Finding Clarity: Emily Slaughter’s Journey at Hardin-Simmons University

For most of her life, Emily Slaughter knew she experienced the world differently. She just didn’t know why. It wasn’t until she was 19, a freshman in college, that Emily began to find answers.

“I was always trying to figure out what was wrong,” she said. “Why am I so different from everyone else?”

After years of navigating depression, sensory challenges, and social confusion, a conversation with a classmate and deeper research led her to a realization that she is autistic.

And instead of fear, what she felt most was relief.

“It was like a weight lifted,” she said. “I finally understood myself.”

Looking back, Emily can now make sense of moments that once felt confusing. Sensitivity to noise, food, and clothing. Difficulty reading social cues. Feeling overwhelmed in new environments.

“I just felt like something was off,” she said. “I didn’t understand why things were harder for me.”

For years, she learned to adapt by masking, trying to fit expectations, and keeping up with those around her.

That effort, she said, can be exhausting.

“I am always thinking, ‘Am I making eye contact? Am I saying the right thing?’ It drains you.”

“I finally understood myself.”

Today at Hardin-Simmons University, Emily is not just navigating college. She is growing in confidence and finding her place in a community that supports her well.

While there are still challenges, including sensory overload and fatigue, Emily has found support through understanding professors, accommodations through the disability center, and friendships that help her navigate day-to-day life.

Emily is open about her story not for herself, but to help others who may feel the same confusion she once did.

“Not being aware of my autism during my childhood made me feel like something was wrong with me and that I was a mistake,” she said. “I share my story to advocate for autism awareness and acceptance, and for anyone else who has felt that way.”

With that support, she has learned how to better manage her time, energy, and commitments in a way that allows her to succeed.

That growth has shaped more than her day-to-day life. It has helped her discover what she is truly passionate about.

After changing majors and exploring different paths, Emily realized she thrives in creative spaces.

“My brain is very creative,” she said. “I needed to find something that fits that. I switched majors multiple times and struggled to find my place. Being a part of The College of Arts and Media, joining the strategic communication program, and minoring in writing shows me I’m getting closer to discovering God’s goal and gifts he wants me to use in this life.”

Her journey has also deepened her faith in a personal way.

Rather than trying to fit into a single expectation, Emily has found meaningful ways to connect with God that reflect who she is.

“Not everyone’s relationship with God looks the same, and that’s okay. Having sensory issues, a traditional church service with loud worship music drains me completely. I have learned to see God when I am in nature with his creation”, she said.

Her story is a reminder that understanding yourself can change everything. With the right support, students like Emily are not just navigating college. They are thriving.

Emily also hopes her story can be a starting point for others who may have questions or want to learn more.

“If you have any questions regarding my personal journey or autism, I love sharing my story, so don’t hesitate to reach out,” she said. “I would love to talk to you about it.”

At its core, Emily’s journey is one of clarity, growth, and purpose.

In a place where she feels supported and known, Emily continues to grow in confidence and discover who she is and where she is called to go.

“I finally feel like I am understanding myself,” she said.

As we recognize Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, we’re continuing that conversation at HSU on June 18. Educators, students, families, and community members are invited to join Making Space for All Learners: Thriving Together in Autism-Inclusive Classrooms, featuring guest speaker Emily Kircher-Morris. RSVP link coming soon.