Spectrum Spotlight Profile Callout

Sample: I was diagnosed around six years old, when I was in kindergarten. I was having a problem socializing with other kids my age, was very picky with textures (clothes and food) and could not adapt to change very well. I was taken to see a professional and the result was a diagnosis of autism.

Sample: Autism has made interacting with society a challenge. It has led to me having difficulty finding friends that really understand me and my intentions. However, that also means that I am greatly appreciative for my friends who really seem to care about me and make an effort to understand me.

Sample: For one, I am very loyal. I always try to be there for my friends and family and am always willing to listen and help with any problems they may have. Also, I am very focus-oriented and that allows me to really dive deep into subjects that most others may not be interested in. Lastly, if I am shopping, I will feel clothing before even really looking at it. If it doesn’t pass the “feel test” then it doesn’t really matter what it looks like. My autism has allowed me to excel academically. My ability to focus for long periods of time has allowed me to study and be well-prepared for exams. I also have very good recall of information (dates, events, names, numbers, etc.). I am also somewhat of a perfectionist when it comes to writing. I can usually spot a typo or if something just seems off when I am writing thoughts or essays, while also being particular with my word choice.

Sample: Most of my struggles due to my autism involve socializing. I have difficulty making eye contact. When someone is talking to me, I usually am turned to the right and have my ear toward them. I also have difficulty finding something relevant to contribute to conversations, which is why I am not very good at small talk. Lastly, I am very routinized. So, when something pops up and I have to change my routine, it isn’t easy for me, even though I can deal with it a lot more efficiently than I used to.

Sample: My family is such a blessing from God. They know and understand my unconventional, often quirky, ways of doing things, and so they are always supportive and offer a different perspective to a situation that I don’t quite know how to handle. They are also my biggest advocates who will stand up and vouch for me when I need them to.

Sample: Yes, my life has been impacted by Coronavirus as all my therapies and doctors’ visits are on a standstill. Rather than complaining, I chose to do activities that I previously did not have the time to do before. For example, my family and I go on two walks around the neighborhood on a daily basis and I go on a run as much as possible. I am looking to finish my degree and pursue a career in the medical field. I also want to expand my autism and mental health advocacy efforts and reach more people.

Sample: I would tell them to embrace their own individuality. No two people (on the spectrum or neurotypical) are the same and having autism just adds to that individual’s unique qualities. Different is not always a bad thing, and the people we look up to (sports stars, celebrities, leaders, etc.) are where they are because they are different.

Sample: Ambitious. Considerate. Loyal. Meticulous. Passionate.

Sample: I would be proud and excited to be an ambassador. I think it is important to be a voice for our community, and to help raise awareness, understanding, and acceptance of people with autism.

Sample: Yes! I would be proud and excited to be an ambassador. I have participated in the walk for the last eight years, and I can’t wait for the walk to begin! I think it is important to be a voice for our community, and to help raise awareness, understanding, and acceptance of people with autism.

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