In the autism community, there is something called the “cliff.” This is the point where an autistic individual ages out of the educational system. Alternatively, it occurs when they reach their capacity in the framework they are in. There is a plethora of support for autistic children and teens during their stay in the school system. Yet, finding services and supports for the transition can be difficult once that is over.

It is often referred to as the “cliff.” It can be the point where individuals transition from having what they need. Then, they have to restart the process as adults. For me that was plainly the age of 18. There were post-secondary plans early on. These plans began in the break between my sophomore and junior years of high school. The aim was to start the process of what life would look like after high school.

The last few days of high school can seem so sad yet confusing. I was blessed to have the opportunity to do things like two Job Experience programs. Saying goodbye to going to school can be tough. Something was routine for me. Even though there were challenges to overcome, it made the reality clear. Life as I knew it was over. I understood that my life would change. I needed to make plans for what life would be like.

Granted this process had started early as I had begun to interact with the transition coordinator in eighth grade. The transition coordinator excelled in managing the shift from residential to senior high school. She ensured everything was in place and explored what employment resources were available in the community. I had exclusive job shadowing opportunities. I was the first student from my high school to tour the then-new employment office. I saw the services they had to offer.

My parents were steadfast of me having plans. We began with a tour of the state vocational rehabilitation center as it was just over an hour away. It is one of the most renowned facilities in the country. It has 12 acres barrier-free under roof. This setup serves individuals with all disabilities, helping them get the training they need to have a meaningful life. During the tour, we fell in love with the center. It was something that we wanted to pursue.

There was continual pushback and resistance from vocational rehabilitation at the district level. It seemed impossible for me to achieve what I wanted. It did not seem like a reality. My mother did not back down from what was needed. She even tracked down the vocational rehabilitation counselor to make sure they had the documents they kept asking for. Yet, the target kept being moved. But we never gave up.

In the meantime, my mother was privy to hearing about the day services that I still go to even today. It was intended to give the skillset needed to garner independent living, employment, and education readiness. My mother and therapist thought that would be a temporary solution. This was to be until further plans were set for vocational rehabilitation planning.

I had participated in various employment programs in my senior high school. These included being a bag person and janitor at a grocery store. I also volunteered at our local ecumenical community ministry. Before that I had at various times volunteered for our local hospital pushing papers after school. I gained work experience during high school. I came to understand that employment was going to be a necessity in my life.

My parents were doing what was necessary. My other team members ensured that I was not going to fall off the cliff after high school. The transition was difficult. Yet, I overcame it. I was slowly and surely leading down the path towards where I needed to be.