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Autistic Students Can Ask College Professors For These Supports

Published
Reading time
2 min read
Author
Julia Leverone

Julia LeveroneContributor

Julia  Leverone, M.F.A., Ph.D., is a Dallas-based university lecturer of language and writing (Spanish, poetry, and essays), and is a poet and translator herself. She also has community college teaching experience and tutors students one-on-one in various disciplines. Her Facebook handle is @JuliaLeverone and her website is  julialeverone.com .

Originally published on Stairway to STEM by Julia Leverone

At a Glance

  • Julia Leverone shares simple supports that autistic students can ask their professors for.

Autistic college students can ask their professors for supports. If you've watched Dr. Leverone's STS video about demystifying interactions with your professor in office hours, you may be ready to speak with your instructor or professor. Talk to them about specific actions they can take to improve the classroom experience.

Additionally, you may want to visit the Disabilities Services Office (DSO) for formal accommodations. Diagnosed disabled students are legally entitled to accommodations and supports. If you don't have a diagnosis, let this video support your self-advocacy. Talking directly to professors so that they understand your needs can have big payoffs in your classroom experience. 

If you're feeling nervous, it's important to keep in mind that the supports you're asking for are likely to benefit all of the students in the class. So go in feeling confident, ready to share, and open to dialogue. We also have a useful template for approaching your college instructors here.

Building academic relationships with your professors can enhance your learning experience and set the foundation for future academic success. You can learn more about accommodations, best practices for college instruction, and interacting with your instructors from our savvy contributors. Read on!

Assistive Tech to Support Autistic Students in the Classroom

Three Assistive Technologies Autistic College Students Should Know

Five Tips for Autistic Students: How and When to Meet With a Professor

Student Core Issue: Understanding and Using College Resources

Spectrum Q & A With College Transition Consultant Susan Woods: Evaluating a Disability Office.

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