March 09, 2022
College. The word conjures up so many images and experiences. For students in their freshmen...
Self-advocacy (n.) is an individual’s ability to effectively communicate, convey, negotiate or assert his or her own interests, desires, needs, and rights. It involves making informed decisions and taking responsibility for those decisions (VanReusen et al., 1994). Self-advocacy skills can be learned, and are crucial to develop in order for you to gain independence and make important decisions about your own life.
Three students, Capri, Haley, and Jamie, allowed us to interview them about their college experiences. Read their interviews to get a glimpse of how they self-advocate, manage academics, and navigate campus life.
Hometown: Batavia, Ohio
University/Program: Studying Media Arts and Animation at the Art Institute of Ohio-Cincinnati
Autism Symptoms: Echolalia, stimming, routine dependence
Hometown: Boca Raton, Florida
University/Program: Law, University of Miami. J.D. expected May 2018.
B.A. in Criminology & Law and B.S. in Psychology from University of Florida in 2015
Autism Symptoms: Major challenges in college included learning to live independently, executive functioning skills, and stress management.
Hometown: Webster, New York
University/Program: Sophomore studying Communications at Monroe Community College
Autism Symptoms: Stimming, verbal repetition
Here are some tips and checklists to help you best prepare for college.
Dena Gassner explains how her academic trajectory was so different from her son's, and why it's so important to be true to yourself.
Tucker James Collins, a bright young man with Asperger Syndrome, shares his experience transferring colleges and getting the financial support he needed to gain true independence. Tucker graduated with honors from Drexel University.
March 09, 2022
College. The word conjures up so many images and experiences. For students in their freshmen...
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