My Little Monster

By Margaret Dixon
Student at the Berkshire Center

I have Asperger’s Syndrome, which is a form of high-functioning autism.

When I am interacting with people I barely know, I often feel that this little fact is magnified about a hundred times.

In a way, it’s a little like an aggressive puppy nipping at my heels, while I try in vain to shoo it away so that I can act like a “normal” person for once. It can also be like a huge sign around my neck saying “Hey everybody, I’m a socially awkward freak!”

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An Attitude of Gratitude

By Julie Shepard, Academic Coordinator

Stefan and Jason are here at CIP Berkeley in December 2008 stuffing envelopes for a little extra cash. It’s one of the duties here that’s got to get done. With a spirit of enthusiasm and more exubberance than ever expected for 9:30 in the morning, Jason and Stefan began folding, sorting, stuffing, stamping. glueing, and boxing mailers that are about to go out into the community to announce CIP’s Summer offerings and on-going events. The have a tray of Hershey’s kisses and a radio playing KFOG to keep them inspired and alert. There are about 500 letters to be mailed.

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What Do I Have to be Happy About During Finals Week?

By Julie Shepard, Academic Coordinator

Students made joint comments during Academic Connections, which got listed on the board in the classroom. The list was so inspiring that I am sharing it here with you today.
I’m happy because….

• I worked HARD
• We’re moving on to new things
• I think I did well in my class
• I completed my class with a decent grade
• I have a sense of relief

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