When I was three years old, I was diagnosed under Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). That put me on the autism spectrum.

 

         Growing up, I struggled with social interactions and speech; rarely making any friends and keeping to myself. I required an IEP (Individual Education Program) to help me out in school, where I occasionally had to be pulled from classes so I could take my tests.

 

         However, as I grew up, I became less dependent on the program as I continued to expand my education to the highest level and have joined several clubs to improve on my social interactions.

 

          If I had the opportunity to meet my younger self, I don’t think they would even recognize me.