Wednesday, January 11, 2023

Autism And Going To A 4 Year College

My son Tommy has been going to a nearby community college to get his associates degree in Video Cinematography. If all goes well, he'll graduate in May. 



But what comes next? 

Well, he decided to go to a 4 year college. Only to him it would be more like 2 years since he'll have his associates. The plan is for him to live on campus to see how it goes being independent. To some people this isn't a big deal. But Tommy has autism, and I worry. 

He applied to 3 4 year colleges: Texas State University, UTSA, and The University of Texas at Austin. All of the colleges are nearby. The furthest away is Austin. With traffic, it could be about 2 hours. 

I kept asking if he heard anything. Nope. 

And then...

He rushed downstairs and said he was accepted to the Texas State University, which is located in San Marcos. 




I was proud. I know he's capable of anything, but I also know the world can be cruel. 

He's still waiting to hear from the other 2 colleges. The one in Austin is tougher to get into so he's not sure if he'll be accepted. If not, he's leaning on Texas State University. 



It's going to be tough when he moves out. I know I'll worry. We also have to see if it's possible for him to have a single dorm since he does have autism. I cannot picture him with a roommate. I do not think it would go well as he tends to have meltdowns if it's too loud. If he has his own space I think it would go smoother.

I know he can be independent. He wants to be independent. He doesn't drive, so he'd be relying on the bus system if he needs to get somewhere. We'd still pick him up and take him home during school breaks. 

I'm excited for him. But nervous at the same time. I'm going to miss him. I'm used to having him around. 




But I also know I need to let go a bit no matter how much it hurts. 

18 comments:

  1. I am glad Tommy is going to university! He is such an incredible person and deserves the best. Honestly I hope eveything goes well because he has proven that he is capable of doing great stuff.

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  2. That's so great to hear. I'm sure he'll do amazing things in life. College is always a wonderful step.

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  3. It will be hard to let him go. Maybe there is a support system on the campus.

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  4. It's important he learns to manage on his own as well since one day you won't be able to there for him. I'm sure he'll do fine.

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  5. I know he’ll do great! That is amazing to hear! This will help him to explore more by himself

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  6. It's not easy to let our kids go but eventually we will have to and accept that they are growing and will be adults soon and on their own. Congratulations on passing!

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  7. You've done such a wonderful job raising your children and I'm so proud of all of you!

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  8. Oh mama! You have done an amazing job! I can only imagine how bittersweet it all is. Congratulations to him and you.

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  9. Congratulations to Tommy! I know he has got to be excited. I understand the bitter sweet feel to it though too.

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  10. I am so happy for him!! Congrats. He will make a wonderful student.

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  11. That's wonderful that your son got accepted into the program he applied for. I can understand your worrying about how living on campus will be for him, but I guess he has to take this next step.

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  12. I can't immagine how tough is for you, but I think you did a brilliant job as his mother and you'll see the results. Good luck for everything!

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  13. Wonderful news! Sending him all the best of luck!

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  14. This is such a mixed emotion situation for you, I know it because I also experience this! But as parents give what's best for our kids! We just need to support them all the way as long as we live!

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  15. What a wonderful opportunity to further his education! The future is very bright for this young man.

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  16. What and exciting time for him, I'm sure it's overwhelming a little for you both but he's gonna be amazing!!!

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  17. Way to go Tommy!!! This is such awesome news for the whole family. The fact that he WANTS to go means he will do so well! And yes, I'm betting he'll have no problem getting a single room by going through the Office of Disability or Accommodations Office (whatever his chosen school calls it)!

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  18. i am autistic and i did political science and human rights in undergrad did my masters in international human rights law i work for the international criminal court i am a apublished writer, state winner of new jersey in geogrpahy bee i can speak arabic chinese english french russian spanish portuguese afrikaans xhosa and zulu Not so tragic and miserable am i?

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