Most people are scared of difference or they feel threatened by it. Well... most scare the hell out of me, too!

My place is in research. It is perfect for my introverted disposition and my never ending curiosity. Anyway, science is my forte. I always knew this, but the desire to conform lead me to other jobs and junior colleges. None of it worked. Finally, I had to settle on me and what I really wanted.

Self esteem will come. I know it sounds generic and superficial, but it will. The coach operator training will help. You seem to have incorporated some of your special interests (I prefer, areas of expertise), such as geography and passenger coaches into finding your place. It is important for someone with AS to do that. I did it. Almost everyone, I know with AS has done this and are successful.