Can you tell us when you started school with Aspect and how you felt about this at the time?
I started at Aspect in 2020 when I was in Year 7 at St John Pauls 11, Schofields campus. I then moved to the senior campus for Years 11 and 12.
I was nervous and upset when I started because I had only been diagnosed on the autism spectrum a few months earlier. Everything felt new, and I didn't really know what to expect. Looking back now, starting at Aspect was one of the most important steps in helping me grow.
What is one memory from school that has stayed with you over the years?
One of my favourite memories is having fun and joking around with my teachers. They made school enjoyable and helped me feel comfortable.
I also really loved the Year 12 retreat. It was a great experience and I especially liked having my own room. It was nice to have my own space while still being part of everything.
What does inclusion for Autistic people mean to you personally, and how have you seen it take shape in your community or friendship groups?
To me, inclusion means feeling comfortable enough to be yourself.
At Aspect, I felt comfortable in my class because I could joke around with the boys and have fun without worrying about being judged. Being around people who understood me made a huge difference. It's about having people around you who accept you for who you are.
What has attending an Aspect school meant for you, both inside and outside the classroom?
Aspect was a really important part of me growing up. I had amazing teachers, made great friends and got to enjoy lots of fun experiences like excursions.
It also gave me the chance to study the subjects I wanted and helped me build confidence in myself, both at school and outside of it.
Is there a teacher, support staff member or experience at Aspect that helped shape your confidence, interests or goals for the future?
All of my teachers helped shape who I am today.
They encouraged me to do things I didn't always want to do, but they knew would help me grow. They supported me through the good times and the hard times, helped me achieve my goals and always let me know they were proud of me. That support meant a lot.
What is something you wish more people understood about Autistic students and the different ways people learn, communicate or experience school?
I wish more people understood that autism can look different in girls and boys.
I also wish people realised how important a supportive environment is. Having teachers and classmates who understand you can completely change your experience at school.
What are your dreams and plans for the future?
I'm currently studying Business at TAFE while working two jobs.
I'd like to build a successful career, and one day I think I'd like to become a teacher's aide so I can help other Autistic children the way my teachers helped me.
Vivien is currently working at Woolworths as her primary job. She works in the Click and Collect department as a personal shopper and absolutely loves it. She is part-time at present but is aiming to become full-time permanent very soon.
She also works at KFC. She has held this job since school when she was in Year 10. She still works at KFC when she is not on shift at Woolworths.
Vivien is also completing a Certificate in Business course at TAFE, although with her work schedule she is thinking of deferring this so she can focus on her Woolworths career.
