BOSSIER PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS) –Oliver Love Jr. once struggled in the classroom, but today he’s celebrating an achievement that seemed impossible just years ago.
“To all the people who got disabilities or the same one I got, it’s okay,” Love said. Just learn to love yourself. You ain’t the problem, it’s not you.”
The young man, who has autism, recently graduated from Bossier Parish Community College with an associate degree in general studies with a minor in art. But his journey to the stage wasn’t easy.
“Autism is his superpower,” Oliver declared, refusing to let his disability define his limits.
Instead of letting his challenges conquer him, Oliver conquered them. He went from failing classes and doubting whether he was college material to walking across the graduation stage.
“I am very proud to be the first one out of my family to graduate,” Love said.
Oliver Love Jr., a cavalier care center assistant, found support at the Cavalier Care Center, the student support center where he volunteered for years.
Sandra Roberson, director of the Cavalier Care Center at Bossier Parish Community College, watched his transformation firsthand.
“He kept doing, kept learning, kept growing. Since he’s been here, he’s grown tremendously,” Roberson said. He went from being an introvert to an extrovert. Everyone knows Oliver on campus.”
Oliver’s determination not only helped him succeed academically but also inspired his peers. He created a popular anime club and had his artwork published in the school’s Savoir Faire magazine.
“I’m very proud, because both of my parents, they didn’t go to college, but they want me to do better, and see more,” said Love. I feel like if I succeeded and graduated the first in my family, other people can do it too.”