Support for Autistic Students in California Colleges?

I'm a junior with autism and starting to think about college. Are there any colleges in California that are particularly supportive of autistic students? I'm prioritizing places that can give me, and other students on the spectrum, the necessary support to succeed.

Absolutely! There are numerous colleges in California that offer services specifically tailored for students on the spectrum.

For instance, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has a program known as PEERS, which stands for Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills. It specifically targets social skills training for neurodiverse young people, including those on the spectrum. Plus, UCLA is renowned for its disability services center as a whole.

Then you have the California State University (CSU) system, offering robust Disability Services centers across its campuses. For instance, CSU Northridge has a notable Center on Disabilities, and CSU Long Beach offers a dedicated Autistic Scholars program that supports autism students in their academic and personal success.

Another noteworthy institution is Stanford University, hosting the Stanford Neurodiversity Project (SNP). The SNP looks to support neurodiverse students across various aspects of their university experience, like academic accommodations, peer mentorship, and job placements.

Always remember to reach out and ask questions about these services when considering a school. Knowing firsthand about the programs and support services each college provides can indeed be instrumental in your decision-making process. Remember to look for resources tailored to suit your specific needs, be it academic accommodations, social skills programs, or career placement services.

Lastly, start early! Each college has individual deadlines and procedures for applying for these resources. Starting the process early can prevent any unnecessary rush and ensure that you have the support you need right from the start of your college journey.

Good luck with your college search process!