According to a study released by Harvard University, more students with autism than ever before are enrolled in higher education, either online or in-person — a statistic we couldn’t be more thrilled about! Part of what has lead to this major bump in both applications from and acceptance letters to students with autism is colleges’ and Universities’ commitment to providing on-campus support programs for those with special needs, many of which are run by passionate, hard-working students.
If you’re looking to bring autism awareness to your college campus, we’ve got a few ideas on exactly how you can do that:
“Light it up Blue.”
As the color most associated with autism awareness, shine a blue light on your residence hall, school’s statues, or garden. Just be sure to get permission in advance from your school.
Wear blue.
Organize a day where your entire organization, grade, or even school pledges to wear blue in solidarity with students on the spectrum.
Get the word out.
Set up a table in your dining hall or at the entrance of your sports arena and hand out pamphlets with information regarding how many people today have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the challenges they face, and the ways people can help improve their lives.
Organize a fundraiser.
From bake sales to comedy shows, dance marathons to food eating contests, there’s no limit to the number of ways you can raise money for the autism community.
Invite someone with autism to speak at your event.
The best way to learn about autism? Speak to someone with it! More often than not, people with autism are happy to talk about the many ways autism has both positively and negatively affected their lives.
Are you looking to navigate your path to success? Debra Solomon of Spectrum Strategies helps young adults with autism and other learning challenges improve time management and organizational skills and guides them toward personal and professional goals by breaking larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. Her coaching is geared to facilitating the transition from school to college or employment. For more information and fees, call Debra at (516) 510-7637.