Educators
Autism in the Classroom: Making Education Accessible
Autistic STEM grad student Patrick Dwyer recommends families and autistic students take a self-guided campus tour. Video tour of UC Davis, packed with tips.
3 min read
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173 articles
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Educators
10 Tips: Improving College Outcomes for Autistic STEM Students
Looking for the top ten tips for improving college outcomes for autistic students? Here you go! Editorial Board Members Arianne Garcia, John Caldora, and Sara Sanders Gardner put together these tips for students…
3 min read
Students
Tips for Autistic Students: How to Read Academic STEM Articles
Patrick Dwyer explores the different times autistic students may be asked to read academic STEM articles. Depending on the goal, students can expect to dedicate different amounts of time and resources to the material.…
10 min read
Educators
STS @ SXSW EDU! Improving College Outcomes: Autistic STEM Students
STS is excited to present a 30-minute talk, "Improving College Outcomes: Autistic STEM Students," at this…
2 min read
Students
College Autism Program Spotlight: Ravens Scholars, U of Idaho
Welcome to the second installment of our series of interviews with professors or program directors who are actively welcoming autistic students into their STEM programs or lead autism-specific initiatives at the college…
8 min read
Students
First Robotics Teams: An Intro for Autistic Students
We often hear from people looking for participatory STEM opportunities for autistic students. In our quest to learn more about possible opportunities around STEM camps, teams, and related groups, we connected with…
6 min read
Families
Notes from the field: Inclusive college models & tools for autistic students who have intellectual disabilities
STS is proud of our work to support autistic students in the college transition, particularly in STEM fields. Much of our content is geared for students whose main challenges may be less about academics and more about…
13 min read
Families
Interview with Autistic Self-Advocate Haley Moss
I reached out to Haley Moss a few months ago about conducting an interview around autistic self-advocacy, and I was so pleased when she agreed to…
12 min read
Families
Autism & College Friendships: A Conversation
Alex Shankland is a close friend of mine from Tufts University. We met in freshman year. I told him I was autistic a few weeks later. We’ve been friends ever since. Justin Robbins: Can you…
5 min read
Students
Hackathons Can Be Great for Autistic STEM Students
If a classmate of yours invited you to a hackathon next Saturday, what would you picture your weekend looking like? Lots of people picture scenes from ‘Mr. Robot’ or War Games when they imagine what “hackers” look like…
7 min read
Students
Patrick Pontificates: On College, Autistic Students & Sleep
I’m afraid I don’t know the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything ([unless the answer is…
7 min read
Families
Autism & Employment: the Technology Consulting Industry
We know there are many different paths to a STEM career, and other STS contributors have written about [approaches to your time at…
8 min read
Educators
Neurodiversity Hub: Global Work on Autism, College & Jobs
Earlier this summer, a tweet from Andrew Eddy of Untapped in Australia caught my eye. I reached out to learn more about his organization and their…
8 min read
Educators
Intersectionality, Autism & STEM College Outcomes
Editorial Board Member Arianne Garcia considers the way various forms of discrimination can compound negative STEM college outcomes for autistic students in relation to race, gender, and sexuality. She begins by…
11 min read
Educators
On Inclusive Hiring: Diversity Consultant Sam Ellison, Part II
In Part Two of my interview with Boston-based diversity consultant Sam Ellison, we discuss how both upper management and general employees have responsibilities when creating institutional change. ([Read Part One…
6 min read
Students
Autism, STEM Interests, and Parent Support
Social language groups, sports, arts, and creative extracurricular activities are enriching and exciting for many young autistic students. At the same time, some parents will notice their student’s interest in STEM…
11 min read
Students
Studying College Biology: Learning as You Go, Part 2
In Part One of this post, I introduced several tips for studying college biology, including the concept of “learning as you go.” If you haven’t read Part One…
8 min read
Students
Becoming Visible: STEM Role Models & Mentors for Disabled Students
Guest contributor Helen Rottier shares her path to a STEM PhD program. Not having disabled STEM mentors or seeing them in the greater science community meant that Helen never considered a STEM path. Having visible STEM…
7 min read
Students
On Inclusive Hiring: Diversity Consultant Samuel Ellison
Contributor Katie Newton sits down with Boston-based diversity consultant Samuel Ellison for a candid and wide-ranging talk about workplace inclusion, including disability and autism hiring. Ellison builds on his own…
5 min read
Students
Patrick Pontificates: Against Perfectionism
An autistic STEM grad student on why perfectionism isn't something that students who have autism should aim for in their college studies.
3 min read
Students
STEM Jobs That Don't Require Four-Year Degrees
Rewarding STEM Jobs are available to autistic students without a 4-year degree. STEM career paths take many forms. Learn how to best pursue your interests.
6 min read
Students
Studying College Biology: How to Learn as You Go
Essential study skills for autistic STEM students. Learn how and why to "study as you go" and other important study skills.
6 min read
Students
Jobs & Work-study: Key for Autistic STEM Students
Autism and work-study jobs. If you're an autistic student, pursuing a work-study job can help you in the workforce transition.
3 min read
Students
Autism and Addressing Workforce Bullying
Autism and addressing workforce bullying. How to know if you're experiencing bullying or miscommunication, and what to do about both.
5 min read
Families
Autism & College: Build Your Social Confidence Levels
Building social confidence levels means being prepared and knowledgeable in a variety of common situations. Learn more here.
10 min read
Families
Q & A With Autism College Transition Consultant: On Privacy Laws
Understanding privacy laws in relation to autism and college student rights can help students and families prepare for the college transition.
1 min read
Students
Autism & Setting SMART Goals at College
Autism and setting SMART goals. Learn this method of organizing and achieving meaningful goals. Terrific self-advocacy skills for college.
7 min read
Students
Disclosing Your Autism to College Friends
Disclosing your autism to college friends can be a way to grow friendships and develop even better connections to people who share your interests.
5 min read
Educators
On Creating a STEM Familia: Dr. Lisette Torres
Dr. Lisette Torres on creating a STEM familia or family. Why a sense of connection can be important for STEM populations underrepresented in college.
5 min read
Students
College, Autism & STEM Careers: Participation, Barriers, and Solutions
Autism and STEM careers. An overview of participation, barriers, and solutions, with a particular focus on college students.
10 min read
Families
An Introduction for Autistic Students: the Social Dynamics of College and University Classrooms
Social dynamics of college classrooms for autistic students. STEM grad student Patrick Dwyer gives an overview of how college differs from high school.
9 min read
Students
Autism and Self-care for College Students
Self-care for autistic students is especially important during the college transition. Schedule self-care to feel good & improve performance in other areas.
8 min read
Families
Campus Tour for Autistic Students
Autistic STEM grad student Patrick Dwyer recommends families and autistic students take a self-guided campus tour. Video tour of UC Davis, packed with tips.
1 min read
Students
Managing Anxiety for Autistic STEM College Students
Managing anxiety for autistic students can play a big part in college success. Learn from STEM grad student Laura Gilmour about how to minimize anxiety.
6 min read
Families
Transition Programs: an Overview for Autistic Students Going to College
Contributor Chelsea Harris explores college transition programs for autistic students as well as the transition process, including different support models.
5 min read
Students
If and When to Disclose Your Autism in College
Should you disclose your autism in college? STEM graduate Justin Robbins shares the pros and cons based on his college experience.
5 min read
Students
Autistic @ College: 6 Tips for Learning Environments
Contributor Katie Matthews guides autistic students through considerations that will help them clarify their preferences for college learning environments.
8 min read
Families
Disability Services Offices (DSO) & Autism in College
Video interview. Patrick Dwyer and UC Davis Disability Specialist Dr. Joseph Spector discuss the role of Disability Services Offices on campuses.
1 min read
Educators
Exploring Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment: An Interview with College Student Jake Keene
Hear about one student's experience in an inclusive concurrent enrollment program, and what he's up to in college now.
9 min read
Families
Spectrum Q & A With College Transition Consultant Susan Woods: Declaring a Disability
Brief video. Declaring a disability in college? College transition expert Susan Woods introduces families to the basics in order to access accommodations.
1 min read
Families
College Student Housing: Answers for Autistic Students
Video overview of college student housing with STEM grad student Patrick Dwyer. Noise, room accommodations, issues with roommates, and more.
1 min read
Families
Autism and STEM: Career Considerations for Students
Sometimes we hear a lot about autism and STEM, and it can feel unthoughtful. Here, contributor Katie Matthews helps students clarify whether a STEM field might be a match for them, and which particular fields could be a good fit.
6 min read
Students
Tips for Autistic Students: Attending Academic and Scholarly Conferences
Worried about someone saying something rude or inappropriate about your research? STEM grad student Laura Gilmour shares key presentation and conference pointers.
1 min read
Students
A Guide for Autistic Students to Using Video Rehearsal for Presentations and Interviews
Check for filler words. Are you overly using “like” or “um?” While these are somewhat normalized in daily speaking and often increase during nervous moments, making note of your habits can help you be aware of what you might say and help decrease use of them.
7 min read
Students
Autistic Professional Spotlight: An Exchange With Anthropologist, Primatologist, and Ethologist Dawn Prince-Hughes
I think I see reality quite lyrically so it was the way that I see reality that helped me with the gorillas at first. I think that lyricism is present in most people on the spectrum. That's why when they interface with a world that's very hard and materialistic, they need rules that are unshakable and unchangeable, because their birth orientation is to be a part of everything
10 min read
Students
Autistic Professional Spotlight: Anthropologist, Primatologist, and Ethologist Dawn Prince-Hughes
Prince-Hughes completed regular coursework and assisted around the zoo. She was given the responsibility of monitoring a gorilla with a serious illness. Her work on that task was pivotal: the director of the zoo was so impressed that he sponsored a series of gorilla behavior research projects.
4 min read
Families
Community College Focus: Chuck Sekafetz, Electronics Department Chair at Chemeketa Community College
Autistic students do come through the CWE program in our department...We find that the student who has gone through CWE with an employer has an easier time transitioning to full time employment due to the created familiarity with the employer and/or coworkers.
7 min read
Families
Autistic Professional Profiles: Quality Assurance Specialist, Aerospace Engineering and Manufacturing Company
Hear from an autistic STEM employee about the college transition and how he's succeeding in the workforce.
8 min read
Educators
Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Supporting All STEM Learners
For many autistic and neurotypical students, college presents a depth of challenges, course material, and independence that they likely haven’t had much experience with before. UDL can support instruction and student growth.
6 min read
Educators
Rules About Technology in the Classroom: A Barrier for Students With Disabilities?
If we ban technology, we are hurting some of the most vulnerable students and infringing on their rights to access accommodations.
7 min read
Students
Establishing an Autism Peer Support Community
However, before you despair and conclude that facilitating a peer-support group is not for you, please remember that things usually sound more complicated written out on paper than they are in practice!
15 min read
Educators
Guest Post Three: Autistic Science Person Ira Kraemer on Self-care, Disclosure, and Positive Outcomes in College
This is the final part of a three-part series about being an autistic graduate student. In [part…
7 min read
Educators
Guest Post Two: Autistic Science Person Ira Kraemer on Challenges to STEM Education for Students Lacking a Diagnosis
I can't overstate this enough: the most important part of graduate school is finding nice people, having a kind, supportive mentor, and having peers who support each other.
5 min read
Educators
Autistic Science Person Ira Kraemer: Transitioning to Grad School & Adjusting to the New Environment
Transitioning to any sort of new school is like taking notes in class - messy. It also feels like everyone else is walking around with a navigation system while you're just fumbling about. Sometimes though, other people let you know that they don't have a GPS either!
5 min read
Families
Marshall University, College Program for Students Who Have Autism
Prospective students and families should visit the colleges and universities. Talk to the people who provide support, assess the culture and “feel” of the community, and find the best fit for the individual.
7 min read
Families
Scholarships, Grants & Loans for Students on the Spectrum
Additional scholarships include the Anne Ford and Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarships (two scholarships) and the Lisa Higgins Hussman Scholarship, 15 of which were awarded last year.
5 min read
Educators
On Mentorship, Lab Environments, and Job Applicant Disclosure: An Interview with Chemistry Professor Jen Heemstra
On one hand, disclosing too early could create bias that eliminates you from the competition. On the other hand, disclosing provides context that can help you have a more successful interaction with a future employer.
6 min read
Educators
Insights in STEM: Former Department Chair and Professor of Computer Science Margie Bleichman
Faculty, ask questions and seek to understand the accommodations process to help dispel misconceptions about unfair advantages for students receiving accommodations.
3 min read
Educators
Insights in STEM: Community College Administrator & Instructor Don Brady
Quick tips for instructors and students about supporting neurodivergent students in the college classroom.
2 min read
Families
"Get Ready, Do, Done" Model: Support Executive Functioning for Autistic Students
Speech and language pathologist Katie Matthews introduces students to “Get Ready, Do, Done” a useful model that supports executive functioning challenges. She then takes a deeper dive into the model, sharing how it can…
9 min read
Families
Autism Support Services: What's Available in College
Video. Brief overview of the kinds of supports students and families can expect in the college environment. Can vary a lot by institution.
1 min read
Families
Letter to a Younger Me: Share Laughs and Memories with the People Who are Present
Your academic journey may take some time, maybe even lots more time. Do your best and enjoy the ride, and don’t judge your self-worth by the length of time it takes to complete a degree, the grades you earn, or the salary you make.
4 min read
Students
Download This: Class Organizer for Autistic Students
Downloadable class schedule organizer. Template for keeping track of your classes that can be incorporated into larger organizational strategies.
2 min read
Families
Spectrum Q & A With College Transition Consultant Susan Woods: Time Management
The importance of structuring student time and why considering a reduced course load can support positive transition outcomes.
1 min read
Families
Insight for Autistic Students and Their Families About Developing Self-Advocacy Skills: Two Studies on Emerging Adulthood
What can you do as a parent to act in “autonomy-supportive” ways? We’re glad you asked! You can support developmental processes in an independence-focused and communication-driven environment at home.
9 min read
Students
Patrick Pontificates: Feel Free Not to Do Foolish Things (Even if Other Students Behave Foolishly)
I’m back! ‘Tis I, your so-far-successful autistic STEM grad student, ready to reveal the mysteries of post-secondary life. (Or, at least, I’ll get to the mysteries as soon as I’m finished…
5 min read
Families
Spectrum Q & A With College Transition Consultant Susan Woods: Preparing for Independence
Video interview. How should families navigate the transition from HS to college with their autistic student? Steps to take now for increased self-advocacy and for encouraging internal motivation.
1 min read
Students
How Examining Autism and the Immigrant Experience Together Can Benefit Communities
Video. By considering the autistic experience side by side with the immigrant experience, researcher Laura Gilmour seeks to advocate for both communities.
1 min read
Families
Finding the Right Fit: Good Tech Internships and Jobs Empower Autistic Students
If you are trying to break into software engineering, I can’t recommend sites like HackerRank enough--they’ll get you used to approaching problems in a systematic way that will come in handy in interviews.
9 min read
Students
Tips for Autistic Students: How to Make the Most of a Tutoring Session
Different ways to access tutoring support. Tips about how to prepare for different kinds of tutoring sessions for autistic students.
5 min read
Students
How to Use Your Phone, Calendar & Daily Planner to Master Your College Schedule
Animated video. Listen and watch as our contributor shows you how to organize your college life. A must watch that will have you high-fiving your screen.
1 min read
Educators
College Autism & Student Variability: UDL Resources
Video interview. If you've already watched our brief videos on what UDL is, how to implement it, and tips for group work, this one can direct you to further resources.
1 min read
Educators
Creating a College Club by and for Autistic Students
"This is the most fundamental lesson in founding an autistic student club: you are not alone": college support group founder Justin Robbins.
6 min read
Educators
Assistive Tech to Support Autistic Students in the Classroom
Video. STEM grad student Patrick Dwyer sits down with UC Davis’s Accessible Tech Analyst Joshua Hori for an overview of Livescribe Smartpen, Sonocent Audio Notetaker, and ClaroPDF.
1 min read
Families
Problem-Focused Coping: Autism and Preparing for Graduate School in Research Fields
I am putting this next sentence in bold because it is very important: The only way to get good information about the unwritten expectations of preparing for graduate school is to talk to the experts – to your professors and your TAs.
14 min read
Educators
UDL and Autism: Simple Ideas for Group Work
Stuck in a rut with group work? This brief video offers simple steps for using UDL principles to improve your group work outcomes.
1 min read
Students
Autism & Finding Places on Campus that Support Your Study Needs
The most effective coping mechanism I had was to sit somewhat off-center to avoid the loudest section of the lecture hall.
4 min read
Educators
Universal Design Strategies: Autism & Student Difference
Simple steps for incorporating UDL principles into your pedagogy. Lecture, resource, syllabus, and assessment strategies.
1 min read
Educators
The Autism Accommodations Process: Faculty Primer
The goal is not to provide a golden ticket to whatever a student wants. The goal is to provide them with an equitable classroom experience that gives them an equal opportunity to succeed.
7 min read
Students
Autistic Sensory Sensitivity on Campus, Part Six: Food in Dorms & Residence Halls
In this series, autistic STEM grad student Patrick Dwyer takes a deep dive into sensory sensitivity on campus. These blogs…
6 min read
Students
Autistic Sensory Sensitivity on Campus, Part Five: Food and Cooking
I think it’s interesting, and a bit startling, to realize just how much inter-individual variability there probably is in the human sense of taste.
12 min read
Families
Autistic and Transitioning to College? What Students and Families Need to Know
Video with subtitles. A brief but wide-ranging exploration of what a successful transition takes and how to achieve it.
1 min read
Educators
Bullying and Autism: How to Recognize Harmful Behavior and Create a Safer School Environment
When you see bullying, act. One of the most important things people can do is not to become a "passive bystander" when others are being bullied.
10 min read
Educators
Socializing in STEM Classes and Careers, Part Two: Practical Tips for Autistic Students
Don’t be discouraged if a first or second attempt at reaching out fails—just look for the next opportunity.
5 min read
Families
Socializing in STEM Classes and Careers, Part One: Insight for Autistic Students
Many STEM careers and college courses are thought to focus on “computer work” without much emphasis on the human interaction necessary for success. Oftentimes, however, collaboration with peers can be daunting but necessary to advance one’s studies and career.
7 min read
Educators
STEM, Autism, and Building Professional Relationships: Interview with a Mentor, Part Three
To me, "honors" is about the quality of your work, the quality of your thinking. It's not about whether you can do this full time.
1 min read
Families
What Autistic Students Can Learn Through Self-Guided Campus Tours
Video. The transition to university is major, major change, right? And, autistic people, we often thrive on predictability. It's really valuable to spend some time exploring the physical environment of a university campus before you start.
1 min read
Families
Tips for Autistic Students: Navigating College Breaks
One thing to keep in mind no matter where you end up—be it a friend’s house, your family home, or a relative’s place—is that if you begin to feel overwhelmed by the new environment or sudden transition, you should look for a quiet place to gather your thoughts. Don’t worry about exiting a stressful situation and seeking a solitary spot to calm yourself.
4 min read
Community
STEM, Autism, and Building Professional Relationships: Interview with a Mentor, Part Two
Audio interview. "It happens to people teaching in any kind of academic discipline, where students think [their instructors] can give them advice on things that they’re really not qualified to talk about. We’re discipline experts."
2 min read
Students
What Autistic Students Can Expect from College Science Classes
What you do during class is, in the long term, far more important than any exam or any homework you ever have. Most courses have a lecture component, but even in earlier courses professors will encourage discussion about key concepts.
6 min read
Families
Student Reflection: Transitioning from High School to College as an Autistic STEM Student
Video Interview. Founding the Coalition for Autism Support at Tufts (CAST) created a sense of community that...I thought I would never have.
1 min read
Community
STEM, Autism, and Building Professional Relationships: Interview with a Mentor, Part One
Audio interview. Dr. Schalomon: "If you don't quite know what the student needs, go to the student and ask."
2 min read
Educators
Parent Perspective: Autism and Auditing Community College Classes
Video interview. Brief discussion of one student's success auditing classes on a community college campus in preparation for the transition to higher ed.
1 min read
Students
Four Things Autistic Students Can Expect from Intro STEM Classes
In most cases, it’s not the facts that count; it’s what you do with them. Even in an introductory foundation course, raw knowledge only gets you so far.
4 min read
Educators
Notes from a 2019 Talk on Autism and Employment
Be aware of unconscious bias in interviews, plan for it, and be prepared to disarm it if necessary. For example: if you find eye contact challenging, acknowledge it and then communicate that you are glad to be there and are engaged in the discussion.
3 min read
Families
Important Safety Tools for Your Autistic High School or College Student
it’s important to have some emergency numbers available at all times. Preferably, these numbers should be programmed on the phone and also available on a wallet-sized card in case the phone is dead and the student needs to borrow someone else’s. Parents, therapists, and a friend or roommate in the college town are all important numbers to have available.
6 min read
Families
Parent Perspective: Autism and Community College Dual Enrollment
Video Interview. Attending dual enrollment classes allows students to get used to college work and what the demands are going to be. Plus, they accrue college credit in HS.
1 min read
Families
Students on the Spectrum and Choosing a College Therapist
Interview. Availability for college students is important as well. Do therapists have office hours that coincide with their class schedule? What is their availability in between appointments if a need arises?
8 min read
Families
Parent Perspective: Autism and Community Colleges
Video Interview. Students can find the community-based ethos of a community college conducive to taking smaller steps and breaking processes into manageable parts.
1 min read
Students
Patrick Pontificates: An Autistic STEM Grad Student Says, "Go to Office Hours!"
You know how Dumbledore in Harry Potter says, “Help is given at Hogwarts to those who ask for it?” I think that should be my new motto when writing about college, because help is given at college to those who ask for it.
6 min read
Families
Parent Perspective: Autism and the College Transition
Video interview. If transitioning to college becomes part of your everyday conversation, it becomes much easier for students to adapt.
1 min read
Educators
Autism & College: Autistic Culture, UDL, and Student Voices
When we talk about folding autistic and differently-abled students into community colleges and STEM careers, what we’re really talking about is best practices for everyone. It follows that when our most disadvantaged students’ needs are met, we are leveling the playing field for all, with or without a “documented need.” Thank you for believing in students like me.
2 min read
Students
STEM, College Research, and the Neurodiversity Movement: Investigating Autism Doesn't Have to Mean Searching for a "Cure"
She loves science. Now she loves autism, too. She decides she wants to research autism, but there’s one problem: in the autism community, “research” can be synonymous with “the cure,” and that’s a major problem indeed. Many autistic people don't want to be cured. How will she proceed?
7 min read
Families
Three Assistive Technologies Autistic College Students Should Know
In high school, many 504 plans are written to include use of assistive technologies in the public school setting. However, once at a higher education level, these supports still can be extremely helpful for a variety of reasons.
5 min read
Educators
Autism, STEM, and UDL: What is Universal Design for Learning?
UDL is a framework for designing based on three broad principles tied to how our brain functions in terms of networks.
2 min read
Educators
Alternative Grading Can Support HS Students on the Spectrum Who Want to Pursue STEM in College
What advantages are there to adjusting the traditional grading system and working on something more specific to an individual student?
1 min read
Families
Let's Talk Autism, Special Interests & College Social Life
Not only were there more people who shared a special interest with me, but the ones who didn’t thought no less of me for having them. In fact, they thought it was interesting, because they had interests of their own, and we had a shared experience that way, autism or not.
4 min read
Educators
Autism, STEM, and Universal Design: Support Student Difference
Video interview. Having your syllabus state that you support students with disabilities is just one way to create inclusivity and demonstrate your support for all students.
1 min read
Students
Patrick Pontificates: An Autistic STEM Grad Student on not just Memorizing Facts, but Understanding the Material
We don’t learn well by cramming. We learn best through distributed practice sessions. We call this the “spacing effect” or the “distributed practice effect,” and there’s a ton of research to back it up.
4 min read
Students
Tips for Autistic Students: How to Prioritize Assignments
Video interview. Having your syllabus state that you support students with disabilities is one simple action discussed that helps create an inclusive academic environment.
1 min read
Students
Finding the Right Fit: Things for Autistic Students to Think About When Choosing College Classes
Talk with your professors about your potential needs, whether that means a quiet testing environment, extended time on projects, or organizational assistance.
4 min read
Students
Insider Guide: Navigating the College Admissions Process for Autistic Students (Without Sacrificing Your Mental Health)
Set aside time for your passions, for your special interests and the things that give you immense joy.
5 min read
Educators
A Guide for Autistic Students: World Mental Health Day 2018, Young People and Mental Health in a Changing World
Young people on the spectrum often feel increased judgement and pressure to fit in with their [neurotypical] peers...We need more awareness of the mental health issues many young people on the spectrum may face.
5 min read
Educators
Autistic Sensory Sensitivity on Campus, Part Four: Coping Strategies
Sometimes it’s not possible to avoid a sensation. When you’re exposed to a distressing stimulus, try to breathe slowly and deeply.
8 min read
Educators
Five Tips for Autistic Students: How and When to Meet With a Professor
Always be respectful and professional when corresponding with a professor or course instructor. Using “Dear” to begin emails, using the professor’s last name (i.e. Professor Brown), and signing off with a “Thank you,” or “Sincerely” goes a long way!
6 min read
Families
An Autistic Student's Positive College Transition in STEM
Align your strengths with your interests. Find a supportive mentor. Be willing to accept some trial-and-error. Autistic students can succeed in STEM.
1 min read
Families
The Ultimate College Guide: Lists, Schedules, and Calendars for Autistic Students
Scheduling your time well is one of the simplest and most effective strategies to achieving success at college! But how can we schedule our time well? Read on to find out.
13 min read
Students
Autism and STEM: Am I Ready for the College Experience? What Are My Goals?
Autistic students must define obvious needs, such as academic and transportation accommodations, but it is also beneficial to measure more nuanced needs such as independence and social living.
9 min read
Students
Let's Talk Autism, Academic Special Interests, and STEM
Special interests are your Marauder’s Map, your hyperdrive, and your superpower. Let’s dive into how they work.
4 min read
Families
Autistic Self-Advocacy and STEM: A College Journey
Laura Gilmour shares her journey from new student learning about college expectations to confident graduate student conducting her own STEM research.
1 min read
Students
Autistic Sensory Sensitivity on Campus: Part Three, The Role of Environmental Context and Internal Stress
Our sensory experiences don’t only depend on the sensory input—don’t only depend on the properties of the specific sensory stimulus we experience—but also depend on other factors.
6 min read
Students
"Find a Pathway That Works for You": Jody Goldstein, Director of Disabilities Services, UMASS Lowell
When students receive peer support, they are much less likely to feel isolated and marginalized. Judy Goldstein discusses ways peer mentoring groups help autistic students thrive.
5 min read
Educators
How Autistic Students Can Start Campus Clubs to Develop Friendships and Support Networks
The keys to starting your organization will be motivation, a specific focus, and patience with the logistics necessary to getting it running.
5 min read
Students
Patrick Pontificates: An Autistic STEM Grad Student on All You Need to Know About Lists, Schedules, and Calendars
Patrick Dwyer has an organizational secret to share that’s “so well hidden, concealed so elegantly, that even many neurotypicals are unaware of it.”
3 min read
Educators
Connecting to Services: Support for Your Student With a Diagnosis of Autism
Contributor Thad Campbell and social worker Matthew Morse discuss how parents of aspiring college STEM students can secure valuable HS services for them
1 min read
Educators
Autistic Students Can Ask College Professors For These Supports
Answer questions about the syllabus. Use unambiguous language. Julia Leverone shares simple supports that autistic students can ask their professors for.
2 min read
Students
Autistic and Unsure About How to Approach Your Professors? Dr. Julia Leverone Walks You Through the Steps
Dr. Julia Leverone demystifies the process of talking to college professors for autistic students and explains why it can be helpful to approach them.
1 min read
Students
10 Things for Autistic Students to Remember When Choosing College Classes
STEM grad student Patrick Dwyer on being autistic and registering for classes. We don't want to say this is THE definitive class registration post, but it's pretty definitive.
10 min read
Students
Autistic Sensory Sensitivity on Campus: Part Two, Real-World Examples
Only you can say whether you are upset by any of these common sensory challenges, and whether there are stimuli that distress you that I haven’t listed here. You can hardly develop coping strategies if you’re not sure what you’re coping with!
7 min read
Students
Patrick Pontificates: An Autistic STEM Grad Student on the Value of Jobs and Volunteer Experience and How to Prioritize the Work/School Balance
Our very wise (and funny) contributor Patrick Dwyer has pondered the value of jobs and volunteer experience for autistic students: prepare to be illuminated
4 min read
Students
Autistic Sensory Sensitivity on Campus: Part One, Introduction
I’ll do my best to introduce the problem and provide a sort of vocabulary and framework that we can use to help understand our own sensory experiences.
13 min read
Educators
Interview With the Creator of "The Network": a Social Networking Program for Young Adults on the Spectrum
How joining autism-specific student groups can enhance your college experience, helping you make friends, build skills, and develop academic connections.
4 min read
Families
Supporting Your Autistic College Student Who Also Has OCD
How parents of students who have both autism and OCD can support their teenagers' and young adults' mental heath and academic success
4 min read
Students
Tips for Autistic Students: How to Prepare for the First Day of College
When the first day comes, it can bring a variety of emotions and complications. The good news is, there are ways to soften the impact of this radically new experience.
7 min read
Students
Strategies for Autistic Students Around Exam and Paper Due Dates
Organizational whiz Katie Matthews shares techniques to help autistic students optimize their studying to earn good grades on exams and major papers
8 min read
Educators
Autistic People Don't Need to Be Cured
Autism advocate Justin Robbins makes an impassioned case for a positive view of autistic experience and points out how autistic strengths can fit with STEM fields
6 min read
Educators
Case Study: Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Autistic Students
How professional development workshops helped me gain valuable insight and strategies for creative instruction through the application of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) techniques.
3 min read
Families
Common College Accommodations for Autism
College transition expert Susan Woods explains what classroom accommodations are typically available to autistic students
1 min read
Families
Activating Common College Accommodations for Autism
You know college accommodations exist, but how do students activate them? College transition expert Susan Woods explains the process.
1 min read
Families
Evaluating a Disability Service Office: Autism & College
How can you get a clear sense of the quality of a Disabilities Office and the kinds of support their staff and programs provide? College transition expert Susan Woods shares some tips.
1 min read
Educators
Case Study: Classroom Strategies to Support Students on the Spectrum
College transition expert Susan Woods explains how professors can collaborate with autistic students and the Disabilities Office to support academic success
5 min read
Families
How Four Community Colleges Support Students on the Spectrum
At a community college near you: programs to support academic and social success for autistic students. Check out these four examples.
1 min read
Students
Autism and Understanding Unwritten College Expectations: Part Three, The Course Calendar
Contributor Katie Matthews breaks down the "hidden meaning" in common syllabus components for autistic students. Learn how to make the calendar work for you
7 min read
Students
Autism & Understanding Common Syllabus Phrases
Say what? Contributor Katie Matthews breaks down some common syllabus phrases for autistic students, helping to make course expectations clearer.
6 min read
Students
Autism and Understanding Unwritten College Expectations: Part One, Syllabus Overview
Consider the syllabus a mini-rule book. These documents can be upwards of seven or eight pages (yikes!), but Katie Matthews helps students sort it all out.
6 min read
Students
Reflections from an Autistic Young Professional on High School to College Transition Mistakes
Physics-lover and Editorial Board Member Arianne Garcia explores challenges in her academic experience related to autism, and how she found her professional path
6 min read
Families
Autism Inclusive-Hiring Spotlight: Microsoft
You know who is hiring autistic individuals? Microsoft, for one! Learn about their innovative process and how their recruiting people on the spectrum.
8 min read
Students
Advice from an Autistic Student: Living With People in College
Justin Robbins's blog about living with a roommate in college and being autistic has tons of great advice and perspective--bring on that roommate survey!
5 min read
Students
Autistic and Looking for Social Connections on Campus? Join a Club!
There’s something incredibly special about communities of autistic and neurodivergent people: we’re not all alike, but we all know what it’s like to be different, which makes us more accepting of people for who they are.
10 min read
Students
How to Organize Your Semester: for Autistic Students
Hate the word "organization"? This post might change your mind!
5 min read
Students
Autism, LGBTQA Dating, Community, and Student Groups: A Reflection
Shared interests (or special interests) don’t just give you something to talk about: they can reflect shared values and shared tastes that will build the foundation for a lasting, loving relationship where you never run out of things to talk about.
7 min read
Families
Autism & the College Transition: On Self-Assessment
"I do best when": college transition expert Susan Woods shares how self-assessment can help autistic students advocate for what they need and why
1 min read
Families
Autism & the College Transition: What is a Syllabus
The syllabus is "the ins and outs of the class." College transition expert Susan Woods explains why it's so important and why autistic students should approach their professors about it
1 min read
Students
Letter to a Younger Me: You're Passionate, More Passionate Than Most People Can Imagine
Hello! It’s good to finally talk with you. I’ve wanted to do this for years now. How are you doing? You don’t have to say “good” or anything else like that unless you mean it. It’s kind of odd how we (society) ask that question but there’s only one acceptable answer.
5 min read
Educators
Template for Approaching Your Teachers About Autism
Even if you know you want to disclose your autism to a professor and know what you want to say, this template can help ensure you communicate confidently
2 min read
Families
Autism Inclusive-Hiring Spotlight: German Software Company SAP
We're big fans of SAP, whose inclusive-hiring practices are geared in part toward hiring autistic job candidates. Read on to learn more about their process.
6 min read
Students
How to Tell if You Have Autism, OCD, or Both
Are you an autistic college student who feels worried or stressed, and want to know whether there's more going on? This post may provide some answers.
3 min read
Families
Autism and Community College: Why It's a Good Fit
Open admissions, articulation agreements with four-year colleges, flexible schedules, low cost, robust support services--autistic students can thrive at community colleges.
4 min read
Students
The Push for Neurodiversity: Six Reasons to be Hopeful About Job Prospects for Autistic Students
Tech leaders are paving the way for greater autism-inclusivity in the workforce, rethinking the interview, providing accommodations, and investing in people
5 min read
Families
Purple Table Reservations: How One Company is Accommodating Autism in Restaurants
Most of us like to share a meal at a restaurant, and Purple Table Reservations is making that easier for autistic people and other people with disabilities, which can make dining out a challenge.
4 min read
Families
Five Ways to Prepare Your Autistic Student for Achievement as They Transition to College
Practice life-skills. Find a point-person on campus. Encourage your autistic student's self-advocacy. Becker discusses these and other supports for students on the spectrum preparing to transition to college.
5 min read
Families
Know Disability Laws: Reduce Your Anxiety When Your Student on the Spectrum Transitions to College
FERPA. IDEA. ADA. After reading this article, you'll have a clearer understanding of these laws and what they mean for you and your autistic college student.
4 min read
Families
Parent Perspective: Autism, Independence, Safety, and Campus Choice
Maureen Perkins and her son who has autism started planning his college transition his sophomore year of HS. It paid off. Strategies that worked for them.
6 min read
Families
Senior Year: Seven Steps Autistic Students Should Take to Prepare for College
Taking campus tours, exploring student activities, and accepting a little anxiety. Things autistic students can do to make college transition, well, if not "a breeze," a little less intimidating!
4 min read
Families
Safe Sexuality on Campus for Adults on the Spectrum: Recognizing the Unique Challenges
Emotional safety, physical safety, and practical considerations that help autistic students create and maintain a variety of healthy relationships.
1 min read
Educators
Changing Perspectives About Students Who Have Autism
Advocates for autistic college students, including Editorial Board Members Sara Sanders Gardner and Theresa Revans-McMenimon, share tips for professors.
5 min read
Educators
How Greater Autism Representation Positively Impacts the Workplace
Boosting productivity is just one of the benefits to having more people who have an autism diagnosis represented in the work force. Read on to learn more.
6 min read
Families
Junior Year: Five Things Students on the Spectrum Should Do to Prepare for College
What academic, professional, and social skills are you hoping to develop? Is a four-year college, a two-year program, or technical certificate the right fit? Having clear and realistic goals will prepare you for the next steps.
4 min read
Families
Strategies for Autistic Students in Overcoming Anxiety
Anxiety can be especially overwhelming and negatively impact the school experience. Luckily, there are many strategies you can use to reduce your anxiety and make you feel more confident and positive. Remember: you are not alone!
5 min read
Families
Six Things Autistic Students Should Do During the First Week of Classes
Meeting with the Disabilities Services Office during your first week of college classes is just one important step for autistic students.
5 min read
Families
Three Essential Ways to Support Your Autistic Student's Transition to College
Be prepared to step back. This might be easier said than done, but treating your autistic student like an adult is key to their academic growth.
4 min read
Students
Five Reasons to Self-Disclose Your Autism When Going to College
Accommodations. Supports. Privacy Laws. These and other considerations can help autistic students decide whether to disclose their diagnosis in college.
5 min read
Educators
Tips for Teachers Engaging with Students on the Spectrum
Unsure what providing accommodations to autistic students means in practical terms? Accommodations can be easy to implement and bring positive results.
5 min read