This guest essay is by Shalanda Guzman. Hi everyone! My name is Shalanda Guzman. I'm currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Information Technology with a concentration in Cybersecurity. I also have AuDHD, which has taught me the importance of perseverance, finding strategies that work for me, and embracing the way I learn and think. I'm passionate about learning new skills, growing both personally and professionally, and working toward a successful career in IT. Outside of school, I'm an entrepreneur who enjoys creating, cooking, and spending time with my family.
Growing up with AuDHD has been one of the biggest challenges of my life, but it has also shaped me into the person I am today. For a long time, I didn't fully understand why certain things seemed harder for me than they did for everyone else. I struggled with comprehension, listening, adapting to change, and feeling confident in social situations. There were times when I felt misunderstood or thought I just wasn't smart enough because I needed extra time to process information. Looking back now, I realize I wasn't incapable—I simply learned differently.
School was where I noticed those differences the most. I often needed directions repeated or explained in another way before they made sense to me. If too many people were talking at once or there was a lot of noise around me, it became difficult to focus on what was being said. It wasn't that I wasn't listening. My brain was trying to process everything at the same time. That could be frustrating because people sometimes assumed I wasn't paying attention or wasn't trying hard enough, when in reality I was giving it everything I had.
Another challenge was adapting to change. Whether it was a new teacher, a different routine, or unexpected changes in plans, it could feel overwhelming. I liked knowing what to expect, and when things changed suddenly, it often took me longer than others to adjust. As a child, I didn't always know how to explain those feelings, so I often kept them to myself. Over time, I learned that asking questions, creating routines, and giving myself grace made those transitions easier.
Even with those challenges, I also discovered strengths that made me realize my differences were not weaknesses. One of those strengths has always been my creativity. Ever since I was young, I loved drawing. Art became a place where I felt comfortable expressing myself without having to explain my thoughts out loud. While other people saw a blank piece of paper, I saw possibilities. Drawing gave me confidence during times when I struggled to find it anywhere else.
As I got older, I discovered another creative outlet that I fell in love with—customizing shoes. Taking an ordinary pair of shoes and turning them into something unique became more than just a hobby. It became a way for me to express myself and show people that thinking differently can create something beautiful. Every design tells a story, and every finished pair reminds me that my creativity is one of my greatest gifts. My autism has given me a different perspective, and I've learned to appreciate that instead of trying to hide it.
One lesson I've learned is that success doesn't always look the same for everyone. There were moments when I compared myself to other people and wondered why things seemed easier for them. Eventually, I stopped measuring my progress against someone else's timeline. I realized that every accomplishment, no matter how small it may seem to others, is worth celebrating.
One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning my associate degree and continuing my education toward a bachelor's degree in Information Technology with a concentration in Cybersecurity. There were times when balancing school, family, work, entrepreneurship, and the challenges of AuDHD felt overwhelming. I questioned myself more than once, but I refused to quit. Every class I completed reminded me that I was stronger than the doubts I carried. Each semester became proof that determination can take you farther than fear ever will.
Outside of school, I enjoy being an entrepreneur and creating experiences that bring people together. I own a small business where I use my creativity through cooking, baking, custom projects, and serving my community. Being able to combine my artistic abilities with my passion for helping others has helped me build confidence in myself. It has also shown me that my unique way of thinking allows me to approach problems creatively and find solutions that others may not see.
If there is one thing I want other autistic individuals to know, it is this: never let anyone define your potential. There will always be people who underestimate you because they don't understand autism or because your journey looks different from theirs. Don't allow their opinions to become your reality. Your path may take a little longer, and you may need different tools to succeed, but that does not make your accomplishments any less meaningful.
To parents, teachers, and others who support autistic individuals, I hope my story serves as a reminder that patience, understanding, and encouragement can make a world of difference. Sometimes we don't need people to lower expectations—we need them to believe in us, give us the opportunity to learn in ways that work for us, and recognize the strengths we already have. A little support can completely change someone's future.
Today, I no longer see my AuDHD as something I have to overcome. It is simply part of who I am. It has taught me resilience, patience, creativity, perseverance, and empathy for others who may be facing challenges that aren't always visible. Instead of focusing on what I struggle with, I choose to focus on the strengths that make me who I am.My story is still being written. I plan to continue my education, build a successful career in cybersecurity, grow my business, and continue using my creativity to inspire others. I know there will still be obstacles along the way, but I also know that I've overcome challenges before, and I can do it again. If sharing my journey helps even one person realize they are capable of achieving their dreams, then every challenge I've faced has been worth it. Autism has shaped my life, but it does not define my future. My determination my creativity, my faith in myself, and my willingness to keep moving forward define me. I hope my story reminds It's about embracing who you are, believing in yourself, and never giving up, even when the road is difficult.
This essay was submitted to the KFM Making a Difference scholarship program, founded by Dr. Kerry Magro to support autistic students pursuing postsecondary education. Publication does not announce a scholarship award.
