College and Autism: How to Make It Work

As the definition of autism has expanded to include people with high intelligence, terrific verbal skills, and very obvious talents, colleges are saying "yes" to autistic applicants. But despite all these abilities, teens and young adults on the autism spectrum are subject to a wide range of symptoms that can make college life extremely difficult.

Maureen Johnson holds a Ph.D. in Health Education, and is now a college instructor. She was also recently diagnosed with PDD-NOS, a form of high functioning autism. Based on her experiences, Maureen offers teens and their parents these Hints and Tips for Going Through College with Autism.

Because so many teens on the autism spectrum are getting to college age, a number of universities have started up specialized programs and support systems to accomodate autistic students. At the same time, businesses aimed at supporting students with special needs are hanging out their shingles. One, called AHEADD, recently received positive publicity.

Are you an adult with autism who made his or her way through college? Did you make use of any of the new autism support mechanisms available on or off campus? What worked or works for you?