For autistic adults seeking independence, the path can be challenging, but MICC offers a supportive neurodiverse environment that helps them thrive. In a recent episode of "Today's Autistic Moment," hosted by Philip King-Lowe, Holt M., a graduating senior at MICC, shared his journey through MICC College and how MICC has shaped his transition into adulthood.
Holt is an MICC Ambassador, pictured here at a recent MICC Admissions Preview Days event. Back row, left to right: Ryan, Holt, Nick, Taylor; Front row, left to right: Lyndsey, Ann
Why MICC?
Holt chose MICC because it offered him a unique opportunity to build the skills necessary for independent living. When asked about his decision to attend MICC, Holt said:
Holt chose MICC because it offered him a unique opportunity to build the skills necessary for independent living. When asked about his decision to attend MICC, Holt said:
"I choose MICC because I have autism. To help me learn the independent skills such as cooking and cleaning since I didn't know how to do that before MICC. I'm originally from Texas, and there were no programs like MICC near there."
| Exploring Career Paths Holt chose the Hospitality certificate as part of the Careers curriculum through MICC College, and the program allowed him to gain practical experience through various internships and job site visits. He described his career exploration process: "I took this one career exploration class my [first-year], where I got to learn about the four certificates before actually choosing one. After I chose my certificate program, I had to visit some places to do my practicum sites, which is also an internship." |  Holt at Good Grocer |
Through his work at places like Ebenezer, Great Wolf, and Good Grocer, Holt developed skills ranging from stocking shelves to greeting guests to playing bingo with seniors. The hands-on approach helped him build confidence and discover his strengths.
The Support of MICC
MICC provided Holt with the resources and support he needed to manage the challenges that come with being autistic and learning to live independently. He highlighted some of the ways MICC helped him:
MICC provided Holt with the resources and support he needed to manage the challenges that come with being autistic and learning to live independently. He highlighted some of the ways MICC helped him:
"MICC has helped me with my autistic needs like transportation, laundry, and stress and anxiety management. Staff have been supportive, helping me focus on skill-building assignments and providing communication strategies for talking to many different types of people."
 Holt's MICC College senior portrait | Developing Independence and Confidence As Holt nears graduation, he reflects on the journey and the community at MICC that has made a significant impact on his life. He shared how the experience at MICC helped him embrace his autism and become more confident: "MICC taught me that my Autism is something to be proud of. My differences are also my strengths. The community at MICC is made up of people like me who are accepting and who are good friends." |
Holt also mentioned the sense of accomplishment that comes with graduating:
"It means I've accomplished something and moved one step towards independence."
MICC and "Today's Autistic Moment"
As a sponsor of "Today's Autistic Moment," MICC's partnership with the podcast has been valuable in promoting a positive narrative about autism and supporting the neurodiversity movement. Philip King-Lowe, the host, has created a space where autistic individuals can share their stories and provide insights into their unique experiences. Through this partnership, MICC continues to demonstrate our commitment to empowering autistic and neurodivergent adults to live fulfilling lives.
As a sponsor of "Today's Autistic Moment," MICC's partnership with the podcast has been valuable in promoting a positive narrative about autism and supporting the neurodiversity movement. Philip King-Lowe, the host, has created a space where autistic individuals can share their stories and provide insights into their unique experiences. Through this partnership, MICC continues to demonstrate our commitment to empowering autistic and neurodivergent adults to live fulfilling lives.
MICC is a nonprofit post-high school vocational and life skills training program for autistic and neurodivergent adults. Since its founding in 1996, MICC has remained dedicated to helping participants make successful transitions towards independent living, self-sufficiency, and true belonging.
Through hands-on learning, education, support, and resources, MICC participants achieve sustained, independent living, rewarding employment, financial security, personal growth and responsible citizenship. For more information about MICC, visit https://www.miccommunity.org/.
Media inquiries can be sent to [email protected].
Through hands-on learning, education, support, and resources, MICC participants achieve sustained, independent living, rewarding employment, financial security, personal growth and responsible citizenship. For more information about MICC, visit https://www.miccommunity.org/.
Media inquiries can be sent to [email protected].
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