Are You a Talented Student with Autism? Western Michigan University Wants You!

Some Universities really practice what they preach.  Take Western Michigan University’s commitment to the success of their students with autism.

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For students with autism (and comorbid conditions) who have successfully gained admittance to WMU’s undergraduate program, there are several layers of support available.  First, there is the Dean of Students, supported by the office of Student Affairs, which is committed to helping all students succeed at Western by connecting them to resources across campus including academic advisors and career services counselors.  

Then, there is the office of Disability Services for Students, whose office works toward inclusion, acceptance, respect and empowerment for every student, by helping each student with disabilities develop a plan of ADA-compliant accommodations and services that allows them to successfully access their college education.  ​

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Finally, there is the Autism Services Center, whose services go "beyond the reasonable accommodations provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendment Act and WMU's Disability Services for Students. Support components include weekly one-on-one meetings with the ASC coordinator or graduate assistants, workshops and informational sessions, organized social events, and increased communication between students and professors, staff, and parents."

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To receive ASC services, students must apply for services by filling out an ASC application and having their parents fill out a questionnaire. This is a tremendous opportunity to manage your way through college and to a professional existence in a manner that respects your gifts and your neurodiversity.  Other schools have similar programs.  Leave a comment if you would like to see profiles of other schools with similarly inclusive programs for autism or other disabilities.  And please contact me if I can be of assistance in setting up services for your college experience!