Thriving with Aspergers by Lilian

Thriving with Aspergers by Lilian - April 2023 Scholarship Essay

If I had all the money and time in the world, I would spend it on helping females with Autism. I have Asperger Syndrome, meaning that I'm high functioning, but I still struggle with certain things socially. And because I'm a girl, I wasn't diagnosed until I was 17. I got amazing grades in school when I was young, but I still needed help. My mom had me tested at the Elementary, Intermediate, and High School level. My schools never supported me and simply said, "She has good grades, she's fine!". I resented school systems for this reason. I almost didn't want to go to college because I feared it would be the same. I'm glad I found Wright State University and gave it a chance.

I've dealt with the challenges of autism generally by talking to others with it, and by
learning coping mechanisms. I had to learn that stimming in public can't be avoided, as if I don't
stim it could potentially harm me. I also had to realize and recognize that some things I do are
because of my autism. This helped me to recognise what was upsetting me and stop meltdowns
before they happen. And if a meltdown does occur, I need to leave the area, situation, or
whatever and go to a safe place such as a dark quiet room.

I plan to study costume design so that I can explore more fields of the fashion industry. I
have found so far that theatre is very rewarding for me, and I love sharing my work with those
close to me. I originally was aiming to be a make-up artist, but I think costume design might be
an amazing option as well! In this course I get to learn many different things, like painting and
touching up shoes, sewing, repairing and making clothing, wig styling and fitting, stage makeup, and so much more. This program will definitely give me many skills that I can use in my future, whether I choose theatre or just fashion design!

Most females with autism don't get the support that I've received at Wright State. If I get this scholarship, I could continue my education and advocate for others like me. It's a shame that more autistic girls don't make it to college because they're so misunderstood.