Meet Andrew “DJ” F.
A new chapter of independence for one autistic teen fueled by a mother’s love and Autism Speaks
Andrew “DJ” F., 19
She reminded me that independence doesn’t mean perfection; it means progress. She and Autism Speaks have helped our family beyond words.
At just 19 years old, Andrew “DJ” F. (short for Drew Jr.) has already overcome barriers that could have held him back. Diagnosed with autism as a child, DJ faced challenges in school, social settings, and navigating life after the loss of his father. But his story doesn’t end there.
How did DJ go from feeling overlooked by mainstream colleges to thriving at an institution tailored to his needs? Along the way, DJ and his family discovered tools and resources that not only opened new doors for him but could also help others on similar journeys.
For DJ, finding the right college wasn’t just about earning a degree—it was about finding a place where he could truly thrive. After facing rejection and frustration with schools unable to provide the support he needed, DJ and his mother, Candice, discovered Beacon College, the first accredited institution in the U.S. designed specifically for students with learning disabilities and ADHD. But getting there was no easy feat. It took years of preparation and creative problem-solving to turn this dream into a reality.
What makes Beacon College special
Before DJ’s acceptance, finding the right educational fit was a journey of its own. Mainstream colleges often struggled to provide the accommodations DJ required, leaving him and his family discouraged after multiple rejections. Beacon College, however, stood out for its specialized programs and their faculty trained to support neurodiverse students. The campus fosters independence through individualized learning plans, small class sizes, and a built-in support network—precisely what DJ needed to succeed.
“When I first heard about Beacon, it felt like it was made for someone like me. It’s a place where I’m not just understood but celebrated,” DJ shared. “The accessibility here is phenomenal. They let me learn at my own pace, schedule and location with the support I need. They have a learning specialist. They have a sensory room, which I like to call my decompression chamber. It’s been paradise for me.”
DJ’s path to independence
DJ’s acceptance to Beacon wasn’t just a milestone for him; it was a testament to the support of his mother, Candice. From the moment of his diagnosis, Candice dedicated herself to equipping her son with tools to navigate a world not always built for him. Yet, her advocacy went beyond securing accommodations. Candice taught DJ practical skills like managing sensory overload in public spaces and effectively communicating his needs—skills that became invaluable as he prepared to live on his own.
One turning point in their journey came when Candice connected with J-Jaye Hurley, an Autism Response Team Specialist and fellow autism mom. J-Jaye shared tangible strategies, from breaking down overwhelming tasks into smaller steps to using visual schedules to ease transitions.
“J-Jaye taught us to think of DJ’s challenges as opportunities to find creative solutions,” Candice said. “She reminded me that independence doesn’t mean perfection; it means progress. She and Autism Speaks have helped our family beyond words.”
DJ’s first steps on campus
Moving to Beacon’s Leesburg, FL campus was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking for DJ. For the first time, he was responsible for balancing a busy schedule, managing his meals, and advocating for himself. It wasn’t easy, but DJ approached each challenge with the determination that had carried him this far. “At first, it was overwhelming,” DJ admitted. “But I remembered what my mom always says: ‘Take it one step at a time.’”
Beacon’s supportive environment helped DJ find his footing. His favorite class, psychology, opened new doors of understanding about himself and others, while the college’s peer mentorship program connected him with students who shared similar experiences. These relationships became a lifeline, offering both camaraderie and practical advice for navigating college life.
The role of community and advocacy
DJ’s success reflects the impact of a supportive community and access to the right resources. Autism Speaks provided Candice and DJ with the guidance they needed to navigate challenges and achieve milestones that once seemed out of reach. Today, DJ is thriving at Beacon College, embracing independence and opportunities in an environment tailored to his strengths.
A future without limits
Today, DJ is thriving. He’s formed new friendships, dove deeper into his passion for technology, and proven to himself—and others—that independence is not only possible but empowering. With dreams of becoming a mechanical engineer or an animator for Disney, Universal or Paramount, DJ is turning his goals into plans. Meanwhile, Candice has embraced her role as his biggest cheerleader, cheering DJ on from afar and trusting the foundation they’ve built together.
“Every time DJ calls to tell me about his day, I’m reminded of how far he’s come,” Candice said. “He’s living proof that with the right support, there are no limits to what’s possible.”
As DJ continues his journey at Beacon College, his story serves as a beacon of hope for families navigating the complexities of autism. It’s a reminder that every milestone matters and that everyone deserves a chance to thrive in their own way.
Watch the touching moment DJ, Candice, and their family friend J-Jaye found out DJ was accepted to Beacon College.
