I decided to unmask and be open about my diagnosis… and now my art school and professors are being ablest and clearly doubting my abilities.

For reference, my school doesn’t admit everyone into the final year. I was told throughout the year (when they didn’t know about my diagnosis) that I was a shoo-in.

Recently they requested a meeting with me about an unrelated subject, I was confused so I inquired further and asked my main advisor/professor about it. It was revealed that their motive was to talk about my diagnosis.

“We need to discuss the rigors and realities of the program and how you plan to manage your sensory needs that have been revealed through your diagnosis.” They’ve never had any concerns regarding my progress in the program until now.

They literally requested a meeting under false pretenses! They could have said “we have some questions about your diagnosis, are you open to a conversation?” But no… ask for an unrelated meeting? I was going to walk into this meeting ready to talk about the other subject, and be blind sided by needing to prove how I plan to “manage my needs.” The week they are doing cuts to the class while we’re getting ready for finals and a public presentation. I’ve been so stressed.

There’s never been any concern surrounding my mental health, I’ve never been asked to take part in a meeting. I had struggles this year and was praised for my resiliency and determination… BEFORE I revealed my diagnosis. Now there’s a concern apparently. My performance hasn’t changed. I’ve actually improved this year even with the difficulties I’ve faced (unrelated to autism, I broke a bone). They say “we want the best for you of course! We want to help you decide if staying is right choice for you!” When I keep telling them I want to stay. I can’t tell if they’re pushing me out or regret accepting me.

Previously to this, I asked to be excused from 2 meetings. They were going to take place during our lunch break and I need my 30 minutes to de compress as I’m experiencing a lot of sensory overload and want to take care of my needs better. I offered to check in and get the notes from another student. I thought it could be a reasonable accommodation. The advisor was visibly angry, I’m talking in literal tears, and told me I’m not a team player and that what I’m asking for is unfair… “it’s my job to keep everyone happy. Your actions are making the group upset, this is hard for me too!” I wish I was exaggerating, this is almost a direct quote. She then demanded I be “transparent” and tell the group about “my condition.” I believe this is what sparked the request for the meeting…

They say it in a whisper tone “your condition” when referencing autism…

I’m so confused and upset, please share your thoughts ):