Episode 1: Autism

I have Autism which I found out at the age of 11. At that age, I didn't know exactly what Autism was and how it affected me. But throughout the years, I have learned more about it, and did time researching the matter.

I realized I showed some symptoms of Autism: eye contact, social interaction, speech, etc. Even though high school wasn't full of the best memories, one thing I can admit is that it helped me.

I was a pretty quiet individual in high school. I didn't talk to many people; however, I would only talk to someone if I was comfortable enough to do so. I was anti-social, but in my last 2 years of high school I started to open up more to people. I didn't like telling people I had Autism, because I thought people might treat me differently compared to someone who didn’t have what I have. I wanted to be treated just like everybody else, and still do to this day.

Throughout the years after high school, as well as during college, I have been learning more about myself and also improving on the things I've struggled with. I'm more aware of people's feelings, comfortable with making eye contact, more open to social interactions, and my speech has improved. However, I will admit that I still have problems with pronouncing certain words.

There was a club that involved Autism & Asperger individuals but it was disbanded after the president & co-president transferred to a university. My plan for my first year of college was to try reestablish the club and build it back up, but the corona-virus pandemic happened. This sidelined a lot of things, and unfortunately, I can't do anything until this is over.

Hopefully, this all ends soon, because afterwards, my plans will continue on as I left off. The purpose of this club is to help and meet people like myself, and have them feel like they can open up and feel comfortable on campus.