Fall River, Berkshire – Justice Martins, 21 who has Asperger’s Syndrome, will receive later this month his degree in Baking and Pastry from Bristol Community College.
When he arrived on campus in the fall of 2011, he said he lacked confidence and social skills.
“Don’t ever give up on yourself and always follow your heart,”
Justice gives credit to both the Disability Service within the college and Chef Gloria Cabral, associate professor of Baking and Pastry Arts, for building his confidence and giving constant encouragement.
Susan Boissoneault, Dean, Office of Disability Services, says there are 988 students with disabilities enrolled at the college this semester who are actively working with the office.
The most commonly used services include
‘preparation of student semester accommodation plans, individual progress meetings with learning specialists, new and prospective student intake interviews, specialized testing, and ongoing academic advisement.’
Boissoneault also adds that many disabled students improve their social skills, which are crucial for successful employment.
Chef Cabral says in the article:
“He knows what his disability is and he knows what he needs to succeed,”
Chef Cabral also adds that the baking and pastry arts program requires a lot of work and in doing so prepares students to work in a fast-paced industry.
The original article by Brian J. Lowney on the Berkshire Eagle website can be read here