This guest post is by Isabella Grbac, a performer who plans to study musical theatre at the University of Tampa. Isabella is applying for the Spring 2026 Making a Difference Autism Scholarship through KFM Making a Difference, the nonprofit founded by Kerry Magro. Kerry was nonspeaking until age 2.5 and was diagnosed with autism at 4.
Autistics on Autism: The Next Chapter shares stories from more than 100 autistic adults about what helped them while growing up and pursuing their dreams. All proceeds support KFM Making a Difference initiatives, including this scholarship program. To invite Kerry to speak at your school, company, or organization, submit an inquiry here.
By Isabella Grbac, WHS ’26
Ever since I can remember, I have always yearned to be a performer. I vividly recall back in fifth grade, at my elementary school’s annual talent show, when I sang my favorite rock song “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey. I felt so happy to be on stage and moved by the energy that radiated through the audience as they started clapping to the beat and encouraging me. That was one of the main moments when I knew that entertaining people of all ages and backgrounds with my stories, vocals, and other talents is the key to my fulfillment in life. Whilst I became more attached to this genuine passion, I knew that keeping this up would help me secure a job that would not only be a career, but help me build strong connections with others who share the same interests as me.
I do have to admit that recognizing my positive traits was not, and still is not, easy for me since I am on the spectrum. At the age of three, I could not verbally communicate with anyone yet, so I had to express myself through what my parents called “acting”, in which I would mirror characters’ movements from my favorite kid shows. I later participated in an elementary school PSA in which I revealed that I had autism, and I was gradually accepting and appreciating myself for who I was. Despite all the challenges of autism I faced, I eventually managed to overcome them by applying my own unique skills into everyday life, as well as gaining support from my family, friends, and professionals who helped me.
When I became a teenager, I longed to be cast in a larger musical theater role, even if it meant being placed in the ensemble instead. I kept auditioning, while progressively dedicating myself to the performing arts, specifically singing and playing piano. Finally, in my junior year of high school, I landed the lead role of Lucy Van Pelt in the fall production of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. As I gave it my all in each rehearsal and performance, I realized that I was meant to work in this community because of my commitment and perseverance. Every time I sing and/or act for audiences, there is always this compelling theater presence that lifts my spirits and gets people hooked into the characters I am representing, and the stories I am telling. The sassy, outgoing nature of Lucy was what made me love the chance to play her, and people praised my portrayal of her.
That is when I fully developed the feeling that my intellectual and imaginative thinking skills have helped empower me whenever I devote my time to completing important tasks. For example, even if teachers do not expect much from some assignments, I take my time and put in effort when researching and creating detailed, engaging documents or presentations about people or certain events I find interesting. Furthermore, if people were to ask me what my greatest strength is, it would have to be my keen memorization, as I am able to quickly and efficiently remember sheet music, script dialogue, and choreography for both stage shows and theater class assignments. It also helps when someone either forgets their lines or does not know what they should be doing. Prior to the Charlie Brown rehearsals, my friend–who also performed Lucy on alternating days–could not make it to some rehearsals due to her busy schedule. So, whenever she was present, I was always available to help her catch up on our progress. I believe this dedication to be a team player in any production is extremely useful in the theater industry.
As of today, I am planning to put my theatrical talents to good use by studying Musical Theatre in the University of Tampa so I can earn a BFA in that major. Gaining self-discipline and independence, as well as learning how to master the triple threat, will help me accomplish my future goals of performing in regional productions, theme parks, and/or on cruise ships.
Back then, I believed that having autism was preventing me from pursuing my goals. Now that I am maturing, I understand and embrace who I am, and my experiences have led me towards my goals of not only being successful in the performing arts, but playing the lead role in my journey. I never stopped believing…and now here I am!
Kerry Magro, a professional speaker and best-selling author who is also autistic, founded KFM Making a Difference in 2011 to help autistic students receive scholarship support for post-secondary education. Help us continue this work by making a tax-deductible donation here.
You can also invite Kerry to speak at your next event by submitting an inquiry here. Kerry speaks with schools, businesses, government agencies, colleges, nonprofits, parent groups, and conferences on autism, employment, college success, mental health, inclusion, and bullying prevention.
