Nathan S.

It's just shy of one month since IOB student, Nathan, graduated from high school (Fall 2022). But for him and his mom, Jen, it still feels like yesterday. The excitement and pride on their faces – along with mile-wide smiles – have probably not left their faces the last few weeks. And for very good reason – Nathan's hard work, patience, and determination certainly paid off. Not only did he receive his diploma but also $22,500 in scholarships.

Nathan first enrolled in IOB programming in 2014. An energetic and eager-to-learn fifth grader, he took to books and YouTube to help him learn new skills. "Nathan had a natural love language for computers. He was teaching himself coding," Jen recalls. Finding IOB gave him the chance to further that learning, try new things, and work with mentors and peers. "No other educational environment offered this type of collaboration. IOB was welcoming, it wasn't therapy. It truly felt like home," continues Jen.

Over the last eight years, Nathan's skills have flourished and his interests, specifically in computer programming, have gotten even stronger. As a Digital Academy student, Nathan was first introduced to new technologies as well as being a part of a team during the Light the Hoan project. He credits one of the project's mentors, Hector, as playing an important role in his life. They still talk frequently – even today. He encourages him, answers his questions, and is always there if he needs him.

To Nathan and Jen, it's these small moments and gestures that have truly made a difference. They credit the IOB Team for gently pushing him out of his comfort zone and trying new things because the mentors and staff understood and encouraged his uniqueness.

IOB's Director of Educational Experience, Matt Juzenas, has had the fortunate opportunity to witness Nathan expand his skills and confidence.

"It has been truly wonderful to watch Nathan grow and develop his passion for coding over the past three or so years. I have had the opportunity to work with Nathan in our Digital Academy and 1:1 mentoring sessions. Nathan has grown into a natural leader with great self-awareness and a sharp sense of humor! The skills he has developed during his time at IOB have carried over into his personal life as he has seen great success in his work, school, robotics, and social lives. I can't wait to see what challenge he conquers next!"

But just because he got through that to-do list and graduated doesn't mean that Nathan is slowing down. He's currently collaborating with friends (both IOB and non-IOB) to develop a multiplayer video game and created a Discord where 207 people are actively contributing ideas and providing feedback.

Nathan will be heading to MATC in the fall. He credits his college readiness to the IOB mentors like Hector and Matt who have helped him prepare for transitions and the unknowns that college may bring. He knows he has the skills, tools, and resources to help him succeed even further on this new adventure!

Jen is excited too and wishes him nothing but joy and happiness in this next chapter. She's seen his self esteem grow and knows that will help continue his positive path towards independence. While society may have limited the dreams of individuals living with autism, Jen knows Nathan has what it takes to continue to make his dreams a reality.