Ever notice how the world loves to tell us what we can’t do? Especially when you’re an autistic teen, it feels like the moment people find out, they automatically assume you’re “incompetent” or that you’ll never achieve anything. It’s like they’ve already decided who we are before we even get the chance to prove them wrong. But here’s the truth: they’re wrong. We are not defined by their narrow expectations. We can do anything we set our minds to.
I’ve got an interview for a homeschool college program this. I’m not just excited, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. This opportunity is mine to grab, and it proves that we can carve our own path, even when everyone else tells us we can’t.
You think I’m “dumb,” huh? Sure, you can think that. But guess what? I’m two years ahead in math and already tackling things my older brothers can’t even do. I’m not just keeping up with the curriculum; I’m smashing it. I’m diving into advanced algebra, calculus, and statistics that kids a couple of years older than me struggle with. But that’s not all. I’m also learning British Sign Language (BSL)—and I’m doing great at it! Not only am I working on my own skills, but I’m also able to communicate in ways many others can’t, and that’s something I’m really proud of.
Before you try to label me as “incapable,” take a second to realize that just because I do things differently doesn’t mean I’m less. In fact, it makes me more. I’m 13 right now, and I’ll be 14 in May, but I’m already working on Year 11 material. Yep, I’m in Year 9, and I’m already doing the work of older students. So, if you think I’m not “smart enough” to succeed, let me tell you something: My autism doesn’t hold me back. It makes me who I am. And I’m proud of that.
I can’t count the number of times people have doubted me. The “You’re too awkward for that,” or “You’ll never be able to handle that situation” comments. And it stings, but you know what? It’s also fuel. Because every time someone says “you can’t,” I just think: Watch me.
Our sensory needs, social struggles, and routines don’t make us weaker; they make us stronger in ways others can’t even see. It might take us a little longer to adjust or figure things out, but once we do? We thrive.
And don’t even get me started on the idea that we can’t be independent. Please. We’ve been navigating a world that wasn’t built for us from the start. That alone shows we’ve got grit. We know how to face challenges head-on and keep going even when it feels like everything is working against us.
Our dreams are worth fighting for.
I’m walking into this interview because I believe in myself and my ability to succeed, no matter how many times people say “You’re too different.” Autism doesn’t hold me back—it’s part of who I am. And that’s what makes me unique, strong, and unstoppable.
I’m proud of who I am. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished. I want to help others, and I already have people who trust me enough to open up to me. It’s such a rewarding feeling to be able to be there for others and to support them in the ways I can. It makes me feel like I’m doing something that matters, and I wouldn’t change that for the world.
So to every autistic teen who’s ever been told they couldn’t do something: you are so much more capable than people give you credit for. Your dreams are valid, your goals are achievable, and you are worthy of every single opportunity that comes your way.
Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. You’re stronger than they think. You’re smarter than they know. And together, we’re going to show the world what we can truly do
Remember your worth,
Summer-Rose H xxx
Add comment
Comments