They say I amAutistic... I say I am the first Autistic Miami Herald Silver Knight Award Winner
Katie Santoro
I was diagnosed with autism at age 24. Girls are diagnosed less than boys because the test is based on male stereotypes! Also, it is a misconception that to be autistic you cannot be verbally gifted. My verbal skills are off the charts but I struggle with math, working memory, eye contact, and anxiety. I want all girls to have access to an earlier and accurate autism diagnosis. I want girls to know I joined a sorority due to my desire to fit in and that it is possible for them to fit into social clubs! I want autistic people to know you can join a sorority or fraternity, study abroad, and graduate college. I had to take some classes as much as 3 times but I graduated! I am living proof to never give up if school is challenging for you. I have held a full time job as a Scanning Clerk for almost a year! Please follow my story at @theautisticsororitychick on Instagram.
My biggest success was winning the Miami Herald Silver Knight Award in Drama in 2014. I won this award for my work in arts advocacy and the fight to keep funding for the arts in public schools. I spoke at the National Endowment for the Arts Press Conference with Alec Baldwin and members of congress. I also worked as a vet tech assistant at the Elephant Nature Park in Thailand when I was 16 years old.
Fun Facts
Hobbies and/or Interests: Yoga, Hiking, Kayak
Favorite Movies or Books The Four Agreements, I've been buried under years of dust
