Young People with Asperger's Head Off to College

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Off to College: Young People with Asperger's Get the Support They Need to Live Without Limitations

Young people on the autism spectrum are attending college and entering the workforce in record numbers. While the transition from high school to college is smooth for some, others face unique challenges such as making friends, living in a less structured environment, asking for help, and keeping up with their studies. Although it isn't always easy, individuals with high-functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome are finding new ways to capitalize on their strengths, work through their limitations, and earn those college diplomas.

In recent years, younger generations of children have been diagnosed more frequently than ever with milder forms of autism and Asperger's. As they begin to turn 18 and head off to college, universities around the country are trying to adapt and establish a climate for success. Still, in college, young people with autism-related disorders don't receive the same accommodations and supports they received in grade school. Thus, experts recommend these students take stock of their strengths and limitations and actively seek the help they need to succeed.

For students with autism or Asperger's who are struggling in college-preparatory academics or in college courses, there are special programs that are designed specifically to boost their academic and social success. One such program, Talisman Camps and Programs, works with young adults ages 18 to 21 with high-functioning autism or Asperger's to boost their grade point average, manage their time more effectively, and build their confidence in the classroom setting.

For four weeks, Talisman students live and learn together through a variety of wilderness activities, experiential learning tours, and lessons in independent living that are focused on exploring the possibilities available to them in the adult world. During the wilderness adventure, students participate in backpacking, paddling, rock and tree climbing, and a high ropes course while learning problem-solving and communication skills that are essential to college life. Talisman also offers a complete itinerary of college visits, career exploration, community service, social skills practice, and lessons on meal-planning and preparation, cooperative living, budgeting, and personal responsibility.

Talisman's sister program, Southeast Journeys - an experiential academic alternative for adolescents ages 13 - 17 with Asperger's syndrome, high-functioning autism, and similar autism spectrum disorders - also specializes in preparing students who may have struggled in more traditional environments for the academic and social rigors of college. Students with autism or Asperger's often excel in a learning environment made up of small experiential learning groups that support their particular needs. With personalized attention from staff members who dedicate themselves to working with young people on the autism spectrum and a clear, consistent academic structure, students are equipped at a young age with the skills they need to earn a college education.

In addition to specialized programs, students with autism or Asperger's may benefit from seeking out a university with counselors and professors who understand the unique challenges facing this group of students, and that offers academic accommodations like extra time for taking tests and social outlets for students with autism. As educators and college staff learn more about autism spectrum disorders, opportunities continue to arise for young scholars to excel beyond high school.

College life is about much more than classroom learning. Academic success depends heavily on the development of age-appropriate social and independent living skills. For young people with autism or Asperger's who dream of success in college and beyond, but struggle academically or socially, there are programs that can provide the support you need. With research and hard work, and a little encouragement from those around you, a quality education and promising career are well within reach.

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