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Autism &
College
A diagnosis of ASD-I (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Level I), definitely does not mean that a student cannot be successful in college.
In fact, many neurodiverse students, as well as those with learning differences or learning disabilities, are very successful in college – it just means that some extra attention may be needed in a few critical areas.
College brings the opportunity to make new friends, explore interesting subjects, and learn how to live independently as a young adult. It also provides some challenges, as students need to learn how to navigate a new set of hidden rules and social expectations. Learn more about how Mansfield Hall supports college students with Autism and other learning differences.
The College Experience for Students with Autism
At first glance, colleges can look like impersonal bureaucracies, with lots of rules and regulations. While clear expectations may be appealing for some students, it is also important to remember that not every rule is permanent. Just because a professor’s syllabus provides a due date, and also states that no late work will be graded, does not mean that that same professor will not gladly offer an extension on a paper if a student asks with enough lead time. This is confusing, because one rule is clearly stated, and yet that same rule can be easily changed just by asking.
How are college students with Autism supposed to be able to tell the difference between rules and regulations that are flexible and those that cannot be changed? How can students leverage their strengths while also continuing to build critical executive functioning and time management skills? Where can students go to receive the support needed for success on a college campus? These questions can only be answered by asking for help. For students who are motivated to “do it on my own” and who “do not want to use my needs as a crutch” it may be counterintuitive to ask for accommodations or exceptions to clearly stated rules – but the reality is that most students are asking for exceptions, extensions, and dispensations because they know how to navigate the world of hidden rules. In fact, it is only students who don’t that find themselves at a disadvantage.
College can be a place where students with Autism can thrive – but it also requires students to be more proactive in acknowledging their areas of growth and asking for support and services. To learn more about Mansfield Hall’s support and services please contact us today.
Feeling overwhelmed in college- but not sure why? you’re not alone.
The key isn’t just “pushing through”, it’s learning to recognize what’s happening before you hit that wall, and having systems to reset.
That might look like:
• stepping outside for a walk
• box breathing between classes
• putting on a guided meditation
• reaching out to someone you trust
Small supports = big difference over time.
At Mansfield Hall, we help students build the awareness and tools to regulate, recharge, and navigate college in a way that actually works for them.
What’s one thing that helps you reset when you’re overwhelmed?
#CollegeLife #StudentMentalHealth #ExecutiveFunction #StressManagement
Excellent week across the board!
People Ops team member Jo touched down in Madison, receiving a warm welcome with coffee and a trip to see the Capitol building. VP of Program Ops Hayley grounded herself and took in the beauty of the Statehouse. Pancakes were served, and Burlington student Nikhil took the stage to perform with his choir.
A great week to zoom out and back in- and reflect on all the things we have to be grateful for!
#collegesupport #neurodiversity #worklifebalance
College can be energizing… and draining.
If you’ve ever felt socially exhausted, you’re not alone.
Understanding your limits (and what helps you recharge) can make all the difference.
#CollegeStudents #Neurodiversity #StudentWellbeing
Hangin` in there until spring weather kicks in!
This week at Mansfield Hall our Eugene, OR students did some rock climbing, Burlington, VT connections students took an outing to the bowling alley/arcade, while others took a trip to a local sugar house to learn about all things maple syrup. Students in Madison, WI continued their endeavors to learn about all things maintenance...and they make it look fun!
Happy Friday Friends- enjoy the weekend.
Mansfield Hall had the joy of hosting some professionals at our Madison, WI location recently, which included a student panel.
One of the questions asked was: What do you like about Mansfield Hall?
The answer: how inclusive it is.
No one gets to choose the brain they have, but we do get to choose the world we create. We choose to accept, celebrate, and work toward a world that’s more inclusive of every brain and the incredible things they can do.
Happy World Autism Awareness Day. We see you, and we celebrate you for all that you are and all that you can be!
❤️MH
#autismawareness #neurodiversity #collegesupport
Sensory overload happens when your brain receives more sensory input than it can comfortably process.
Our nervous systems are constantly taking in information, but when there’s too much coming in (or it’s coming too fast) our systems can become overwhelmed.
We get it, and it can be managed with small, intentional supports like reducing input, creating predictable routines, and building in quiet recovery time.
