For students with autism spectrum disorder and related abilities, socializing and participating in everyday activities can be challenging. That is why our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Community Based Instruction (CBI) field trips are so important. Recently, our students enjoyed a lunch outing at Burger Fi, where they socialized with their peers while practicing independence by ordering their own food. 

During the outing, each student ordered a meal complete with fries, a drink, and dessert. This gave them the opportunity to practice paying with their debit card. Some of the students’ favorite items included double burgers and milkshakes. Ryan, who skipped breakfast, indulged in a double burger, chili fries, a soft drink, and a milkshake, while Aaron ordered too much and ended up taking some of his food to go. 

Despite the challenges that can come with socializing and participating in everyday activities, our students thoroughly enjoyed their lunch at Burger Fi. It is one of their favorite CBIs during the school year, and it is easy to see why. Not only do they get to practice important life skills like ordering food, but they also get to socialize with their peers and enjoy a delicious meal. 

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. and other programs like it are essential for providing students on the autism spectrum with opportunities to practice socializing and participating in everyday activities. These experiences help to build confidence and independence, which can carry over into other areas of their lives. It is important to continue to support and advocate for programs like these so that all individuals on the autism spectrum can live their lives to the fullest.

The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students headed to the local fire department for their Community Based Instruction (CBI) field trip.  This CBI gave the students the opportunity to learn about what it entails to work in this field of helping others in the community when in need. 

The students had a great time learning about the requirements and skills that you needed in order to become a firefighter, paramedic or Emergency Medical Technician. They all asked amazing questions, but the best part was when they were able spray water from the fire hose! 

During their Career Series this month, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students were able to connect with special guests, Sean Dunne, who serves as the Resources Management Officer (RMO) in the Exploration Research and Technology Group at Kennedy Space Center, and Dean Reges, a celebrated educator, author, and prominent figure in the field of observational astronomy. Through Zoom, the students had the opportunity to listen to the guests share their personal career journeys and provide insights into their respective professions.

The initial guest speaker, Sean, recounted his childhood dream of working for NASA and shared how he persisted through multiple rejections before being offered a position. His unwavering dedication to contributing to mankind through his work at the Kennedy Space Center motivated him to apply to NASA a total of ten times until he landed an interview. Currently serving as a Resource Manager, Sean’s role involves securing adequate funding to support various space programs.

During his presentation, Sean emphasized the significance of possessing the four “P’s” – Personality, Professionalism, Passion, and Perseverance – to attain a fulfilling and prosperous career. He elaborated on the significance of each attribute and how they contribute to success. Towards the end of his talk, Sean expressed his awe at witnessing a rocket launch from the Kennedy Space Center and urged the students to witness one for themselves at least once in their lifetime.

In the subsequent segment, Dean Reges, an astronomer employed at the Cincinnati Observatory, shared his personal trajectory from high school to pursuing a career in astronomy. Dean disclosed to the students that his initial aspiration was to become a professional football player, but upon entering college, he realized that this dream would not come to fruition. Consequently, he pursued a career in teaching high school history and secured a position at a nearby planetarium, which ignited his love for space. After dedicating 25 years to astronomy, Dean authored six books and was featured in prestigious publications such as the New York Times and Washington Post.

The students posed a series of thought-provoking questions to Dean during the Q&A session. For instance, Daniel asked about his favorite planet, to which Dean responded that Saturn held a special place in his heart due to its fascinating rings that can be observed through a telescope. Meanwhile, Aaron asked Dean about his most cherished aspect of the job, to which he replied that he enjoyed sharing his knowledge about what he saw through the telescope. Other students inquired about the likelihood of extraterrestrial life or the possibility of alternate universes, but Dean explained that there is currently no evidence to support these hypotheses. As a result, astronomers cannot conclusively prove or disprove their existence at this time.

The presentations from Sean and Dean profoundly impacted the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S.  students, as they gained insights into careers that revolve around space. The importance of perseverance and persistence in pursuing one’s aspirations was a recurring theme throughout both talks. Additionally, the students were able to learn from the speakers’ personal experiences that their current professions were not necessarily the ones they had envisioned following their college graduation. Overall, the students were thoroughly engaged and enriched by the presentations.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sean Dunne and Dean Reges for generously sharing their wisdom and expertise with the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S.  students. Their valuable insights and personal anecdotes will be immensely beneficial for the students as they begin to navigate their transition from high school to post-secondary education and beyond.

 

During the 2023 Career Series, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had the privilege of meeting Gustavo Padrino, the Community Engagement Manager at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Gustavo shared his journey from college to employment and explained how he found his passion by making a difference for the neurodiverse community through the arts.

Despite majoring in Music and earning a bachelor’s degree, Gustavo discovered his true calling was not in this field. He was hired to work in the Broward Center for the Performing Arts finance department and was soon promoted to work across multiple departments. During this tenure, Gustavo participated in planning a sensory-inclusive program. He realized that he wanted to focus on making a difference for the neurodiverse community by providing accommodations for shows.

Gustavo’s passion for ensuring equal opportunities for theater enjoyment among individuals with disabilities compelled him to consider a career shift. He strongly believes that regardless of their abilities, everyone should have the chance to relish theater experiences. The aspect he cherishes the most about his job is the positive impact he has created by facilitating numerous individuals with disabilities and their families to participate in theater events together. The students of the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. extend their gratitude to Gustavo for sharing his story and insights about job opportunities available at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. His presentation has helped them think about their high school transition options.

Gustavo’s presentation on job prospects at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts has been immensely valuable for the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students, who extend their heartfelt gratitude for his contribution. By sharing his story and insights, Gustavo has provided the students with valuable information to start contemplating their high school transition choices.