Reflections on Completing my Master’s Degree

Going back to my high school years, I never thought that college would be in the cards for me due to my difficulty with comprehension and grasping deeper meanings. Upon completing grad school, the greatest thing that I have taken away is very simple: there is no shame in asking for accommodations. When it comes down to it, not one individual accomplishes tasks similarly to anyone else (whether you have autism or not). As the years of graduate studies passed and I became mentally stronger and confident in handling my course load, it got to the point where I had no accommodations whatsoever in my final semester. I solidified what works best for me and was able to forge my own path of success with the skills and mechanisms I developed along the way. Having obtained my Master’s in Pastoral Theology enhances a sense of jubilation, confidence, and determination such that if I am called to pursue studies in the priesthood, I know that I am capable of doing the work and MORE than capable of meeting the standards! I am just realizing how far I have truly come in life and I can now confidently say that I have autismbut (as some people unfortunately assume) I am not “stupid.” 

4 comments on “Reflections on Completing my Master’s Degree

  1. Congratulations, David. You say it so well. How I wish the whole world had your view of “differences.” God bless you and your family !

  2. And as one of your grad school professors, I can say honestly that I never would have known of your struggles. Your work, and your work ethic, are impeccable. I can’t even begin to imagine how proud your mother is! 🙂

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