Discover the resilience that shines through adversity as Anthony, a graduate student, joins us. Anthony brings us on a journey marked by undiagnosed autism, schizoaffective disorder, and a battle with mental health that led to homelessness. His early love for science and technology, sparked by 'Star Trek' and nurtured in the solace of gaming and online communities, provided a beacon of hope in his darkest times.

Our heart-to-heart navigates the intricate corridors of academic pressure, substance abuse, and the quest for self-esteem amid the competitive halls of Harvard. Anthony's candid reflections on alcoholism, recognizing the intertwined nature of mental health and addiction, and the subsequent fall into mental illness lay bare the stark realities faced by many but spoken of by few. It's a tale of exceptional academic achievement shadowed by personal struggles, highlighting the need for greater awareness and inclusion in both educational and professional landscapes.

Rounding out our conversation, Anthony shares his path to recovery and growth, emphasizing the role of family support, treatment, and the grounding effect of meditation. While addressing the societal impacts of his experiences, he underscores the importance of participating in student activities and the wider college community. Anthony's narrative stands as a testament to his dedication to science and the unyielding human spirit.

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠hello@squarepegspodcast.com⁠ or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

00:00 Navigating Adversity and Pursuing Science

14:35 Navigating Student Activities and Bullying

24:40 Alcoholism's Impact on Mental Health

34:58 Challenges of Harvard and Self-Esteem

41:30 Mental Illness and Homelessness Journey

55:40 Recovery and Growth

01:05:15 Overcoming Homelessness and Mental Health

01:09:52 Maximizing College Experience Through Student Involvement