Graduation Tales | Ross’ degree brings him out of his shell

The International Convention Centre Wales in Newport has once again seen thousands of our graduates cross the stage in their cap and gown. To celebrate, we are sharing the stories of some of our inspirational students.

Ross Mattinson is graduating this week from University of South Wales (USW) having overcome social and academic challenges presented by his autism.

Based at Carlisle United Football Club, Ross completed the degree in BA (Hons) Community Football Coaching and Administration, whilst also attending residentials at USW.

On his first residential, Ross took his dad, Craig, along with him for support but after that he felt confident to go alone. He said: “The residentials at USW changed my life.

“I made so many friends on the course. They really accepted me for who I am, and they gave me so much confidence that I even got up and sang karaoke on a night out.

“During that time, I realised that I can have independence and freedom, I can make friends, and I don’t have to be held back.”

To complete his coursework, Ross had to learn new life skills but also about the importance of asking for help. As part of his autism, he can get tired and risks burning out, so he puts structures in place to avoid becoming overwhelmed and anxious.

Craig Mattinson said: “Ross' success is a result of his commitment. It is an incredible achievement, and we are so proud of him.

“We are also so grateful for the support offered to us along the way. For example, autistic people can often take instructions literally so if Ross misunderstood an assignment, it would just take is one phone call and one of the lecturers would put him on the right track.

“The people at USW are the salt of the earth.”

_{Graduate Ross Mattinson by the big red dragon outside Newport's ICC}

Ross said: “One of my counsellors said to me ‘If it gets too much, you must stop. Because when you stop and take a break, you will get more done.’ That was amazing advice that I will never forget. If I didn’t take that advice, I would work all day every day. I would put everything into work and then I would end up exhausted.”

Now that his studies are complete, Ross plans to continue with his football refereeing and coaching neurodiverse people.

“The degree has really given Ross the foundation to do what he is good at. However, I have also told him he needs to take a well-earned break so we will be going on holiday. This past year has been the toughest time in all of his education. He worked so hard and overcame so many hurdles,” said Craig.

“It is comforting to know that society is progressing, in terms of, accepting and making adaptations for neurodiverse people. They are getting the respect that they deserve, and it is great to see.

“Both Ross and I would be happy to talk to anyone with autism who is considering going to university.”

When Ross walks across the stage at graduation it will be a proud moment for himself and all his family and friends who have supported him.

Ross said: “Graduating means everything to me. There were times when I was really struggling, and I thought I wouldn’t make it this far. I cannot wait to celebrate our achievements with my classmates and lecturers.

“Autism is not a disability. Autism is a different ability.”