It might be hard to believe that I wasn’t always as happy and determined as I am now, but not too long ago I had an enormous amount of stress and anxiety. My grades were less than stellar, I struggled with Asperger’s Syndrome and I was diagnosed with leukemia at 16. The cancer delayed my social and academic skills development compared to my peers in school. I attended three high schools in four years trying to find a program that would provide me with a strong support network where I could develop socially and academically. But nothing seemed quite the right fit – until my family learned about CLE.
Since enrolling in CLE, I have grown a lot. I work with mentors, tutors and instructors who listen to me and tailor their approach to my needs. They help me accomplish my individual goals, including going to college. Now that I have the right resources, I am even more motivated to set goals and work toward them.
The staff at CLE really provided what I needed to get where I am today. Now, I take up to 16 credit hours a semester and make all A’s and B’s in my classes. The staff also helped me land a seven-month internship at Disney World. I am thrilled about the Disney program and I’m ready to start my internship in “the happiest place on earth.” I can’t wait to take the social skills I have learned into a new environment and make new friends.
CLE taught me the social skills I need, and did so within a nurturing environment of understanding students and staff. My group of friends here are a tight-knit group, and I know we will remain friends for life.
