I long suspected I'm on the autistic spectrum.* I'm 43, and when
   I learned about Autism at 14 yrs old,* it was still the extreme
   variety.* They hadn't expanded it yet.* [not until the early
   90s] My 10th grade Science teacher back in 1988 suggested I
   pursue Theoretical Physics, as I had written a great paper on
   Black Holes which, he said had "unique conceptualizations of
   Theoretical Physics" in it.* Hawking hadn't published his book
   yet 'til a few months later. (brief history of time) I was
   annoyed when he did 'cause my 10 page high school paper was
   better and I didn't like his ideas about Time. Anyway, didn't
   pursue it as a life-course, but I've always pursued it as an
   "interest" and try to stay on top of it.* I've never lost my
   love for theoretical physics and hope you can get in the field -
   and even if you don't, it's not a problem; whether you make
   money at it, or do it on the side, it's just as satisfying.