Autistic graduate praises University of Hertfordshire after gaining first class degree

Thomas Bromyard at the University of Hertfordshire Graduation ceremony. © Pete Stevens 2012 Â© Pete Stevens - CreativeEmpathy.com

A STUDENT said he feels like “a pioneer for autistic people” after overcoming his learning disabilities and gained a first class bachelor of Science degree.

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Thomas Bromyard, from WGC, graduated last week after gaining his degree in Games and Graphics Hardware Technology at the University of Hertfordshire.

Thomas, 21, who is a former pupil of Monks Walk School, suffers from high-functioning autism and had faced challenges during his education that most other people don’t.

These included writing assignments, understanding the Harvard-referencing process, grasping the public transport system, taking part in group work and completing theory-based projects.

Thomas, who is now seeking employment in the games and graphics industry, said: “While I received support for my disability at university, I feel as though I was a pioneer for autistic people there.

“I had problems structuring my assignments and struggled with social modules and essay-writing.

“However, the support system made sure all the lecturers knew I had autism, helped me manage my workloads and gave me just the help I needed to develop my independence.”

He added: “The university is special to me as both my parents met and fell in love there when it was a polytechnic, so it’s become a family tradition.”