A point about names: Many people disagree

Some things people argue about:

• People first language: pro or against
• Is HSP real or just female-coded autism.
• Neurodivergent or Allistic?

Another problem is the potential for terms like "disorder" or "condition" to carry negative connotations, leading many neurodivergent individuals to prefer language that emphasizes their differences as a natural variation in brain function, rather than a pathology; this is why terms like "neurodivergent" and "neurodiversity" are preferred by many, as they focus on the diversity of brain patterns rather than a deficit.

Design your career with your unique self in mind.

Know thyself. Use design thinking and analyze data to understand yourself and build systems to support your needs.

• What are your challenges?
• What are your assets?

Advocate for Reasonable Accommodations: If you require specific accommodations to perform your best, communicate your needs to your coach.

• Shy about self-identification? Put it in your intro email.
• Self-advocacy is key for adult education.
• Decide whether or not you need to disclose WHY you need an accomodation.

Leverage Your Unique Perspective: Use your unique way of processing information to approach challenges from different angles.

• How do you think? How do you work best?

Networking and Mentorship: Build a strong professional network in the tech community.

• Seek out mentors who can offer guidance, share their experiences, and provide valuable insights. Are you utilizing the seed network at the school provides?

Master Time Management: Develop effective time management strategies to help you stay organized, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks.

• What is your challenge? Organization? Recall? Deadlines? Prioritizing? Strategize with your career coach.

Communication Skills: Clear communication is essential for collaborating with colleagues, sharing ideas, and presenting your work. Even developers should develop this skill.

• How do you communicate best?
• How do you take feedback best? Constructive criticism can help you refine your skills and improve your performance.

Emotional Regulation & Self-Care for Resilience: Regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress-reduction techniques can enhance your overall performance.

• For my fellows with HSP or social anxiety, this is crucial. Understand what soothes you and what triggers you.
• Understand that challenges may arise, but developing resilience will help you navigate setbacks and maintain a positive attitude.