‘Some just think you’re dumb or lazy’ – How these dyslexic twins braved all odds to get $2.5m in college scholarships

It was all joy when Brin and Nial Wilson, who graduated from Captain Shreve High School in Shreveport, Louisiana, earned more than $2.5 million in college scholarships collectively. The two brothers, with dyslexia, said in May 2019 they had been accepted into over a dozen schools, including the prestigious Morehouse College, Louisiana Tech University, St. John’s University and others.

Despite excelling academically, Brin and Nial are decorated student-athletes and both received athletic scholarships from Knox College, Judson University, Culver-Stockton College, Sterling College, and McPherson College.

The two, who earned $1,393,012 and $1,335,788, respectively, later said they had chosen to attend Louisiana Tech University. With what many call a learning disability, their path to success was not easy.

The brothers spoke with Face2Face Africa about their journey.

1. When were you diagnosed with dyslexia?

Nial: elementary (3rd grade)
Brin: middle school (6th grade)

2. How did you get through school? Did you struggle with your studies?

Nial: I got through with prayer and faith. Yes I struggled
Brin: I am grateful I saw Nial process first and how to handle it. I also struggled at first also but prayer change things

3. Where did you find the strength to get to where you are now?

Nial:God and prayer. Our parents also stated to trust in God. To always do our best.
Brin: I am grateful to have seen the things Nial had to do. I truly blessed to have them to encourage me and believe in me.

4. How does it feel to have this academic scholarship? What does the scholarship cover?

Nial: It’s great to have any help to pay for school. Every little bit helps. The scholarship covers tuition.
Brin: It’s a blessing cause some of my friends struggle to cover some of the cost. I’m thankful we were able to achieve to cover things. The scholarships cover tuition.

5. What is that change for you to know you do not have to worry about the financial aspects of college?

Both: It’s great but we still cover our room and board. To cover the major part which is tuition is a blessing. We still worry cause we have to have a 2.0 gpa to maintain the scholarships requirement.

6. I am sure you have received a lot of calls from people congratulating you on your achievement. Can you tell us what it is like for you to have people tell you how inspirational you are?

Nial: It’s nice to be recognized for hard work and the journey we had to go through but it’s even better to say you can do it cause I did is the best feeling.
Brin: I am grateful to God for blessing me to help others and encourage them. We enjoy helping cause we had each other. Some don’t have anyone and it’s truly a lonely process cause some just think you’re dumb or lazy. No we just process different but we’re not dumb. Our parents tell us “To whom much is given, much is required “ So it’s great feeling to help others achieve and believe in themselves.

7. What is your advice for parents whose children have dyslexia?

Nial: Make the environment as normal as possible. Continue to encourage them and make them feel great. Always pray cause our parents said if you can’t talk to anyone, even us. You can always talk with God about anything.
Brin: just keep encouraging them. Our folks said stay on top of things like we did in football. If we can learn the playa, then we can learn our lessons.

8. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Nial: Trust in God and always talk with him. Thanks for the opportunity to share & help.
Brin: Our family motto is Mark 11:24, Pray, Believe, Receive. We’re hear to help cause it’s a journey and you don’t have to go alone.
Always talk to God & pray.