There is still a world to discover behind conditions such as autism: many people hold stereotypes and
prejudices, unaware that it is not a disease, but a series of disorders that can primarily concerned with
language and communication. Young Ryan Lowry, 19, autistic, manages to communicate well and has
decided to break the clichés and present himself in the world of work in a frank and sincere way. The
young man made a somewhat peculiar proposition to potential employers, posting a handwritten letter
on LinkedIn asking recruiters to give him a chance. «Dear future employer, My name is Ryan Lowry, I am
19 years old, I live in Leesburg, Virginia, and I have autism,” the letter read. «I also have a unique sense
of humor, I’m good at math, very good with technology and a very fast learner. I’m interested in a job in
animation or the computer industry.»
«I realize that someone like you will have to take a risk with me, because I don’t learn like normal
people. I would need a mentor to teach me, but I learn quickly, as soon as ‘it’s explained to me, I
understand everything. I promise you that if you hire me and teach me, you will be happy to see me
every day, I will do what you tell me to do and I will work hard. I look forward to hearing from you, thank
you. Best regards, Ryan Lowry,» the young man concluded. Ryan took a photo of the letter and shared it
on LinkedIn, the social network specializing in job search. The post was very successful: it received
thousands of comments and reactions, including a few job offers. Today, Ryan is spoiled for choice
among the various companies that have contacted him.
Right now, he seems enthralled by an offer from the company Exceptional Minds for a three-year
program to teach animation to people with autism. “Ryan is excited about his next job and is preparing
his resume and portfolio. I never thought this would happen after writing a letter,” his mom, Tracy
Lowry, commented: “I am overwhelmed with joy for Ryan. I’m so proud of him: he broke stereotypes
and made his way into the workplace, also opening the eyes of many companies, who will now be more
inclined to hire people with autism without too many prejudices» .