Mega Doctor News
By Selene Rodriguez
Growing up autistic, South Texas College Dual Credit Alumnus Lion Aguillon, learned that the right support can make all the difference.
Now, combining his passion for computer science, creativity and advocacy, he is making a lasting impact through his “Crash Course on Learning C++ (Neurodivergent Version)” summer camp at STC.
“I always asked myself, ‘What would I have wanted as a student?’ That’s how I built this course,” he explained. “I’m autistic, so I teach in a way that makes sense for people like me, more choices, more creativity and more understanding.”
While open to all students, the class is thoughtfully adapted for neurodivergent learners using the flexible, student-centered teaching approach Aguillon once wished he had.
Now in its final week, the camp encouraged participants to learn programming at their own pace and engage with the material in ways that suit their individual learning styles.
“Students are encouraged to be creative while learning how to code and use tools like colored pencils, crayons or markers if it helps them think or focus,” he added. “Different ways of learning are always welcome, that’s my whole approach.”
Throughout his educational journey, Aguillon has been open about being autistic and has consistently advocated for greater understanding and acceptance.
Growing up, he often faced challenges due to a lack of awareness or understanding, especially when it came to social cues and classroom behavior.
“I’ve had moments where I’d get distracted, like focusing on the zipper of my jacket, and teachers would get upset,” he shared. “I didn’t always pick up on social cues, and I was made fun of for things I didn’t know weren’t ‘okay’ to say or do. At one point, a classmate even told me they didn’t believe I was autistic. I think that comes from the stereotypes. People have a narrow idea of what autism looks like. That’s why I speak up. I want to break those stigmas and be a voice for others like me.”
Despite these challenges, and with the support of his family and educators, he graduated with an associate degree in Computer Science from STC in 2018 as a Dual Credit Programs student while attending Thelma R. Salinas T-STEM Early College High School in La Joya.
This achievement paved the way for him to later earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV).
“Back in high school, I originally went into robotics, but my older brother encouraged me to try computer science, and I loved it,” Aguillon said. “I guess there’s a stereotype that autistic people are into STEM, and in my case, it’s true. What can I say? I love it. Later, I started working as a tutor and that experience inspired me to teach, to create classes that are more flexible, creative and fun.”
STEM referring to the study of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
This year, he has served as a faculty member at both UTRGV and STC. By being open about his journey, he hopes to inspire students who may see themselves in his story.
“I tell students I’m autistic from day one. It feels safer that way because I get to be myself,” he said. “In this camp, I had my first autistic student, which was a huge milestone for me. Growing up, it wasn’t always easy to get the support I needed, sometimes people didn’t understand autism or simply didn’t know how to help. Now, as faculty, I have the opportunity to change that.”
One of the students who participated in the camp is Darian Garcia, a 22-year-old student in STC’s Cybersecurity program and a proud neurodivergent learner.
With a 3.9 GPA and a lifelong passion for computers, Garcia says Aguillon’s teaching style helped him expand his understanding of coding.
“I have always loved computers and through this camp I had the opportunity to expand my knowledge of C++ and learn new ways to approach coding,” he said. “Mr. Aguillon has been incredibly accommodating. He explains things in a simpler way, and when I couldn’t make it in person, I was always able to join online. He’s flexible, supportive and makes sure we never miss out.”
Inspired by Aguillon’s path, Garcia now hopes to follow in his footsteps.
“I look up to him. I want to keep studying and eventually get my bachelor’s and master’s degrees like he did,” said Garcia.
For Aguillon, his passion for supporting students stems from a quiet, but powerful moment in his own childhood, a small act of kindness that left a lasting impact.
“Many times, while growing up I felt like I had no friends,” he recalled. “One day in fifth grade, a classmate sat down with me just to understand how I was feeling. I don’t remember the full conversation, but I remember how much it mattered.”
He’s certain that gestures like these can ripple outward, making a meaningful difference in the lives of others and within his community. So, his advice to others is simple and hopeful: Seek help or seek people who care, because that can make all the difference.
“Don’t give up on searching for help, whether that’s disability services or finding the people who truly care,” he said. “Social situations can be scary, but you might find someone who understands. And once you do, everything can change.”
Information source: STC
