Ben’s transformative experience at Transitions offered him the opportunity  to develop skills needed to thrive in college and beyond. Throughout this newsletter, you will see that he inspires others through leadership, advocates for himself, and has an unwavering commitment to making a difference.

At Winston Transitions, Ben focused on developing academic, social, and employability skills. After graduating in 2020, Ben volunteered in his local community, helping organizations such as Habitat for Humanity ReStore and Manna House. These experiences ignited his passion for community work and ultimately led him to enroll at UGA in 2022.

 

At UGA, Ben is a full-time student taking two classes per semester. His coursework includes Intro to Social Work, where he studies case management and social issues, and Intro to Global Issues, where he participates in a simulated United Nations program as a journalist representing China.

Ben has enriched his college experience with internships at

organizations affiliated with UGA, including Archway Partnership, Experience UGA, and the Carl Vinson Institute of Government.

 

His involvement in Destination Dawgs, a UGA post-secondary inclusive program for neurodiverse students, is also significant. Through this initiative, he engages with neurotypical peers and receives mentorship, which helps him navigate academic challenges while fostering independence.

 

Ben’s journey has also led to public speaking engagements, where he shares his experiences with UGA students, faculty, and leadership. One of his most profound moments was receiving a standing ovation

when speaking to the Board of Trustees and the University President.

 

Using the skills he developed at Transitions, Ben is focused on building relationships, applying himself academically, and demonstrating professionalism in all engagements. Some key essential skills include:

Communication • Active Listening • Self-Advocacy • Collaboration & Adaptability • Problem-Solving

While Ben is still in the early stages of networking and career planning, he aspires to work as a mentor for incoming freshmen at UGA post graduation, helping them navigate the challenges of college life just as 

others have helped him.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Ben offers valuable advice for neurodiverse students and individuals transitioning from high school into adulthood:

 

“Take your time. There is no single timeline for success.” 

(The average age of a college graduate is 27 years old, nationally)

 

“Gaining experience, volunteering, and internships help build confidence and professional skills.”

 

“Embrace self-advocacy. Learn to navigate challenges, ask for help, and advocate for yourself in academic and work environments.”

 

 

Contact John Civita, Director of Transitions Programming, at jcivita@winstonprep.edu or visit our website here