Hello, my name is James Deibler. I am an adult with high-functioning autism who is currently attending Arizona State University.
I believe that college education must be affordable for all Americans.
My dream has always been to graduate from a university. For years, I have been told that I would never graduate from high school, much less be a college student. At first, I believed what everyone had told me: “an adult with autism would never be successful, that they are only Developmentally Challenged.” However, with the dedication of my friends and family, I knew that I would be able to prove everyone wrong. I knew that I would rise above the prejudice that I had once faced, and make it in society.
Last year, I graduated from Glendale Community College with an Associate Degree in General Studies and a Photography Certificate.
However, my dream is slowly disappearing before my eyes.
As you all know, the expense of a university is atrocious. I have taken out student loans and have had the assistance of Financial Aid. Sadly, by this time next year, I will surpass the 600% of Pell Grant Eligibility. Here’s where I really need your help.
The chances of me obtaining a job are slim, as it is hard for me to find an employer who is willing to work with my disability. So, by taking out more loans, I am placing myself deeper and deeper into debt. Without the assurance of a job, I am scared. I want this degree more than life itself. Please help me fund my dream. Please help me fund my future.
Once obtained, I want to use my Bachelor's degree to work with local government in the disability sector. I would help to improve people with disabilities in all communities. I know Bachelor's Degrees can get jobs easier than high school diplomas and Associate's Degrees.
Thank you all for your time in reading my story.
Sincerely,
James Deibler
I believe that college education must be affordable for all Americans.
My dream has always been to graduate from a university. For years, I have been told that I would never graduate from high school, much less be a college student. At first, I believed what everyone had told me: “an adult with autism would never be successful, that they are only Developmentally Challenged.” However, with the dedication of my friends and family, I knew that I would be able to prove everyone wrong. I knew that I would rise above the prejudice that I had once faced, and make it in society.
Last year, I graduated from Glendale Community College with an Associate Degree in General Studies and a Photography Certificate.
However, my dream is slowly disappearing before my eyes.
As you all know, the expense of a university is atrocious. I have taken out student loans and have had the assistance of Financial Aid. Sadly, by this time next year, I will surpass the 600% of Pell Grant Eligibility. Here’s where I really need your help.
The chances of me obtaining a job are slim, as it is hard for me to find an employer who is willing to work with my disability. So, by taking out more loans, I am placing myself deeper and deeper into debt. Without the assurance of a job, I am scared. I want this degree more than life itself. Please help me fund my dream. Please help me fund my future.
Once obtained, I want to use my Bachelor's degree to work with local government in the disability sector. I would help to improve people with disabilities in all communities. I know Bachelor's Degrees can get jobs easier than high school diplomas and Associate's Degrees.
Thank you all for your time in reading my story.
Sincerely,
James Deibler