Vista Graduation Blog - Meet Simon

Vista Graduation Blog - Meet Simon

For this blog series, we are thrilled to introduce you to some Vista students who have reached a significant milestone this year...our Vista 2021 graduating class!

We hope you enjoy!

For our final 2021 Vista graduate, we would like to introduce you to Simon Watson. Simon is from Heights Town, NJ, and started at Vista in 2018. He currently lives in the Discover transition condominiums to prepare for living independently in the greater shoreline community after graduating. Simon spoke with us about his Vista journey thus far. 

Simon Watson, Class of 2021

What are you known for at Vista?

I’m known for being quiet and prefer to hang out in small groups. Also, I really like bouncing a ball to release energy. Harold at Ventures Business Services has described me as hard-working.

Simon standing with his MedMinder, which has helped him develop his medication independence

What are some of the goals you worked towards while in Vista’s Discover Program and what are you still working on?

I wanted to become more independent with taking my medications. I use a MedMinder that stores the medications and reminds me when it’s time to take them.

I also wanted to have paid employment. I’m doing an internship in medical materials handling at Ventures right now. I’m also training at Bare Necessities and will keep doing that until graduation. I enjoy both workplaces because they are quiet.

Simon cultivating his vocational skills with his job coach at Bare Necessities, Inc.

What are some of your proudest achievements while at Vista?

Developing my medication independence and getting my internship were big accomplishments for me.

I’m able to travel independently by train, although I haven't done this much this year because of the pandemic.

Moving into the transition condominiums was a big achievement. I was sharing a room with Daniel, who is also graduating this year, and now I have my own room. I’m comfortable when I go grocery shopping, I eat less junk food now, and I’m working on watching my budget.

What are you looking forward to after graduation?

I’m looking forward to having my own place and getting a paid job that I can stay at for a few years.

Simon with his Program Counselor, Will, preparing for the graduation photo shoot

What are some of your hobbies and interests?

Mainly video games, especially Nintendo. At Vista, my friend Nick and I like to talk and play video games together. I also like to surf the web for anime.

Bonus question: What is your favorite food?

Asian noodles, with Italian noodles as a close second.

We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about our five graduates and will be there to cheer them on at Vista’s 2021 Graduation Ceremony on August 20 at 1:00 PM!

To register and attend our 2021 Graduation Ceremony, click here!