As summer draws to a close, it’s time to start your first semester of college. Hopefully, you’re looking forward to it, although you may be a little scared and even very nervous, especially if you’re autistic.
Autistic people often love change and the excitement that comes with it, but unexpected or uncontrolled change can really throw us off track. And that’s often what college is – unpredictable.
Many universities offer tailored support packages to their autistic students, such as more choice in accommodation, guaranteed accommodation in the second and third years, specialist one-to-one tutors for study techniques and additional counselling sessions. However, every university is different. Additional support is available to autistic students through opportunities such as the Disabled Student Allowance in the UK.
My new book, University: The Austistic Guide, is about the whole autistic student experience, from applying to moving in, studying and graduating. Here are five things you can do to ease your way into student life if you’re new to university and you’re autistic.
1. Move in early
If possible, arrive at your accommodation as early as possible. This will give you a little more time to get used to your new surroundings and familiarise yourself with key places like the shops and the library. It might even help you get the best shelves in your new kitchen.
Most universities allow students to move in early, or even actively encourage autistic students to do so. You can contact the university in advance and ask if you can move in a few days early to give you time to settle in.
2. Don’t bring too much stuff
Many students bring things to college that they will never use. Some prime examples are ironing boards, irons, and expensive kitchen appliances. There is no need to bring all of these things, especially when space is at a premium in most student dorms. In fact, it helps if all of the things you bring fit in a car and still have room for you in it.
There are some essentials you should bring with you, such as bedding, a laundry basket, and basic kitchen utensils.
But of course every student is different and what is important to one may not be so important to another. However, always take toilet paper with you because nothing is worse than getting out of a hot car after a long drive and not having any toilet paper or soap in your new bathroom.
3. Get to know other autistic people
Research shows that neurodiverse people often get along well with other neurodiverse people.
So, meeting others who are in a similar situation to you will help you feel less alone. You can also share similar experiences, such as feeling overwhelmed in your new surroundings.
Many universities have clubs or networks for neurodiverse or disabled students. These are a great way to meet other people. I also recommend joining clubs and societies for your interests, sports and hobbies. You will probably meet students there who you get along well with.
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4. Don’t expect to find your “friends for life” right away
Orientation week can be a whirlwind of experiences and emotions. Students can quickly become very close to the people they live with. Shared conversations and evenings can be a great bonding experience and a chance to get to know the people you will be living with next year.
But remember that this is a very small portion of the university population. It’s unlikely that you’ll find your best friends among the six to ten people living in the same accommodation as you. If you don’t immediately get on with these people in your first few days, weeks, or even semesters at university, that doesn’t mean you’ll never find “your” people. They’re out there, but you may have to look further than the end of your hall of residence.
5. Stay in touch with home
University can feel like you’re miles away from home, and that distance can sometimes make you feel isolated. Stay in touch with someone from home, whether it’s your family, guardian or an old friend. This will help you feel less alone and remind you where you came from.
You may find yourself drifting away from your school friends. This is normal as you all discover your new life, and you may not want to stay in touch if they remind you of a less happy time in your life. But try to stay in touch with someone who isn’t at your university, as this will help make the world seem a little smaller.
