Written by Lauren Smith, Director of Community Engagement, Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)
When I first started working at Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) as a young professional, I thought my biggest challenges would be learning about our clinical services, staying current with cutting-edge research, and understanding the wide range of needs for individuals with autism and their families. I was prepared to work hard and absorb as much as possible from the incredible expertise around me. What I did not expect was how much time at SARRC would shape me, not just as a professional, but as a person. Our mission-driven work has taught me to approach each interaction with intention, knowing that every connection contributes to a larger purpose. In my role, I have the privilege of building relationships throughout the community and securing the funding that supports our critical programs, services, and research. That work has taught me that growth in this field, much like growth early in a career, is rooted in connection: in listening intently, building trust, and finding meaning in every interaction.
1. Connection Begins with Listening
As a mom of a child with autism, I have learned that the most impactful thing you can do is listen, sometimes without expecting a verbal response. Over time, you become more aware of body language, facial expressions, and small shifts in energy that often communicate more than words ever could. That lesson has shaped not only how I show up as a parent, but also how I show up professionally, particularly in my role at SARRC. In my work building relationships in the community and supporting programs through securing funding and partnerships, I have learned that listening is the foundation of trust and connection. Those early in their careers often feel pressure to prove themselves, to respond quickly or demonstrate value right away, but true connection, whether with a team member, a client, a colleague, or a community partner, starts with presence. It is about pausing to truly listen before reacting, observing the room, and creating space for every voice to be heard.
2. Communication Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
My professional and personal experience at SARRC has taught me that communication happens in many forms, gestures, visuals, technology, or shared routines. As young professionals, we can sometimes fall into the trap of assuming our way of communicating is universal, that everyone prefers email over a phone call, or that contributing to a meeting means speaking the most. But the truth is, communication is personal and highly individualized. Learning to adapt, to meet people where they are, makes us not just better team members, but better leaders.
3. Patience Builds Trust
I can personally attest that progress for my daughter, as she receives autism services, requires consistency and persistence. We might spend weeks practicing a single skill, repeating routines, or reinforcing strategies, and then one day, it just clicks. Those milestones have taught me patience and helped me appreciate the quiet, steady growth that often goes unseen. The same is true in any early career journey. You might not see the results of your efforts immediately, but showing up consistently, with patience and trust in the process, builds confidence, resilience, and sets the foundation for long-term success.
4. Every Human Wants to Be Seen and Understood
If there’s one thing my time at SARRC and my own journey have shown me, it’s that everyone wants to feel seen, understood and valued. This insight is not specific to autism: it applies to every interaction. When we approach team members, supervisors, colleagues, and community partners with that mindset, we have a positive impact on workplace culture and the community. We create environments where people feel safe to share ideas, admit mistakes, and bring their full selves to the table.
5. Leading With Humanity Is a Strength
For those early in their careers, it is easy to get caught up in technical skills, numbers, and measurable results. While these things are important, what truly keeps teams strong and drives a mission forward is the ability to connect with people in an authentic way. Working in a nonprofit serving individuals with autism and their families has shown me that human connection is essential and at the heart of meaningful work.
In a world that celebrates speed, efficiency, and productivity, slowing down to create genuine connection can feel countercultural. But the most important lessons I have learned as a young professional at SARRC are about presence, empathy, and building trust. Whether you are supporting a team member, colleague, client, or community partner, connection does not come from what you do for someone, it comes from how you show up with them. Learning to pause, listen, and engage authentically not only strengthens relationships, but also sets the foundation for meaningful growth in your career.