At the end of the day, no matter what language you speak, no matter the color of your skin, your religion, your background, who you love...everyone should be educated, that’s how we evolve as a species.
Jane Meyrick, ’21, G’25, knew early on her brain processed information differently, often creating challenges, particularly in school.
“I didn’t speak until I was one, I didn’t speak full sentences until I was four. I had an IEP (Individualized Education Program) all throughout my schooling, starting in preschool,” Jane said.
As she struggled, Jane sometimes found herself the target of bullying from classmates. Her frustration grew.
“I knew something was different, but no one would explain it to me,” Jane said. “It’s almost as if I had a mark, or ink on my face...everyone was staring at me, but no one would tell me I had ink on my face.”
Finally, at the age of 26, she got an answer: Jane was autistic.
Now armed with the “why,” she wants to share her story to help other neurodivergent people. She will have her chance during Bridgewater State University’s graduate commencement ceremony on May 15, as Jane was selected to be student speaker.
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to share my message. I feel like this is my first step in being a leader,” she said.
Because of her speech patterns, throughout her life, people often interrupt Jane when she speaks.
“To be able to have this opportunity to share my message, to have everyone’s focused attention...I’m really excited to be an intelligent autistic woman on display, to show I’m educated and shut down every illogical argument (about autistic people),” she said.
Jane earned undergraduate degrees in earth science and secondary education in 2021. She will now have a master’s degree in higher education administration.
The double Bear plans on taking what she’s learned and using it to change legislation and policies, and to create a more holistic approach when it comes to education.
“Give me a glass hammer so I can smash the glass ceiling,” Jane said. “Being neurodivergent, I want to change people’s perspectives, mindsets and language surrounding our community.”
To further the cause, she also hopes to launch a podcast titled, “Universal Humanity,” to discuss current events, and advocate for those who struggle with finding their place in the world, emphasizing the importance of education.
“At the end of the day, no matter what language you speak, no matter the color of your skin, your religion, your background, who you love...everyone should be educated, that’s how we evolve as a species,” Jane said.
Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu