My academic and vocational interests in early childhood development predated the knowledge of my cousin's condition, but my involvement in his life since his diagnosis has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, already. While all childhood ailments and learning disabilities are equally deserving of attention and efforts to help children overcome their challenges, one aspect of autism in particular strikes me very hard. Specifically, my cousin [insert name] is a loving, intelligent child with potential to achieve a productive life. His intelligence is apparent in many ways, which makes his disability especially heartbreaking to me.
Whereas many learning disabilities limit a child's intellectual potential directly, the frustration of autism is precisely that it coexists with high intelligence so frequently.
The fact that autism prevents a child from applying his or her innate intelligence to the educational environment for the benefit of the child makes it especially important to help autistic children overcome their disabilities to whatever extent possible through targeted intervention techniques.
Obviously, that sentiment is not to diminish or in any way discount the corresponding importance of...
But to be perfectly honest, the combination of this particular element of autism with the admitted relevance to my family generates a motivation on my part to devote my educational and professional life to helping autistic children.
With respect to that sentiment, I am thankful that my previous academic course of study has already prepared me to continue those efforts in the very direction in which I feel more committed than ever, by virtue of my experiences helping [insert name] overcome the daunting challenges of his autism. Likewise, I am equally grateful that my prior vocational and recreational pursuits have been devoted to the realm of childhood development for at least two reasons. First, I am confident that the skills and practical experience that I have already developed are conducive to success in my chosen field; second, I know that my interest in the field of childhood development and special education are genuine and long-term and not just a temporary focus. If I am so fortunate as to be admitted to the University of La Verne, I hope to realize my ultimate goal of helping learning and behaviorally challenged children just like [insert name].
