Michelle Steiner:
Through My Lens
From childhood struggles with dexterity to becoming an artist through photography, Michelle’s journey is a testament to how unexpected paths can lead to powerful self-discovery.
Bio
Michelle Steiner lives with an invisible disability. From the start many people have told her she could not go to college, get her bachelor’s degree, get published or have the job she wanted. She has been able to do all of that and more. Michelle graduated from Slippery Rock University with a bachelor’s degree in Community Programing. She has articles published on The Mighty, Non-Verbal Learning Project, Dyscalculia Blog, The Reluctant Spoonie, Kalopina Collective, Imagine the World as One Magazine, and Word Gathering. Her photographs were featured in Word Gathering Independent and Work Ready. She works as a paraeducator in a school with students with disabilities. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two cats.
Topics
- How a disability shaped Michelle’s artistic perspective
- The power of slowing down and noticing details in life
- Overcoming self-doubt and embracing hidden talents
- The role of mentors and encouragers in personal growth
- How limitations can lead to unexpected opportunities
- The emotional journey of feeling like an outsider
- Learning to see beauty in everyday life
- The therapeutic nature of art and creativity
- How photography became a form of self-expression
- Shifting perspectives—seeing struggles as blessings
Guiding Questions
- How did your early experiences with a learning disability shape your view of yourself?
- What was the moment that made you realize you had an artistic eye?
- How did being unable to drive impact your perspective on life?
- What role did mentors and supportive communities play in your journey?
- How has photography changed the way you process emotions?
- What advice would you give to someone struggling with self-doubt?
- Can you share a specific moment when you realized your perspective had shifted?
- How do you now view the challenges you once saw as setbacks?
- What lessons has your journey taught you about resilience?
- How can others learn to see the hidden beauty in their own lives?