About Disabilities
Autism
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disability characterized by differences in social communication, sensory processing and behavior. Many autistic students are highly focused, detail-oriented thinkers who approach problems in original ways and bring a distinct perspective to their academic communities. It’s known as a spectrum because experiences, strengths and challenges vary widely from person to person.
Barriers to Access
In a college environment, you might find some of these things more challenging:
- Interpreting nonverbal cues in social interactions
- Expressing emotion in ways that feel expected or natural to others
- Sensory overload from lights, sounds, smells or crowded spaces
- Navigating new or unpredictable social situations
- Unexpected changes to routine or course structure