Frightened. That’s one of the words that comes closest to describing how I felt before starting my internship at Rix Inclusive Research. I was about to walk into a world I knew nothing about, with new faces, unfamiliar challenges, and a chance to work alongside people from all walks of life. The weight of the unknown pressed down on me. But beneath that fear was a spark of excitement, an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to make a difference. That mix of anxiety and hope marked the start of a journey that would change how I see myself and the world around me.
My name is Alexis Fowler, and I am a rising senior at Rutgers University pursuing a career in Medical Speech-Language Pathology. When I was first introduced to the opportunity to intern at RIX, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Rix Inclusive Research is a research institute based at the University of East London, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with learning disabilities through innovative digital and multimedia technologies. From my very first day, I found myself contributing to that mission in meaningful ways.
During my time at RIX, I’ve had the opportunity to attend thought-provoking conferences, contribute to meaningful research studies, and work alongside professionals who are deeply committed to inclusive communication. Out of all the experiences I’ve had, the most exciting and impactful has been collaborating with a former Speech and Language Therapist on a case study involving a young girl with autism. Although she is hearing, she was introduced to sign language at an early age, which has become a primary mode of communication for her. Being part of this project gave me firsthand insight into how alternative communication methods can support language development and empower individuals with unique needs.
Additionally, one of the most eye-opening aspects of my internship was working with autistic people as co-researchers. At RIX, inclusivity isn’t just a concept, it’s a practice. People with lived experience are not only valued but also actively involved in shaping the research. Being in a space where autistic individuals could confidently share their ideas, contribute to decision-making, and take ownership of their narratives showed me the true meaning of inclusive research. It reminded me that inclusivity goes beyond access; it’s about creating environments where everyone feels heard, respected, and empowered.
Because of RIX, I found myself in spaces I had never been before, places where inclusion wasn’t just a goal but a lived reality. I witnessed things that had never crossed my mind, and it pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. One of the most meaningful aspects of my internship was visiting the John F. Kennedy Special School, which serves children and young adults with complex needs. Seeing how the school supports these students helped me understand what full inclusion looks like when it is not just talked about but lived out every day. This experience caused me to reflect on how inclusion is practised in my own community and prompted me to consider the role I want to play in creating spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued.
What made this experience truly unforgettable was the warmth, encouragement, and intentional support I received from the RIX team. From the moment I arrived, I was met with kindness and genuine interest in who I was, what I hoped to learn, and how I could contribute. It never felt like I was ‘just an intern’. I was invited into conversations that mattered, given responsibilities that challenged me, and encouraged to share my thoughts, even when I was unsure. The team’s openness created a space where questions were welcomed, ideas were valued, and growth was constant. Whether it was during check-in meetings, collaborative workshops, or even casual moments in the office, the RIX staff continuously made an effort to make sure I felt seen and supported. Working alongside such a thoughtful and passionate group of people taught me that inclusive work environments are not just possible, they’re powerful. That sense of trust, collaboration, and shared purpose is something I will carry with me far beyond this internship.
Looking back, what once felt frightening has turned into one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of my academic journey. My time at Rix Inclusive Research not only deepened my understanding of inclusive practices and neurodiversity but also strengthened my passion for becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist who centres empathy, collaboration, and accessibility in all that I do. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a dedicated and diverse team, and I leave this internship with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer vision of the kind of impact I hope to make in the field.
Alexis Fowler, CAPA Intern