Meet Mark T.

Mark T.

Ph.D. Student at University of Texas and self-advocate

I want to give back to those who have helped me along the way
Mark T.

For Mark, supporting teens with autism through the transition to adulthood is personal. Diagnosed with autism as a young child, he knows well how challenging it can be to navigate school and plan for life after college. 

Mark made gradual a transition to independent living and study during college and graduate school, and he now lives on his own in Austin, Texas, as a doctoral student in special education at University of Texas. 

And while he’ll bring lessons from his own experience to his work, he knows the challenges and opportunities for each person will be unique. 

“Challenges will vary from individual to individual,” Tapia said.  

Finding and understanding these differences will also be part of his work – he is working to publish a paper on predictors of success in postsecondary education for students with autism. 

His graduate program will prepare him for a career helping guide autistic teens and adults during the transition to post-secondary education.  

“I want to give back to those who have helped me along the way,” Tapia said. 

Mark Tapia is a member of the Family Advisory Council of the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network/Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health (AIR-P).

The story shared above represents the experience, views and perspectives of the individual(s) highlighted. We aim to share stories across the spectrum and throughout the life span, but the information provided on our website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider and does not replace the advice of medical, legal or educational professionals.