This guest post is by Connor Trang, a young man who attends Florida International University. He is an advocate 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 was 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.
What is “normal”? The idea often feels rigid, defined by narrow and subjective standards. Growing up feeling different, I have often questioned this concept. Through that questioning, I discovered a strength: a unique way of seeing the world that continues to shape my purpose as a designer.
Patterns, structures, and spatial relationships resonate with me deeply and fuel my passion for interior architecture. I am drawn to environments that are not only visually impactful but also purposeful, spaces that foster comfort, dignity, and belonging. My goal is to design with intention, creating inclusive spaces that support people of all abilities. Over the next year, I hope to expand my knowledge of universal design principles and further develop my technical skills in architecture and design.
I aspire to become a professional interior architect who specializes in creating accessible and inclusive environments. Whether that means designing sensory-friendly rooms or implementing solutions for physical access, I want my work to reflect empathy, creativity, and functionality. I believe that thoughtful design can empower people, and I am committed to shaping spaces that honor the full diversity of human experience.
One of my strengths is the ability to recognize patterns and make meaningful connections that others might overlook. I bring creativity and attention to detail to every project, translating abstract ideas into practical, people-centered spaces. I aim to challenge traditional approaches in architecture and contribute to a more inclusive and innovative future.
Beyond my professional goals, I care deeply about raising awareness around inclusive design and encouraging more representation in creative industries. I want to inspire others to pursue their goals with confidence, even if their journey looks different from the norm. Through mentorship, public engagement, and community work, I hope to lead by example and advocate for a more understanding and equitable world.
As I reflect on my growth, I am proud of how far I have come. In my early years, I struggled to express myself fully, and now I am writing my own college essay. One quote that continues to inspire me is by Dr. Kerry Magro: “Autism can’t define me, I define autism.” This reminds me that identity is not limited by others’ expectations. We each have the power to define our path and design a future that reflects who we truly are.
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!
