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Academic Advice

Baby Steps to Big Dreams

Change is scary. To embrace the unknown goes against every fiber of our animalistic instincts. As humans, we tend to fear change because we find comfort in our expectations and certainty of routine. For individuals on the spectrum, this fear is intensified. The well-being of those living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) depends on knowing…

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College Social Scenes: My Ways to Overcome Social Challenges

James Taniguchi is a 2016 OAR Scholarship recipient. This is the second post in his series for OAR’s blog. As I mentioned in my previous post, this blog will focus on my college experience so far and the social strategies I’m using to overcome my challenges with verbal communication. This post is intended to help students…

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The Things Autistic People Are Passionate About

Self advocate Sue Abramowski explains how many people with ASD feel about their interests and passions, and how these passions are unique and something to be proud of. This was originally posted on The Mighty. If you’re familiar with autism, I’m sure you’ve heard of the term “special interests.” Everyone has something they have a…

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An “Invisible Barrier”: Is College Any Different?

James Taniguchi is a 2016 OAR Scholarship recipient. This is the first post in his series for OAR’s blog. Many of ­my interpersonal relationships have ended abruptly or in disappointment. Sometimes these experiences make me think there is an “invisible barrier” that constantly surrounds me. Prior to attending college, I had expected to overcome my difficulties…

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My Fiance and I are Both Autistic, But Different

Self advocate Jackie Parslow shares her experiences about being in a romantic relationship with someone who is also on the autism spectrum. This was originally posted on The Mighty. My fiance Peter and I are both autistic. While we love each other dearly, there are still obstacles with communication and other differences. As Dr. Stephen…

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One Part of Sensory Overload That You Might Not Think About

Self advocate Jordan Aukema shines some light on the often times overwhelming experience of sensory overload and strategies on how to cope by detailing his own encounters with this challenging phenomenon. This was originally published on The Mighty. When you hear “sensory overload,” what do you think? Most would think a loud room with lights and things rubbing against…

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My College Experience as Someone on the Autism Spectrum

Self advocate Erin Clemens shares her thoughts regarding her undergraduate experience while studying to become a teacher, and what motivated her to finish college and beyond. This blog was originally posted on The Mighty. School was always a challenge for me. I remember struggling to understand what the teachers wanted from me. I remember fearing…

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