Power Point slides from my first professional speaking engagement at the Penn Autism Network Conference 3/16/07

1. HOW TO BE SELF SUFFICIENT WITH HIGH FUNCTIONING AUTISM Jason Zervoudakes Self Advocate

2. MAKING THE DECISION TO BE SELF SUFFICIENT We Make Changes When We Are Dissatisfied With Our Current Situation There Is No Road Map In Life

3. HOW TO BE SELF SUFFICIENT WITH HIGH FUNCTIONING AUTISM Jason Zervoudakes Self Advocate

5. NETWORKING WHO YOU KNOW IS IMPORTANT Networking can occur anytime anyplace anywhere

6. FACE TO FACE NETWORKING Face to Face is most effective A “Natural Smile” will help you meet people “ How, What & Why” questions are great for small talk Talk about general topics such as the weather

11. SELL YOURSELF Think of yourself as a product Emphasize your strengths Minimize or don’t mention your weakness PEOPLE WANT TO KNOW What job you want What skills you have How you can benefit them

12. BE PERSISTENT NEVER GIVE UP! It takes hard work, desire and dedication to achieve your goals

14. TO DISCLOSE OR NOT TO DISCLOSE-THAT IS THE QUESTION Disclose too early you may not get the job Disclose too late you may not hold on to the job

17. HOW TO BE SELF SUFFICIENT WITH HIGH FUNCTIONING AUTISM Jason Zervoudakes Self Advocate

18. MULTITASKING WHICH IS BETTER? ONE TASK OR THREE AT A TIME? ONE TASK PHONE LAUNDRY COOKING DINNER

19. STARTING NEW PROJECTS Until 1974 Babe Ruth hit more home runs than anyone in MLB history Babe Ruth struck out more times than anyone in MLB history HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU NEVER TRY?

21. COME TO TERMS WITH YOUR LATE DIAGNOSIS Go through list of AS characteristics Pick 20 that are most troubling Work with your professional to improve on them

22. HOW TO BE SELF SUFFICIENT WITH HIGH FUNCTIONING AUTISM Jason Zervoudakes Self Advocate

23. YOUR GOAL IS TO BE SELF SUFFICIENT NEVER LOSE SIGHT OF THE GOAL THINK OF SELF SUFFICIENCY AS YOUR BUSINESS!