Juggling College, Teens, & Neurodiversity with Strength
For Cindy, returning to college after more than two decades wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was a leap of faith rooted in purpose. A dedicated mother and passionate advocate for inclusive education, she’s navigating the challenges of student life while balancing the demands of a busy household.
“I started online, and that really helped me get used to school again,” Cindy shared. “It’s very different now than it was 22 years ago.”
Her decision to pursue a degree in education was fueled by a desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students who often go unnoticed. Inspired by her own children, Cindy has developed a keen awareness of how diverse learning needs can shape a student’s experience—and how small adjustments can make a big difference.
“I plan to teach general education, but I’ve seen how some kids fall through the cracks,” she explained. “They might not qualify for formal accommodations, but they still need support. I want to be the kind of teacher who notices those kids and helps them thrive.”
Cindy’s classroom experiences have reinforced her commitment. During her fieldwork, she observed inclusive practices that offered all students access to tools like extended testing time and quiet spaces—regardless of diagnosis or paperwork. “It was inspiring to see how those options were available to everyone,” she said. “That kind of environment helps all students feel seen and supported.”
Even subjects she once found daunting, like math, have become more approachable thanks to a standout instructor. “She’s incredibly attentive,” Cindy said. “She rotates group work, gives us time to prepare for questions, and even helps us create visual tools to study. It’s made a huge difference.”
Being neurodiverse herself, Cindy offers a unique perspective of personal and parental insight to the field of education.
As a student and parent, Cindy has learned to embrace flexibility and intentionality. “Scheduled time—even just ten minutes—can be more meaningful than a whole day that never happens,” she said. “It helps my family know when I’m available, and it helps me stay connected.”
Because her household is neurodiverse, Cindy learned early on that transparent communication and firm boundaries are essential not just for her children, but for her own well-being. This structure allows the family to function as a supportive unit, making her advice profoundly practical: "Budget your time wisely and use your support network—no matter how much you think you can do it on your own, you can't."