I’m 19 and currently facing a tough financial situation that has me really worried about my future. I was diagnosed with autism two years ago, and while it’s not severe, it definitely presents challenges in my daily life. I had high expectations for my GCSEs, but due to personal issues, I ended up with much lower grades than predicted. After that, I tried to continue my education in 6th form, but I was kicked out for simply asking for help with an assignment. I then went to a regular college where I managed to get a Level 3 extended diploma in creative processes, but it was a struggle. Photography has always been my passion since childhood, and I even attempted to start a photography business during college. I did a few weddings and built a decent portfolio, but it wasn’t enough to sustain me financially. After leaving college, my mom insisted I get a job, so I took a night shift factory position. It was incredibly boring and the environment was toxic, which led me to leave for a part-time factory job that turned out to be even worse. I was overworked and injured myself twice in just two weeks, so I quit and have been unemployed for over a month now. Currently, I’m relying on £400 PIP, which my mom takes for rent, leaving me with very little to cover my expenses. My car tax and insurance are due soon, and I’m in a dire financial situation with debts piling up. I have an interview coming up for an assistant photographer position at a local fashion store, which I feel is a great fit for my skills and experience. I really hope to nail this interview because it could change my life. However, I’m also scared since I had a similar opportunity last year that didn’t pan out despite my qualifications and a strong portfolio. I struggle with a sleep disorder that makes early mornings extremely difficult, and I’m worried about whether I can keep a job that requires me to wake up early. I don’t want my autism or sleep issues to define me, but they do make things complicated. My mom is struggling financially as well, and while I love her, I feel trapped living at home. I want to move out, but without a job, that seems impossible. I’ve always been determined and had big dreams, but this past year has been incredibly disheartening. I’m trying to stay hopeful and prepare for my interview, but I’m feeling really stuck. I just want to find a way to work and not give up on my dreams of being a photographer.