Josh's to do list
- Get into St Andrews University
- Achieve well in January and June Examinations β on track for 1st/2:1
- Make 5 Friends
- Look into relevant experience as psychologist
- Come off Prozac
- Pass Driving Theory and Practical Test
- Travel independently to and from St Andrews (if I get in)
- Do a talk in Scotland
Where Josh's at
Last updated: 30/06/2008
I live in Guildford, Surrey, with my Mum, Dad, sister and 2 brothers. We are not what you would call a typical family. Both my brothers have Autism, and I have Aspergers Syndrome, a form of Autism. I was diagnosed when I was 15, and since then I have been giving talks to parents and professionals about living with Autism. I am about to finish my A Levels, and I hope to go to St Andrews University to study Psychology. I suppose I want to go firstly because, as much as I love my family, I feel like I need to break free, start to strike out on my own. I see this as my key transition into adulthood. Secondly because it's my dream to become a clinical psychologist as I have always wanted to help people and I think this is the best way for me to do it.
One of my goals over the next year is to make 5 friends at university. This may sound easy for most people but I am expecting it to be my hardest task. Give me a psychology text book and I will be happy for days, but ask me to go out during fresher's week and make some friends is going to be terrifying for me. I mean, how do you make friends??? Knowing me I will stand like a lemon watching people for an hour wondering what to do and then give up! If anyone has any ideas about how to survive fresher's week or how to make friends at uni please let me know!!!
Yes, it is sad it is finishing, we had the final yeardot meetup a few weeks ago, and there were a some tears from both the yeardotters and the film crew.
Thankyou very much for your very kind words. I set out to try and make a differance, and to show just what you said - that Aspergers isnt a barrier, and that all we need, is a little bit of the right support - like everyone really. It meens so much when someone like yourself recognises this, thankyou!
As for the blog, i have been mulling it over for a while now. I think i will return to my old blog, but i will take a few weeks/a coupple of months off. I have 3 more chapters of my book to write, and then do all the editing for it, but after all the writing is done, and prehaps some of the editing, i will revive the old blog (or create a new one with a link from my old one). That will probably be some time in Augast, possibly september.
Thanks again, i hope to see you on my new blog!
Josh
Josh (9 days ago) Report Comment
I'm quite sad that it's finished - I loved to read what you were getting up to and watching your videos! But all is not lost, is it? Will you be going back to your old blog?
"Well done" just doesn't seem adequate, somehow; what you have done over the past year is so much more than that. In acknowledging what you have done, I also acknowledge what I have done, too. You show everyone that Asperger's is certainly NOT a barrier to anything you or I or anyone else with AS wants to do. It might take a little more effort (and perhaps sometimes a little more surprise when it does happen!), but hey, an achievement isn't really an achievement unless you have to try for it!
I will be following your "new" (old!) blog, if you choose to go back to it, and wish you the very best for the future. Onwards and upwards!
Amanda (9 days ago) Report Comment
Sorry for the late reply - i have just come back from university so things have been a bit frazzled!
Thanks for your comments, it is always gratifying to hear people are following my story. I am glad you feel that bounderies can be broken - i firmly believe that aspergers syndrome can be a differance if ability, rather than a disability. Hmm, it sounds like a tricky situation with your friend. Personaly, i almost always tell people i have aspergers as i dont feel it is a big deal, and i am proud to have it, however it is really up to you, you know the situation far better than i do - go with your gut is what i say.
Good luck with your debate, and again, thankyou so much for your comment.
All the best
Josh
Josh (30 days ago) Report Comment
Well done Josh...you have done amazingly in the past year.
I am glad that you have shown that even though you have Aspergers (like myself)you are just like anyone else but alot better!
All that you have done so far has been incredible. You have inspired me and I shall continue trying my best to get the highers and degrees I need to become a primary school teacher!
I just ignore bullies, its not worth giving them the satasfaction so I walk away. perhaps I walk away from alot of things. Recently I lost my chance to make two really nice friends...I feel really bad because they tried there best to make me feel comftorble. I havent told anyone but one friend outside my family. I have met a boy with Aspies and he is proud to go out and tell everyone about it.In ways he has inspired me, I hint at him that I also have Aspies but he doesnt get it. I dont know wheather to tell him or not because of his compainer attitude..he is two years higher in school and is a good friend...but he is a bit to loud to stay with for to long...I sometimes leave the debating club we are members of with a sore head. we only see each other on that day... So Josh, what do you think I should do. my mum says if i want to and the friend that knows says no so its an equal divide.
well i shall talk again son, right now I need to research for our debating topic of why we should nit test on animals. (I would have prefared to be on the oppisition because Im better at argueing a point even If I dont believe in it)
As I said, you have done amazingly well and you have inspired me to try my hardest and ignore what people say. thank you for your great work. You will definetly go far in life and achieve all that you want to achieve. Good luck!
Aimz
Aimz (37 days ago) Report Comment
Thanks for your reply. I have made a note of your website and have registered to receive emails. Best of luck Sarahx
sarah (82 days ago) Report Comment
I think you are right, luckerly my accademic mum was very good at easing me into life at uni. She knew i wouldnt get along well with the drinking culture and so helped me find other ways of meeting people - like ents! it took some time, becuase as you said, i thought it best not to rush it. Thanks for the comment, it is really apreciated. Josh.
Josh (92 days ago) Report Comment
Dear Josh, I love your to do list. It's really tangible, which is always a good thing for that kind of list, I think. Regarding your question about making friends at uni, I would suggest that your ability to just stand and take things in for a while before making friends might actually stand you in good stead. Most people get really drunk in the first week, make lots of 'friends' and then find themselves trying to avoid them for the rest of their time at uni. A bit of circumspection never hurt anyone. And taking your time may mean you make a real friend as opposed to just a drinking buddy. I mean, nothing wrong with drinking buddies but it sounds to me like that's not what you're after. I guess my advice, for what it's worth, is to take your own time about making friends, and don't try to compete in an arena that doesn't feel comfortable to you. Go for the nice people, not the cool people: it'll turn out that the nice people are genuinely cool. The cool people aren't always genuinely nice (too busy trying to be cool!) Have fun! Naomi.
Naomi (93 days ago) Report Comment
I am so glad you see the diagnosis that way. it is really the best attitide and i wish you the best of luck. Thanks for your comment. Josh
Hi Claire
Yes, i have found the group work hard. But after a while i get used to it and as the course is good. Thanks - i hope i can get that first! Josh
Hi Sarah
i am so glad you found this and dont see it as being negitive. I wont deny it his going to be hard, but at the same time, it will be really rewarding and supprise you. I wish you the very best of luck, go to my website www.mugsy.org/josh, you can get my e-mail and feel free to contact me if you have any more questions. Josh
Josh (95 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh,
We have just been told that are 4 year old son has aspergers. When we first found out we were really sad and didn't know what his future would hold. I have been doing a lot of reading trying to understand aspergers and was really plased to come across your programme on channel 4 website. You have given me so much hope for my little boy and what he could achieve when his older. I was so touched by your programme and what you have achieved and your drive to do well.If my son can grow up to achieve as much as you, I would be so proud. Thank you so much for sharing your story with everyone and giving me more hope and understanding of AS.
Keep up the good work
Sarahx
sarah coxall (96 days ago) Report Comment
Hi,
I am taking degree level third year modules in psychology at the moment and also have aspergers. I have found the most difficult parts were the group work in 1st and 2nd year as it is so discriminating against minority groups like aspergers.
Am enjoying this year much more as no terrible groups !!!
Am on for a 1st / 2:1 - if I can do it, you can too !!!
Claire (99 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh I know what you mean about the "I'm so sorry" attitude. My son was finally diagnosed with AS on Monday after 7 years of my knowing he was different. I see it the same as you it is a challenge. There is nothing he can't do it's just that me may do it a little differently. Reading your page is an inspiration. Good luck with everything, hope you get the grades you want this year.
Rosa (99 days ago) Report Comment
Peter. You are right, anyone and everyone are potential friends. Personaly, i prefer having a small friend pool, so i may only have a few friends, but they will be really close friends, and you may think it is boring, but i find it really rewarding. but i see your point
Thank you both for writing
Josh
Josh (99 days ago) Report Comment
Good luck Josh,
I was diagnosed with AS two years ago at the age of 51! This was after my son aged seven was diagnosed.
AS can give you an edge. As for friends, I have no problem. Everyone is my friend. People I meetin the street or wherever can be my friends if it's only for a minute or an hour or for months.
How boring to have just a few friends? What do you learn from such a small "friend pool".
Peter Davies (100 days ago) Report Comment
hello josh,
I find it a real insperation to read about what your doing. I have a son also called josh whos 4 who is currently being assesed for aspergers. I am curenntly doing as much research as i can to see what i can do to help him. It really helps to read upon how you deal with life to see if there is anything i can help my son with. Sorry about the spelling i know its bad lol.
Keep up with the good work.
Lyndsay
Lyndsay (100 days ago) Report Comment
Martin - I am so glad you are going to try and get away from home. I know it wont be easy for you, but i think it is so worth while and i think after a while, you will start to enjoy your time with friends - not all are social/alcohol fiends! Best of Luck.
Amanda - Ouch, i can imagine how nasty having noisy neighbours could be - walls are always paper thin! Your comments about forums are very vaild, i know several forums where people go more to vent when there AS gets ontop of them. I will have bad days, like everyone, and for me that will involve being annoied at not being able to understand peoples facial expressions. But on the whole, i think AS can be a positive thing, it is about attitude, you can eather rule AS or AS can rule you. Thanks for your comments about my grades - they are much apreciated.
Josh
Josh (104 days ago) Report Comment
Hi again Josh
One of the biggest problems I'm having this year is noisy-ness of people on my corridor! Last year it wasn't so bad but this year I've been woken up many times, and throughout the day people play their music really loudly! I'm glad you'll be in a smaller annexe in a small hall; from your beginning of term videos it looks like where you are now there are a LOT of people.
Well done in your exams too; the grades you got are pretty amazing! And to think that most people don't seem to make that much effort in first year...
I've been thinking about you, and I've been thinking about forums. I've been on a few autism/AS forums, and most of the people there seem to describe their inability to understand body language/facial expressions, how much their sensory issues impact on their lives, how difficult it is to fit into mainstream education, how little support they get, how their obsessions take over their lives... I'm not saying they don't have the right to "complain" (I don't really see it as complaining), but you don't seem to do that - you seem really quite "normal". I think that's why it's good that you have all of these videos and blog entries. It shows people that we're not all really weird beings from a different planet... we're just a little bit different, if that makes sense?
Amanda (106 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh,
I have been following your story since the beginning of the year, and can I say you have inspired me to rethink my approach to university. Like you I find socialising very difficult almost to the point of frightening,although I have knot been diagnosed with AS, I fear I might suffer from it. I did move away to study History at the University of York, but after less than a week I came back home to Plymouth after I found making friends virtually impossible. It was difficult to let my guard down after being bullied by people my own age for the best part of 12 years, and with the intense social/alcohol frenzy of Fresher's, I found that nobody could understand that I was finding things extremely difficult by just being away from my comfort zone let alone socializing with complete strangers! Since transferring to Plymouth University, I have remained almost a social recluse, thinking that I must be the only person in a uni who actually cannot make friends. Thankfully I have seen your story which has motivated me to get my BA (hons) and apply to a university away from home so I can, as you put it 'strike out on my own' and become an independent adult. I look forward to watching your story as it unfolds,
Kind Regards,
Martin
Martin (107 days ago) Report Comment
Thanks for your comment. It was really intresting to read about your experiance with aspergers and university, and i am really pleased to hear you are doing well. Yes, i did have people telling me i should just have more fun, that first year is about having fun and not about work, but even when they say that, i am infact having fun. I enjoy my course (even if it does prove to be a headake sometimes!) and i really enjoy ents. I totaly agree about the not partying/getting drunk thing, when i work the bop (doing lights for the twice a week disco/cheesymusicfest), everyone gets really drunk, and dances to loud music - i honestly couldn't stand to do that. I sometimes venture off stage to see what the lights look like, but could never dance along/drink with them. In fact, the most alcohol i have ever had is 2 units in a MONTH. but hey, it is what i enjoy, so i am doing to do. Anyway, i will stop there. Thanks again for getting in touch. Josh
Josh (114 days ago) Report Comment
I had to stop because I typed too many characters ;)
You said in one of your videos that you like the Ents crew because itâs socialising, but with boundaries, if I remember correctly. I know what you mean about that; Iâm a member of a musical theatre group, who meet at a certain time every week and do a certain activity, and it ends at a specific time. Itâs doing something with people, but itâs not unstructured.
I could go on for longer, but Iâll stop there. You seem like a really lovely person. I would be friends with you if you were here!
Amanda xx
Amanda (116 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh.
I found this page a few weeks ago. I'm 19 (nearly 20! Wow, that makes me feel old!) and in my second year at Manchester university, still living in catered halls. I was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome around a month ago. I havenât yet personally met anyone else (at least, not knowingly) who has it. But I came across you and your videos and wow, I'm nodding along with so much of what you say!
I have few friends. I actually made quite a lot last year in halls; it seemed to me like I didn't have to make that much effort because first-years seemed to have an innate tendency to stick together! My hall is a lot smaller than yours, too, with less than 100 people. This academic year, all the friends I had moved out, and I'm now left with very few. I'm finding that friendships are quite hard to keep. The ones I do have are ones worth keeping, though :)
I spent a lot of my time doing university work at the beginning of the year. I didnât think so at the time, but I now think it might have been to stop myself thinking about the social side of things, and how I wasnât doing very well.
I think you are amazing to talk in front of all of those people. You said in a previous comment that it doesnât make you nervous. I know Iâm not able to talk in front of people for more than a minute without breaking out into a cold sweat!
Do you ever get people that donât know about your Aspergerâs telling you to âjust get out there and have some funâ? Iâve never been to a bar or club in Manchester (or anywhere else, for that matter!) and I have never been even close to being drunk, but people on my course keep telling me itâs such a fun thing to do. I know that I wouldnât like the masses of people, or the loud music, or other people getting drunk, the staying up late, the lack of time-frame... I donât know why it has to be such a central part of student culture and seemingly, identity...
Amanda (116 days ago) Report Comment
I know what you meen about missing a day at a club. I missed an Ents meeting a few months ago, and although nobody thought it was a big deal - i couldnt get to sleep that night - i couldnt stand the thought that i hadn't gone, so i know how you feel. Thankyou, and i wish you the best of luck
Josh
Josh (117 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh, Im Julies daughter and as she said I have also been following the videos you have done! Well done on getting into St.Andrews! Your doing a great job and I think your doing great so far. I also cant go up and make friends easily, I cant even go up and talk to my own friends and talk, they come to me. I also feel dreadful for missing a day at any club I would hate to miss even two minutes of the debating club at my school!
Good luck for the future and congrats for what you have done so far!
All I can do is repeat what has been said and that you seem very nice and like a good guy!
Take care and have fun at uni,I think you do exceedingly well in uni!!!!
Aimz
aimz (118 days ago) Report Comment
Josh (119 days ago) Report Comment
Hey I saw you well on TV you have Aspergers. I'm 13 and my big brother does but I know Aspergers is part of 'Autism' and all but really I don't see how he's any different to someone with out Aspergers as he is normal except he is like really good at science and acting. Well I think it is cool how you do year dot.
Anya (120 days ago) Report Comment
Sophie - LOL - going out every night and getting wrecked isnt quite my cup of tea - but setting up and running the events people get wrecked in is very fun! I am really glad you found the program intresting. Uni is going well, the usual pressure of impending exams and coursework, but i guess you get used to it!
Rosie - Of course i remember - Manny gave me such trobble, i think you were one of the few who could have any control over him! If you add me on myspace/facebook, i would love to catch up and hear what has happened to the yard since i have been gone!
Matt - Thankyou, although giving the talks for me really isnt stressful - its just like talking to someone, plus it is such a rewarding thing to do.
Julie, Rosie, Sophie, Matt - Thanks again for getting in touch. Josh
Josh (120 days ago) Report Comment
Hey Josh,
Just watched your episode on channel 4. Firstly wanted to say big well done on getting into St.Andrews Uni! Looks like you've settled in well :)
Seriously, looks like you've achieved so much in your life its really inspirational. Giving those talks like in Belfast in front of so many people, god woulodn't want to be in your shoes!
Well done keep it up mate :)
Matt
Matt Pyle (121 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh, you may not remember me but i was at Wyvenhoe many years ago with you. I rode the naughty little black pony Manny.
Wish you the best of luck in the future :)
Rosie (121 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh
I've just watched your YearDot episode from Monday 2nd March and I just want to say how insightful I found your program.
It was really interesting to hear about social situations from the point of view of a person with Asperger's.
I also think it's great that you're raising awareness and helping other people to understand more about it.
I hope your university courses are going ok and that you're not going out every night getting totally wrecked!!
Take care and I wish you all the luck for the future.
Sophie x
Sophie (122 days ago) Report Comment
Hi there Josh, I wanted to write to tell you you have 2 new Scottish fans here! Your videos are inspirational. My daughter is 13 and has AS. She was diagnosed age 5, but only recently was told about her DX. School has been a struggle, and she is now in High School and really beginning to blossom academically. Something I never envisaged in those early years. She would love to go to uni like you, and hopes to become a teacher. Like I say, you have come a long way and achieved so much already. You are clearly a very capable, motivated and intelligent fellow, and I'm sure with your hard work and determination, St Andrews will prove to be a wonderful springboard for you. Your videos have made me smile with you, and even shed a few tears. Tears of pride for all you achieved in such a short time. I hope my daughter, who has been following the videos with me, can follow her dreams just as you are doing. You are indeed an inspiration. We will watch this space for your latest antics!
Take care Josh,
Julie
Julie (122 days ago) Report Comment
John - thankyou, I do try to see all the bad stuff as a motevator, rather than a depressor - i usualy sucseeed, but sometimes it gets the better of me for a bit. LOL - believe me, i am not that bright - i seem to have to spend all my free time with my nose in a book!
Sean - Thanks for getting in touch - its always great to hear from another speaker. i am glad you enjoyed the program
Josh
Josh (123 days ago) Report Comment
Hey my names Jayde. Am 18 years old. 2008 was my year dot as it was the first time i became homeless. It was hard at first and a bit scary as i was on my own with nowhere to go. I got put in a youth hostel and met some good friends who i still keep in contacted with. It was easier because we were all going through the same thing together. After 4 months in my first hostel i got transfered to another hostel that could help me with my needs because i am deaf. After less than a month at that hostel i left because my room kept getting broken into and my stuff was going missing. I went back to the homeless unit and they said they couldn't put me anywhere else because i left the previous hostel. That was in December. Its March now and i still haven't found anywhere else to stay. I dont no why am telling you this lol but i think its good that your making people more aware about your disibility. I hope you pass all your exams and have a good future ahead of you. Jayde x
Jayde (123 days ago) Report Comment
josh don't let the past years and exprience hold you back, whatever you had dealt with through secondary school should have only made you stronger . you are far from an average man and will one day be a great GP or a famous phycologist. you will have no problems making friends believe me, i envy you for your intelligance as you can probaly tell by my spelling im not da sharpest tool inda shed.lol. take care m8 and keep doind what you do best.x
john (123 days ago) Report Comment
hi Josh i saw your programe yesterday i really tapped into some of the things you were saying i have aspergers syndrome myself and i'am english but i live in ireland and i do talks myself i picked up a few things from watching you talk fair play to you aspergers needs a voice i know how you are feeling about exams i went through the same thing myself
Sean (123 days ago) Report Comment
Michaela - thanks for your responce to the post question. I am glad you can see how important this is to me, and why i need good grades - and thanks for thinking i have nothing to worry about - i hope you are right!
Maura - thankyou, it is really nice to get such good feedback
Julia - wow - you ARE comming at this from all angles! I hope your daughter is finding st andrews as enjoyable (and challenging) as i am. Lol - my organisation is very poor - i would be lost without my PDA i really would. Thanks again.
To everyone who has commented. I just want to say a big thankyou. I am honestly overwhelmed by the level of responce i have got. I think i have responded to everyones comment, but if i have missed you out, i am really sorry. I really love getting this feedback, and the knowleage that people are out there following my story is such a heartwarming feeling. Thankyou all so much
Deepest thanks
Josh
Josh (123 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Kerry - Thankyou so much for getting in touch, what you said was really kind. I wish you and your brothers the best of luck, it is a hard road, no doubt, but it is travelable. Thankyou again.
Jacky - Thank you, that is a huge complement. however it isnt all down to me. My parents and friends have helped me hugely. Move over, Aspergers syndrome may have some limitations, but it also allows me to do excell in others - for example it helps with my public speaking, it gives me my drive and passion for psychology - while it imposes unusual limits on me, it also helps me break others, for which i will always be greatful. Thanks again for your comment, it was really touching.
Hannah - thankyou, one of the key reasons i am doing this project is to try and help people, and if you have learned something form it, then it makes it all worth while. thanks again, and i wish you and your boyfriend all the best.
Sophie - it is cheesy but i will let you off! lol! As for finding someone, i dont have much luck in love, but thankyou, and i hope you are right.
Rachel - thanks for your advice, getting off prozac was one of the hardest things i have had to do, and i am really glad i didnt use another drug to help. However now that i am off it i am really glad i came off it - i know now that what i acheve is due to me, and not some chemical whorling around in by brain. Thanks again for your comment, it is really apreciated.
Josh (123 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Luke - Things are going well, lots of work at the moment, but its what i signed up for, and i do enjoy it (well, most of it!). The highlight of my week is probably my work with ents, and so that keeps me going at the grind stone thought the week.
Hi Gary - I think you are right, and i have met a lot of the right people at st andrews - especialy though the ents crew.
Josh (123 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh,
I'm also a late diagnosed Aspergers person. I'm nearly 16 and wasn't diagnosed until I was 9 or 10.
I used to get bullied at school and I still do. It's only really boys that feel a need to bother me and I find it really hard to make friends. I'm lucky to have the LSU [Learning Support Unit] to go in for break and lunxh times. I'd be lost without it.
I think your amazing. I don't think I'll be going to university. I think I'll just study chhild care at college and then get a job.
Miriam (124 days ago) Report Comment
Hello Josh, You are a very inspirational fellow and should be proud of yourself. I have an autistic brother and my daughter just started at St Andrews (New Hall) in September last year - so your story interests me from ALL angles! Just keep on being as organised as you are, and you will find things will fall into place for you, I'm sure of that. Routine is the answer! Take care and good luck to you.
Julia (124 days ago) Report Comment
Loved your programme. Really inspiring. Well done. Keep up the good work..
maura (124 days ago) Report Comment
i don't think so,it is something that is important to him and he wants to do well so its only natural that he is worrying..but i personal think he has nothing to worry about as he seems very bright and very determent.keep it up
michaela robbins (124 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh
Met your Dad at a conference last week and he suggested I watch the programme! I did and it was really encouraging for me to see how well you are doing. My 7 year old son has Aspergers and he struggles with so many aspects of life at school. Seeing you at University is inspiring even thpugh I know it must be a real challenge for you. thanks for taking part in year dot and being willing to talk about your experiences with Aspergers. Good luck and keep on going - I'll be watching again next week.
Philippa (124 days ago) Report Comment
Hello, I just watched your yeardot program on channel 4, and though I dont have much in common with you, I have been on prozac and got off it, My advice is, please dont except any other drug to help you get off it, Just use your willpower, tell yourself that your a brilliant person, from what iv seen you are, and that you dont need anything to alter yourself. I give you my best wishes and hope you acheive from life everything you hope for.
Rachel (124 days ago) Report Comment
Hi josh, i was watching channel 4 and i saw you...you actully took my breath away without sounding cheesey....!!!
all i could think about when i was watching the tv program, ur gunna find sum1 who loves u sooooo much n i can garentee ull treat em rele nice!!! contact me yerrr?
Sophie xx
Sophie Lawrence (124 days ago) Report Comment
Hey Josh.
Im watching you this very minute on year dot.
My boyfriend is 18 and suffers with aspergus and just reading your blogs and watching you today has taught me things about him that I didnt know. So you have taught me some vital information...And for that I am grateful. You are doing things I dont even have the courage for and I dont suffer with Autism.
Well done. Keep your head up. And party as hard as you work...you deserve it.
xPeacex
Hannah (124 days ago) Report Comment
Thank you Josh. I have been following your progress via the TV programme. You have done so well. To be where you are now, to live regardless of the limitations your condition forces upon you is not only admirable, it's heroic.
Jacky Cook (124 days ago) Report Comment
Ok I just turned on the telly and saw you and seeing this has seriously touched me. My brothers are autistic, the eldest one is actually your age and Aspergers and facing a lot of the same kind of challenges. It really touched me watching it, just knowing how much of a challenge it can be to overcome things and I just wanna say keep your chin up! It really did touch me and I hope that you succeed like you deserve to :)
Kerry Watt (124 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh
bee watching you today . Wanted to say hello
I am currently a PhD candidate looking at how music can help people within the autisitc spectrum in terms of cognition, communication etc
I am interested to see what you think about labelling in terms of what is Apsegers ? Is it sometimes a conveniant label? Can music help people with Apsoergers. Can it affect facial expression, bdy language etc. If so , how?
I would love to hear yout thoughts on my thesis and any ideas you may have.
HA ha just heard you say on TV....."in the past people seem nice and often they are not- just thought hope that won't be me!!!
Also I read Psychology at the University of Manchester and may have deas you could be interested in?
My MSc was also in Manchester looking at the effects of music on cognition for people with profound and complex learning disabilities
So thats all good luck and hope to hear from you -
Adam Reece (124 days ago) Report Comment
Keep it up mate you will make friends when the right ones come along and you will know that so good luck
Gary Hanson (124 days ago) Report Comment
hew is it goint at st andrews
luke (124 days ago) Report Comment
hey soz about the spelling misttakes
luke (124 days ago) Report Comment
I hope things are going alright for you because i cant speak to people but i have not been diagnosed will anything all they say is it is anxiati.
ROBERT STACEY (126 days ago) Report Comment
Josh (128 days ago) Report Comment
hay josh just keep your head in the book and do youe best that is you can do
luke (130 days ago) Report Comment
Josh (135 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh, I saw you on Yeardot last week and I just wanted to say that I hope you're enjoying being at uni. I was really pleased to come on here today and see that your exams went so well. Enjoy celebrating your success!
Catherine (136 days ago) Report Comment
Josh
Josh (141 days ago) Report Comment
Hey, Josh i have been following your journey, i think you need to remain positive with your exams. Stay calm and smile. You are a remarkable person keep up the work! x
Kimberly (141 days ago) Report Comment
Gillian, thankyou, but please remember, there is always hope, it is something you can smother, you can squese, you can crush, but you can never kill it - it is what has kept me going all these year. Thanks again
Shazzer, thanks, i am still getting on well, infact my last set of exam results were rather suprising!
Again, Thankyou all
Josh
Josh (141 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Dominique, i am about to post a blog with my latest exam results, (its good news), i hope you enjoyed the progam!
Hi Emma, Thankyou so much for posting - i am glad you are pleased i am talking about it, i know some people can get very scared when i talk about aspergers syndrome, and so it meens a lot that you are pleased i am talking about it
Hi Katy, Again, thankyou for your comment, even though i have now settled in, it is still good to know that i wasnt the only one panicing about uni and having trobble settling in. Thanks again
Josh (141 days ago) Report Comment
Lisa, WOW! i think that is some of the highest prase i have ever gotten - you are too generous! Thankyou, i think my friends and family (accadamic and biological) are proud. I will post a blog with my first uni results - just promice me you dont start shouting at the screen as you start scrolling down the page! LOL! Seriosly, thankyou, thankyou wall for your messages, I love reading them, and they never fail to make me smile.
I have asked the people in the YearDot office to let me see the back dated messages, and so ...
Josh (141 days ago) Report Comment
Alan, thanks for posting the other half, it is great to hear the story to where you found the 'doggeral', and thanks again or it - i love it!
Hi Kristi, It turns you you were right about my exams - i definatly was worrying too much, I just got my last exam result (i will post a blog soon and you can see what i got!). As for social life, it is currently 2 AM and i have just got back from lighting an amazing bop, and i am going back 2mo (no lectures until 11 Am so i am still awake for them - Brillient!). Ents has proved to be my social salvation, as infact have the Yeardotters - it has been great meeting up with them, it is always a highlight for me. I Hope this semester i will get to do some more ents - i find it oddly relaxing, and that i think will also help with my exams - in a kinda round about way!
Josh (141 days ago) Report Comment
Josh, I read your reply and thought I would 're-post' the first part of my comment for your benefit, then you can see the tie-in to the second part of the comment that you did 'get'. Once again 'All the Best'. So here goes:
Josh,
The every best of luck to you Josh, with your determination & resolve showing
through on the TV just now I am sure you will do well. May I be so bold as to suggest that you 'read' what I shall call a doggerel - for want of a better word, some folk call it a poem!
My GrandParents wrote it down for me the day that I 'left' home to go to a boarding school in the '50s.
It can be found on the following webpage and is {en}titled "It Couldn't Be Done" by Edgar Albert Guest.
Personally I think you HAVE done it. Good luck to you now and for whatever the future DOES hold for you.
Alan
Alan (142 days ago) Report Comment
Josh, I think you are definatly worrying about your exams too much! When I was at Uni (I left because I had oppurtunity to go to Australia for a month) I enjoyed the social aspect soo much. Its so much fun. When I saw you on TV, I hink I worried that you would rely on this and your other social networking sites to suppress your need for social activity. When I read your blogs, I am pleased you are getting on well in your exams but we all know you are an intelligent and deermined individual! I want to see you talking about the fun evenings you have out and the silly antics you get up to! Universities not jst for working, its a life experience, just don't forget to live it!
Kirsti x
Kirsti (142 days ago) Report Comment
hi josh was watching your YearDOT the other day and I am so glad you beat the medicine and you got into St Andrews
steph (142 days ago) Report Comment
hi josh.
saw you on tv today. think you are an inspiration to us all. your friends and family must be so so proud of you. i dont know you but i was so proud of you that i was crying watching the programme and shouting will done to the tv when you got your exam results.lol. anyway just wanted to say well done for not giving up and well done for getting what you want. you obsviously worked hard enof for it. enjoy your time at uni while you can, its meant to be fun as well as hard work. good luck for autism bill. good luck for everything in the future you really deserve it. and you can do it!!!
from joshs number 1 fan lisa
lisa (142 days ago) Report Comment
To all others who posted but whos message fell off the end, Thankyou so much for posting, if you want to post it again i would love to read it.
Thankyou all again for your posts, this has been an amazing day for me.
Josh
Josh (142 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Rob, Thanks, looking back it seems like another world, another reality from this one, but it was a reality that was so hard to escape from. I hope you didn't find the Diagnosis hard to deal with - i know some people can find it a bit of a shock. Hearing my name pop up all the time?! LOL oh dear what have people been saying!?! LOL
Alan, Unfortunatly i only got your correction message, but i went to the web address and it was so touching. I have always felt like i have been up against the odds, it just reminds me how hard i have had to battle, and how far i have come. I am always looking forward to see what the next problem is, yet i rarely look back to see how far i have come. I have saved the link in my faverotes and i think i will be comming
Josh (142 days ago) Report Comment
Francesca, it is so gratafying to hear that, it brought a smile to my face after a rather long day.
Laura, I love to hear that other people have gone though the same problems, whether they have Aspergers syndrome or not, many of our problems are ones we all face, and your comment shows that.
Ellie, it sounds like i could use some of your training! You are obveously right on the money as i have found since i have joined Ents and become part of the team, i have naturaly been walking with my shoulders high, smiling more, and keeping my head up. I think a lot of people with Aspergers syndrome could benifit from what you have to say - do you do much lecturing to people with aspergers syndrome?
Josh (142 days ago) Report Comment
hey Josh , i think you are amazing, i watched this show about you today on t.v and it was so nice to hear your still doing good !!!
francesca (143 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh,
I saw you move into Uni today on TV and I am was very moved by what you said and did. When I had my freshers week at the university of Chester last year I was very worried before hand what was going to happen. I wish you all the best.
Laura (143 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh, saw you going to uni on TV today and I'm sure you've made friends by now as you come across as a lovely guy. As part of my job I train people in confidence-building techniques and I just wanted to say don't worry,when you're in a new social situation, always remember everyone feels like a spare part, it isn't just you! Some people may look at ease and confident but we're all different and I can guarantee you aren't alone in feeling daunted. Just walk in with your head held high, get those shoulders back because your height is an assset, don't try to hide it, smile, look at people's mouth when they're talking if eye contact is too much, and always have some ice-breakers at hand - my favourite, after asking the usual where are you from etc, is to mention a book you read, band you heard or programme you watched and ask if they caught it and what they thought. But above all, be yourself Josh, as you seem a very nice person to be with lots to offer potential friends. Good luck!
Ellie (143 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh I was whatching your TV Story today I'm Gald that you got into St. Andrew's Good Luck
Regards
Kris ...
Kristopher Wilson (143 days ago) Report Comment
Hey Josh! its Rob from school. Just saw you on the tele. i think its amazing how much you have acheived since school, alot more than most the idiots there that gave you a hard time undoughtably. I was diagnosed aspergers just after leaving school so i find it really encouraging to see you doing so much with your life and hearing your name pop up all the time.
Robert Keech (143 days ago) Report Comment
Josh, For your ease I should have entered the web address 'from/for' my last message {Re. 'It Couldn't Be Done'}.
It is:
http://rpo.library.utoronto.ca/poem/901.html
This address shows the version that I was told, sorry I left it 'out' earlier.
Alan
P.S. I blame 'Ageism'!!
Alan (143 days ago) Report Comment
The every best of luck to you Josh, with you determination & resolve showing through on the TV just now I am sure you will do well.
May I be so bold as to suggest that you 'read' what I shall call a doggerel - for want of a better word, some folk call it a poem!
My GrandParents wrote it down for me the day I 'left' home to go to a boarding school in the '50s. {& I a have 'used/referred to' it more than once throughout my life!}
It can be found on the following webpage and is {en}titled "It Couldn't Be Done" by Edgar Albert Guest.
Personally I think you HAVE done it. Good luck to you now and for whatever the future DOES hold for you.
Alan
Alan (143 days ago) Report Comment
justed watched u on channel 4, your such a sweetie! i hope u are still gettin on well at uni, i was so happy when u got the good marks!
shazzer (143 days ago) Report Comment
you are doing so well just belive in yourself i have a 15 year old son with the same illness and you have gave me hope that he will some day follow in your foot steps the only advice i can offer is rember every exam trust in your self and rember you are doing so well be proud of yourself and i will be logging in each day to see how you are feeling take care and good luck
gillian young (143 days ago) Report Comment
hi josh, i just watched you on channel 4 and you were so sweet! you have nothing to worry about xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Chloe Montague (143 days ago) Report Comment
Josh! I just watched yeardot and couldnt help myself leaving a comment. I honestly think you've done fantastically to settle into Uni so quickly! I had some serious issues settling in myself as i found the whole thing very daunting, and i was only 30 mins from my home! It took me the WHOLE of the first term until i started to feel comfortable! Am looking forward to following your story! Good luck in your exam results!
katy (143 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh! i was just watching the program on channel four & i really wanted to write to you. My brother has Aspergers aswell. He was diagnosed when he was 17 and he is now nearly 21. I think you are a real insparation. Not many people know about Aspergers, so it's nice to see someone talk about it. I hope your exams are going well :) hope to hear from you soon x
Emma (143 days ago) Report Comment
Hi, I was jus wanting to know how your exams went? What were the results?
I'm watching the program on TV and right now you're just moving into St Andrews. :)
Dominique (143 days ago) Report Comment
hi m8 my name is scot i have only just started to watch year dot but i feal for u m8 i no how hard it is to make friends and to trust people coz i have had that proplem as well but i am joinin the navy to do something new and overcome my fears i hope everythink goes well for u and if u put your mind to it u can do anythink i hope u atchive everythink you want good luck my friend
scot lee burnaap (143 days ago) Report Comment
I am glad you enjoied the talk - i always worry whether people enjoy them. Thankyou also for your comment, i should get my exam results in about a week so so fingers crossed!
Josh
Josh (156 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh
I was at the course that you spoke at yesterday and i thought i'd check out this website to see what its all about. It was very inspiring hearing what you have overcome to get where you are today. I hope that you get the exam results you are hoping for and go on to achieve your dreams...i have every faith you will.
samantha crosse (156 days ago) Report Comment
I just came across it! Was having a search for the documentary they said was being filmed in freshers week when we had the coffee shop drinks reception. I'm sure your results will turn out alright. Mine went O I think! I hope! Home now. If I see you around in semester 2 I'll say hi!
Steve (165 days ago) Report Comment
Josh
Josh (168 days ago) Report Comment
Hey there! I am also in New Hall. You seem to be doing brilliantly! Hope your exams have been going well this week!
Steve (168 days ago) Report Comment
Josh (172 days ago) Report Comment
Josh (172 days ago) Report Comment
Hi Josh! You are really clever and work so hard. You need to have confidence in yourself and in the preparation that you're doing for your exams. From experience, being too stressed does not help. Stay calm and don't over-revise. You can't learn everything!
Lauren G (176 days ago) Report Comment