This guest post is by Corey Walker, a young man on the autism spectrum who applied to CUNY. Corey is applying for the Spring 2025 Making a Difference Autism Scholarship via the nonprofit KFM Making a Difference started by me, Kerry Magro. I was nonverbal till 2.5 and diagnosed with autism at 4 and you can read more about my organization here.
Autistics on Autism the Next Chapter: Stories You Need to Hear About What Helped Them While Growing Up and Pursuing Their Dreams will be released on Amazon on 3/25/25 and looks at the lives over 75 Autistic adults. 100% of the proceeds from this book will go back to supporting our nonprofits many initiatives, like this scholarship program. Check out the book here.
I was born and had my early development as a nonverbal Autistic person. As an infant, I was unable to babble, respond when addressed, physically move, and often had meltdowns as a form of communication, unlike neurotypical infants. My family, unfamiliar with these differences, was confused and worried, assuming I had a lifelong condition. At age 3, they sought a diagnosis from a neurologist, who identified me as having Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified, under the broader classification of Autism.
As I grew older, I began to move independently, babble, and respond to others as I made progress through Speech-Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Counseling, and Applied Behavior Analysis. Over time, I adapted to developmental milestones, and as I continued progressing, I gradually phased out of these services.
When I was ready for school, I started in a specialized classroom with a small student-teacher ratio and additional support services, including therapy. As I strengthened my motor skills, communication abilities, sensory adaptation, and social skills, I no longer needed ABA therapy.
After a few years, my teachers noticed that I was excelling academically and socially. I demonstrated strong intellectual abilities, advanced skills beyond my peers, and increasing independence in everyday tasks. As a result, I transitioned into a general education inclusion program.
For the first four years in general education (elementary and middle school), I received support from a paraprofessional, a special education teacher, and continued services like speech therapy and counseling. These supports helped me gain confidence in my academic work and social interactions. Through resilience and perseverance, I earned an academic achievement award in May 2018.
In high school, I became even more independent, needing fewer accommodations. I attended general education classes with minimal support, no longer required speech therapy, and continued counseling. My special education team determined that I could complete assignments and standardized tests without modifications, though I still received accommodations like extra time and a separate testing location. By achieving my goals in socialization and communication, I graduated from speech therapy altogether. In recognition of my dedication, I received another academic achievement award in May 2024.
My passion for advocacy grew as I recognized barriers facing Autistic individuals. I became involved with multiple community-based organizations, persuading them to adopt more inclusive policies, increase representation, and advocate for social justice initiatives that empower Autistic youth.
Determined to create change, I applied to university to pursue a degree in social work. I have already begun my advocacy work by collaborating with community organizations and elected officials to expand opportunities for Autistic individuals. With the skills and experience I have gained, I look forward to continuing this mission and achieving success in higher education.
Kerry Magro, a professional speaker and best-selling author who is also on the autism spectrum started the nonprofit KFM Making a Difference in 2011 to help students with autism receive scholarship aid to pursue a post-secondary education. Help us continue to help students with autism go to college by making a tax-deductible donation to our nonprofit here.
Also, consider having Kerry, one of the only professionally accredited speakers on the spectrum in the country, speak at your next event by sending him an inquiry here. If you have a referral for someone who many want him to speak please reach out as well! Kerry speaks with schools, businesses, government agencies, colleges, nonprofit organizations, parent groups and other special events on topics ranging from employment, how to succeed in college with a learning disability, internal communication, living with autism, bullying prevention, social media best practices, innovation, presentation best practices and much more!
