How Capstone Transformed My Life

By: Sarah, Capstone Participant

Hi, my name is Sarah, and I’m in my second year at Franklin Capstone. I first came to Capstone to fill in the gaps in my “adulting”blank skills that had become apparent while I was in college. The coursework I’ve completed so far has served exactly that purpose. I’ve learned how to handle a job interview, take good care of my health, and build and maintain friendships, among many other things. When people ask me what I’m in school for, my go-to response is “everything about being an adult that you wish they taught you in school but they never did”, and I’ve yet to meet someone who doesn’t wish they had access to a program like this one.

Being at Capstone has also been great for my social and mental health. I’ve learned a lot about myself, what being autistic means for me, and how to account for both my strengths and my challenges. I’ve also valued being in a space filled with autistic and otherwise neurodivergent people. When I’m at school, I don’t feel like the odd one out like I do in most contexts. Instead, I’m surrounded by people who intuitively understand how my mind works and how I communicate, and I get to offer the same understanding to them. I don’t have to diligently monitor what I say and do to make sure I come across in a favorable way like I do in most settings—I can be my real, unfiltered self, and nobody thinks less of me for it. As a result, I genuinely enjoy being at Capstone, and a number of the people I’ve met here are among my closest friends.

In short, I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to attend Capstone and for everyone who makes it possible. Earlier this year, I was hired as an associate Behavior Therapist at Franklin Academy, and have been thankful to have the opportunity to pursue my passion for helping neurodivergent people feel understood, supported, and empowered. Thanks to my time at Franklin Center, my life has been greatly enriched, and I feel much more equipped for whatever my future holds.

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