My son is a high school senior, and has Aspergers, ADHD and mild anxiety. Executive functioning (organization, time management, attention, self-advocacy) and picking up on social cues are difficult for him. He’s done well in school and is bright (1430 SAT - equivalent to 32 ACT), but we really believe he needs a college with an ASD support program. We’re considering Alabama, Western Kentucky, UT Chattanooga, Marshall and West Florida. His GPA and SAT score are well above the average for these schools, so we think he has a good chance of being admitted, but the ASD programs are small, so no guarantees which ones would accept him. We’d appreciate any feedback or advice from anyone knowledgeable about these ASD programs and the universities. We also are wondering whether the honors college program that some of these schools offer is a good idea for someone in the ASD program. Thanks very much!
I don’t have experience with the ASD program, but my nephew with LDs had a very good experience at Marshall. He found the environment very encouraging and was able to get additional support when needed.
Hi - I mostly lurk here but I wanted to reply because my son is also an Aspie and will be a senior at DePaul this year. We also looked for ASD support programs. We ended up realizing that we couldn’t necessarily find a program customized for ASD but should also consider schools with strong disabilities services through the centers for students with disabilities. DePaul had good disabilities services but not a specific ASD program. We ultimately decided that having him closer to home about a half an hour away was extremely important to our family.
You may also want to consider that your son may have strong like and dislikes about his environment and the overall university setting should be strongly considered. My son really desired an urban setting and we also considered Drexel University and Saint Joseph’s in Philadelphia, who both had programs for ASD. There are also programs situated near universities that offer services for those on the spectrum. CIPworldwide.org may not be appropriate for your son but it is a resource you might want to take a look at.
I want to let you know that you will find a place for your son and he can be successful. It may take more time or more of your efforts to support, but you can be assured that they do grow from their college experiences.
If your son is “bright”, functions in HS w/o a personal aide, and has SAT scores in the 600 - 650+ range, I’d suggest broadening your search to include schools that participate in TRIO program, a federally-funded program targeted towards student retention for low-income, 1st generation, and learning disabled students. ASP is categorized as a learning disability. TRIO programs provide enhanced student academic services, including tutoring, one-on-one monitoring, structured “social bonding” events, etc. There are some great schools on TRIO list, including Carleton College (for SAT 700+ students), St Olaf, Knox and Beloit Colleges (all Midwest CTCL colleges). Go online and review list on Dept of Ed website. We’ve a ASP son and toured noted schools - all would’ve been great fits for an academically-inclined ASP student.
Prior noted DePaul University also participates in TRIO program.
I’ve been reading College Confidential for years but this is my first post. We have a daughter who just began her sophomore year at West Florida. She has Asperger’s and a host of learning disabilities. Her stats were a little less than your son - 29 ACT, top 15% or so of her graduating class. We have nothing but good things to say about UWF. Ours is on campus a week early because she actually has a job in residence life this semester! Her first two stops after work today will be to the disabilities office and the counseling center. Both are fantastic. I would also strongly advise you to look into the Kugelman Honors Program. It’s really good and has an honors residence hall where most of the freshmen (and many upperclassmen) live. Our daughter thrived in the program. UWF doesn’t get a lot of play here on CC but we’ve been extremely pleased with her experience.
UTChattanooga-- has a great ASD program (Mosaic); and the dorms at UTC may be appealing as most are single bedroom in a shared 4 person apartment- allowing each student a private space when needed. Also- look at what social organizations may be available-- if your son likes anime, gaming, or whatever-- is there an organization he can be involved in that will meet his social needs.