Autism Spectrum Disorder has shaped my goals for the future because it has made me determined that I will achieve my goals. Having Autism Spectrum Disorder has made school a unique experience. From an early age, I have had to learn to adapt to the world around me. I have had to learn how to communicate with others, and I have had to learn how to process the everyday sounds and happenings of school. Learning how to overcome my weaknesses in communication and sensory processing has made me stronger and more empathetic to those around me. Special Education has played an enormous role in helping me succeed at school. My first case managers provided me with some of the first tools to help guide me through school. They taught me social skills and helped learn what to expect in school. In elementary school, I had a difficult time understanding boundaries and social norms, but I had amazing case managers that helped me learn these concepts. I have always loved learning, but I have struggled with the social aspect of school. My middle school case manager helped me discover how to balance school and learn to develop friendship. She inspired me to become involved in extracurricular activities and advocate for my school needs. My experiences with autism have shaped the person I am today and who I want to be. Developing a sense of empathy for those around me is one of the reasons I want to become an anthropologist. To be an anthropologist, you have to be able to understand the experiences of others and observe their culture. Anthropologists have to remember that humans are at the center of all of their research. The social learning skills that I have learned throughout my experiences coping with Autism Spectrum Disorder have helped me to understand the importance of acknowledging the humanity within all of us. Autism Spectrum Disorder has impacted my goals by creating a deep sense of empathy and understanding for those that have been overlooked or misunderstood. I have always dealt with people misunderstanding or overlooking me, so I find it extremely important that I embrace the study of all of humanity. I believe that it is important that we understand the differences that exist in the world and understand those that have been forgotten. While many people see Autism Spectrum Disorder as an obstacle to overcome, I see it as a slight bump in a beautiful journey. While it has given me very rigid routines, worries, and concerns, it has also opened the door to amazing discoveries, interests, and people. I have learned about Dr. Brady Barr and his wonderful passion for crocodiles and reptiles. I have learned about World War II and its lasting impacts on the world. I have learned about John Deere and the history of tractors and farming. I have learned about history, culture, and philosophy and its everlasting impact on humanity. Autism Spectrum Disorder has given me the gift of intellectual insight. I structure my routines and excel at school so I can pursue my love for knowledge. I excel at tasks that require focus, intense interest, and attention to detail. I have learned to advocate for myself and push for what I need. Instead of conforming to the world around me, I advocate for what I need and make the world conform to my needs and expectations. I set realistic goals based on my interests, needs, and abilities. Autism Spectrum Disorder has given me an understanding of the world around me. It has helped me to understand how to communicate with others. It has taught me the importance of accepting those with differences. Autism Spectrum Disorder has helped to fuel my advocacy for the rights of all, and it has influenced me to pursue a future career where humanity is at the center of everything I do. I want to make sure that everyone is celebrated not just for their unique identity, but also for their important role in this thing we call humankind. I would not be where I am today without Special Education. It has provided me with teachers that have guided me and inspired me. They have given me the tools to understand who I am, to advocate for what I need, and to learn how to communicate with those around me. My Special Education teachers have helped me become the person I am today.