My journey in Sydney went beyond just sightseeing. My internship with Autism Spectrum Australia
(Aspect) was a transformative chapter in my life. Working with Aspect allowed me to deepen my
understanding of the non-profit sector and witness firsthand the impactful work being done to support Autistic individuals. Aspect’s comprehensive approach—from specialist therapies and autism-specific schools to community centers for adults—opened my eyes to the strides in autism awareness and support. It was particularly inspiring to learn about the significant progress in autism understanding, exemplified by the increase in diagnosis rates from 1 in 150 to 1 in 54 over 16 years.
During my internship, I had the opportunity to write about important yet often overlooked topics within the autism community, such as Men’s Mental Health and the challenges faced by older adults seeking diagnosis. These blogs were a platform to raise awareness and a profound learning experience for me. Through my research and writing, I gained a deeper understanding of the hurdles the autism community faces, including the higher prevalence of depression and the phenomenon known as the “lost generation” due to public misconceptions.
One of the highlights of my professional experience was curating and leading my first major project, “Michael Talks to Strangers.” This initiative featured Michael Theo, a star from “Love on the Spectrum,” as he conducted street interviews about autism. Being responsible for developing and publishing this project was a significant milestone in my career, allowing me to hone my leadership skills and further my passion for creating a more inclusive society.
As a student, I also had the chance to experience Australia’s relaxed work culture, which places a strong emphasis on mental and physical well-being. This approach, prioritizing collective thriving over rapid business advancement, was a refreshing perspective shift for me. It was a reminder that success isn’t just about being first in GDP standings—it’s about fostering a society where everyone can flourish.
I am deeply grateful to the many people who made this experience possible. I thank IES Abroad and my Aspect supervisors, Benedicte Marie, Julie Fenwick, and Hayley Robbins. I also want to thank my Wabash College Career Services supervisors and my professors and coaches at Wabash
College.
