In our last issue of Young Exceptional Perspectives, I began our series on how to practice self-care as a self-advocate by reminding readers to celebrate all wins in life, no matter how big or small. I mentioned in that article that this can be easy to do when our lives are going great but what about when life is difficult? How can we celebrate when it seems obstacles are constantly in our way? In this article, I want to give you a few tips on how to get through setbacks as a self-advocate and still have a heart of self-care and celebration.

First and foremost, remember that while you can’t control every action, we can do our best to control the reaction. It is easy to get angry or feel defeated when things don't go our way. It is also easy to feel bad about feeling this way, but know that it is okay to be upset when things don't go your way. However, when you are ready to change your attitude about the setback, chances are you will find ways to overcome the setback.

Secondly, remember that you never have to advocate alone! If a situation becomes too stressful, do not hesitate to step back and have others step in on your behalf. Whether it is an organization like ECAC, a caregiver or a teacher, there is always someone to help you when you are struggling to help yourself. You still control the choices you make but others can assist you in making proper choices when navigating a setback.

Lastly, be flexible if you can. It is easy to only want exactly what we advocate for and sometimes doing all we can to get that result is necessary. However, if other helpful options are given, be open to trying new ways of having your needs met. It may just work and save you some stress from navigating difficult people or situations.

In summary, let the setbacks as a self-advocate show you the tools that can be building blocks for your success and turn your losses into lessons.

From High School to College

by Aidan L., YAT Member

I just graduated high school. I was so thrilled that I graduated and my parents were so proud of me. Then I thought about what my next goal is going to be for the future. I’d like to get a driver’s license and become an animator. So I decided to go to Rowan Cabarrus Community College. At first, I registered for four classes but I felt anxious and overwhelmed because I knew things were going to be so difficult for me. I decided to drop two classes. My two classes that I’m taking now are math and a writing class. I feel stressed out because I have trouble understanding math word problems because I struggle with reading comprehension. The school has a math tutoring room so I decided to go and get some extra support. I think it’s been helpful. I’m doing much better now and my first unit test is coming up. My writing class is difficult because writing has always been challenging for me. I have to take this writing class because it’s mandatory. 

What I miss about high school is going to leadership class and hanging out with my friends. This class helped me to interact better and I spent some time helping to decorate for school events. Now that I’m in college, I miss going to high school and I don’t have anyone to interact with. This makes me feel depressed and lonely. I wish that I can make new friends. Making new friends is hard for me because if I start to interact with someone, people are going to think I’m weird because I’m hard of hearing and I have autism. They might think I’m weird because I don’t talk like other people. Sometimes my words get mixed up when I’m communicating. 

I’m not sure if I will be able to finish college. Things may be hard but I will try my best and stay focused. If I’m not able to finish college then my plan B is to get a job. 

Using Your Voice

Zay H.B., JYAT Member

Have you ever thought it's hard to use your voice? We've all been there. It's been hard for me to use my voice too at times, but working with ECAC and their brilliant team of people has helped me find a way to use my voice. I just started a new school, but I want to take a trip back to the past and share what I learned from using my voice. We all have a voice. I know it might be scary to try to stand up for yourself but you don't know what will happen when you use your voice. Wonderful things might happen. So I'm encouraging everyone to stand up for themselves, stand up for others and use your voice. Using your voice isn't a bad thing. Using your voice is how you can help yourself get what you need. It also helps you become strong. It helps you believe in yourself. It also helps you empower others and become dependable. Using your voice helps you believe in yourself and this is one of the number one things. So everyone out there believe in yourself, this world needs you. Don't let the fact that you have a disability stop you from doing incredible things no matter what your disability is. All you have to do is believe in yourself as it is one of the most incredible things you can do. Also love yourself. Belief and love are the two keys in life. If you do these two things you'll succeed anywhere!

My Life After Graduation

Jonathan R., YAT Member

I graduated on June 2nd as the class salutatorian. What I'm doing now is going to Nash Community College. I have been a student there for a year now, and I’m currently majoring in biology. Before my class started, I began studying throughout the summer. I also took history, but I dropped out on my fourth week so I could prioritize my biology studies. After I earn my Associates of Science degree, I plan on enrolling in a university to continue studying history. I still have my learner’s permit, but I’m getting my driver’s license soon.

Advocating for Myself at School

Jaxson E., JYAT Member

Recently I participated in my first 504 meeting. I’ve been working with the Junior Youth Advocacy Team with ECAC. So when it was time for my annual 504 meeting I wanted to participate to learn about self-advocacy and how to advocate for myself in the future. 

A 504 is a plan that helps students with disabilities who may need accommodations at school. I have autism and anxiety, so having accommodations like breaks helps me to stay calm when I am anxious. I also have the ability to take tests in a small group which helps me focus and not become overwhelmed. Having flexible seating is also important because my body needs to move to stay regulated.  

To prepare for the meeting, I reviewed my current 504 plan with my mom and we talked about how I use each accommodation and why they are helpful to me. During the meeting the school counselor asked me about each accommodation and how I used them. We also discussed whether or not I needed any new ones. She reminded me that she is there to help me whenever I need help.

I felt proud when it was over because it was something that I did by myself, and I learned how to advocate for myself in a new way.  

Executive Functioning Tip

Lucas J., YAT Member

I’m Lucas Jones, and I have autism and ADHD. As someone with these disabilities, I struggle with executive functioning. The most common solution people use for organization is a calendar. However, I find this does not work well for me.

I have used a to-do list for the last few semesters of school. I use google drive, creating a google document (text file). I write down assignments and when they are due, as well as other tasks outside of school. This is much more compact than a calendar, and better represents the nature of deadlines. It also make it easy to keep track of what you’ve done and what you haven’t. I recommend this method for anyone similar to me or who doesn’t enjoy using a calendar.

This has made my classes much more enjoyable and stress free. I am a game development student, and I have 3D animation, 3D Modeling, and Unreal Engine Programming classes.

Whatever form of organization you use, it’s important to make a habit of using and checking it. Write down tasks you need to do, and refer back to it to decide how best to spend your time. It only gives back if you’re willing to put effort in.

The Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center (ECAC) is proud to offer the Matthew C. Graziadei Achievement Scholarship Award to a North Carolina high school senior with a disability. This award includes a $1,500 scholarship, to be used for any post-high school learning experience/training or for equipment/technology needed for employment.

Applications will only be accepted through Monday, February 5, 2024.  The award will be presented to the winning student during their high school awards ceremony. Based on applications received, additional students may be selected as Runner Up.