Understanding privacy laws in relation to autism and college student rights can help students and families prepare for the college transition.

Understanding privacy laws in relation to autism and college student rights can help students and families prepare for the college transition.
Brief video. Declaring a disability in college? College transition expert Susan Woods introduces families to the basics in order to access accommodations.
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.
Faculty, ask questions and seek to understand the accommodations process to help dispel misconceptions about unfair advantages for students receiving accommodations.
Quick tips for instructors and students about supporting neurodivergent students in the college classroom.
Video. Brief overview of the kinds of supports students and families can expect in the college environment. Can vary a lot by institution.
The importance of structuring student time and why considering a reduced course load can support positive transition outcomes.
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.
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.
How professional development workshops helped me gain valuable insight and strategies for creative instruction through the application of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) techniques.