This is the story of how I went from condemned and directionless in my early life to accomplished and acclaimed. As a young child, I was diagnosed with PDD/NOS at the age of 3 and Asperger's at age 9. Though I had excellent early intervention, I also struggled with countless issues, such as bullying, academics, behavior, and relationships. This continued from preschool to 10th grade. I had moved 6 times in my life, so I not only had to make transitions, but do so more frequently than most people.
However, when I began my junior year of high school, I discovered my own ambitions and talents. From that point on, I achieved grades that put me in the top 8 of my class. I had earned rare honors, such as being the first Delaware high school student to receive a certificate of merit and national-level recognition from Teen Voices of Democracy Magazine. I achieved popularity and became prom king.
When I was in college, I suffered from depression, anxiety, and thoughts of suicide, but I refused to give up on myself. I earned awards in leadership, speaking, and fundraising. I demonstrated versatile skills in communication and my personal interests in advocacy, education, science, business, technology, and charity. contrary to the stereotypes against me, because I had purposes, passions, and goals for everything.
Aspies typically have focus within one particular arena, but I defied the odds with my personal strength and open-mindedness in order to succeed in a society that had little faith in me at all. At the moment, I am a 22-year-old graduate from the University of Delaware who holds a Bachelor of Arts in biological sciences. I am working in that field as a production technician after months of unemployment and networking.
For those who are reading this, I know for a fact that you can achieve if you advocate for yourself, move forward, and explore the world. Even if the world seems to be against you, you can still thrive and enjoy life. Have faith and enjoy your extraordinary journey!
Newark, DE
