Is it safe for someone with Asperger's Syndrome to be a cook?

Question

I am a senior going to Texas State University in San Marcos. I have a mild form of autism known as Asperger's Disorder. Many of you may not have ever heard of it because it didn't make its way out into the medical field until 1994. Anyway, I've had to bite the bullet and do lots of lousy jobs in order to support myself while I'm going to school. I just got a job offer as a dishwasher/bus boy at an Italian restaurant and another job offer as a cook at Outback Steakhouse. I think it would be in my best interest to learn how to cook, but I'm having second thoughts about that job. I'm wondering if it'll be a death trap for me just like working as a cashier. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Answer 1

The position as a cook is a good starting point for someone with Asperger's (I'm an Aspie: see section 21, at http://www.ezy-build.net.nz/~shaneris for useful advice, and weblinks).

I wouldn't stop there, though, but do a night/part time course to become a certified chef, but you will need to have a basic level of social skills: these you can learn, as well. Then, with experience, and qualifications, the world is your oyster.

I'd tend to be wary of telling my employer my plans, as some will want to keep you, and put obstacles in your way, so I wouldn't tell ANYONE THERE, until I had accomplished what I set out to do. If asked, just say you like to relax in your free time, watching Sci Fi, playing games, or whatever, and see a movie, or concert sometimes: have a convincing story that will satisfy curious people.

Answer 2

I think it would be a great job for you as a cook considering Asperger kids are generally good with math and repetitive activities that cooking would bring (sorry that sounds so stereotypical). I wouldn't look at it as a death trap at all if it is something you are interested in. I would look at it as something that would help you express your talents. Go for it!

Answer 3

It depends on what your quirks are ;)

if you do not like certain textures or smells, or if being rushed, and criticized will make you upset, then a cook is not the job for you. But if you can stand it for a while you could do it until you find something you like better. You sound like a bright young person and you seem to be doing well despite your disorder, but other people with Asperger's lead relatively normal lives and so you should do whatever you want, but if the job is a bad fit you could always find another to do.

Think about how it would be to be a cook. How will you react when it is dinner time and the waitresses are rushing you, or they say the patrons are displeased? How will you react about criticism from your boss? Will you be able to perform to the standards of the restaurant, or deal with it if you cant? Go through all the scenarios in your head.

Here in MI we cant afford to be picky about the jobs we can get, so if you have that sort of luxury where you live that you could find another job then go for it. Not to be mean, just stating that this is the situation i am faced with.  

Answer 4

Hey! I have Aspergers, and I can't see any reason why someone wouldn't be able to cook. The only problems I can see - with both of these jobs - are pressure and sensory issues - are you able to work under pressure? And can you handle any potential sensory issues - weird textures, smells, sounds? If you can get around these, they should be fine - cooking is very methodical, you follow a nice list of instructions, so you could be very good at it!