying myself and find ways to give back to my new school community.”
