"She reminded me that independence doesn’t mean perfection; it means progress. She and Autism Speaks have helped our family beyond words."

Meet Andrew "DJ" F., 19

At just 19 years old, Andrew “DJ” F. (short for Drew Jr.) has already overcome barriers that could have held him back. Diagnosed with autism as a child, DJ faced challenges in school, social settings, and navigating life after the loss of his father. But his story doesn’t end there.

How did DJ go from feeling overlooked by mainstream colleges to thriving at an institution tailored to his needs? Along the way, DJ and his family discovered tools and resources that not only opened new doors for him but could also help others on similar journeys.

For DJ, finding the right college wasn’t just about earning a degree—it was about finding a place where he could truly thrive.

DJ and his mom holding a sign that says 'Beacon Bound'

After facing rejection and frustration with schools unable to provide the support he needed, DJ and his mother, Candice, discovered Beacon College, the first accredited institution in the U.S. designed specifically for students with learning disabilities and ADHD. But getting there was no easy feat. It took years of preparation and creative problem-solving to turn this dream into a reality.

Learn more about how DJ, with support from his mother and Autism Speaks, turned his dreams into reality.

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