As a kid, Alex Smaniotto knew exactly what he wanted to be when he grew up: a doctor. Today, that dream is becoming a reality – as Alex recently graduated from the Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine and is on the path to becoming a neurologist.
Alex was diagnosed at the age of six with high-functioning autism. He started his journey with Y.A.L.E. School in the third grade when he transferred to our Northfield campus.
“I was a difficult kid,” Alex admits. “But Y.A.L.E. gave me the support, structure, and opportunity I needed to succeed.” With the help of dedicated staff, Alex found a place where he could thrive both academically and personally.
Alex attributes his behavior and academic success to the many Y.A.L.E. staff members who went above and beyond to support him. From Ms. Joan, who worked closely with him to improve his behavior, to his science teachers, Ms. April and Ms. Dara, who recognized his passion for science and nurtured it beyond the standard curriculum, Alex found a team that truly believed in him. He also credits Al Doyle, Northfield Campus Director, who often worked behind the scenes to arrange extra one-on-one time with teachers, giving Alex the opportunity to focus on SAT preparation and college readiness.
“At Y.A.L.E., we believe in giving students the tools to succeed on their own terms, and Alex is proof of what’s possible when you meet a student where they are,” Mr. Doyle explained.
Alex credits Y.A.L.E. for giving him the foundation and skills to pursue college and life beyond Y.A.L.E. with confidence. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if Y.A.L.E. School hadn’t been in my corner – helping me manage my behavior and keeping me intellectually challenged,” he says.
After graduating from Y.A.L.E., Alex spent the next four years at Stockton University, where he dedicated himself to his studies with the same determination that had guided him through his earlier years. While an undergrad, Alex, like every other aspiring doctor, was required to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to get into medical school. Alex passed with flying colors and received the highest MCAT test score ever by a Stockton student!
Alex decided to continue his medical education at Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his program in May 2025. Now, Alex is preparing for his residency, a four-year clinical training program, at Reading Hospital in Pennsylvania.
As he inches closer to his dream of becoming a neurologist, the connections are clear to Alex. He sees his chosen career path as a chance to better understand his own medical challenges while helping others with neurological differences recognize they can also follow their aspirations and pursue their own dreams – just as he did during his years at Y.A.L.E. School.
“My goal is to help kids who are like me, to show them what’s possible and help them realize their full potential,” he said.
Alex’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, support, and community. For the students walking the halls of Y.A.L.E. School today, Alex’s journey stands as living proof that with the right support system, dreams really can come true. And sometimes, those dreams don’t just change one life – they inspire others to believe in themselves too.