Michaela Hearst, MSW, is a writer and advocate. She earned her master’s degree from Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. Before that, she completed a master’s certificate program in dyslexia studies and language-based learning disabilities through Southern New Hampshire University. Hearst graduated from Manhattanville College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in creative writing. Her capstone paper focused on how to counteract stereotypes and stigma surrounding learning and thinking differences. She also has an associate’s degree in liberal studies from Landmark College, where she graduated summa cum laude. Hearst has served as a developmental intern for Understood’s founding partner, the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD). She is a member of NCLD’s Young Adult Leadership Council, as well as a Project Social Ambassador for The NVLD Project and a guest blogger for Friends of Quinn. She is passionate about the field of learning and thinking differences. As a newly minted social worker, she wants to help others who have learning disabilities to help themselves.