Transitioning to College

As a young adult, thinking about the future and transitioning to college post high school can be very overwhelming and come with a variety of emotions, challenges, and achievements. In order to be successful, it is important to understand the process of applying for and being accepted to college, as well as being familiar with the many new transitions (increased social activities, academic standards, and responsibilities) that will inevitably occur.    

Applying For College, Financial Aid, and Housing

The first step to beginning the college application process is to research options for schools that interest you. There are a variety of things to consider during this time, including what you think you might want to major in, what accommodations the school has to offer, the physical location of the campus, the campus values, the cost, etc. It can be helpful to pinpoint one thing that is extremely important to you and start searching based on that. For example, if you knew you wanted to be less than an hour away from your hometown, then looking at campuses in the hour range and exploring what they have to offer would be beneficial. Once you have pinpointed a few schools to apply to, submitting an application and reaching out to college admissions offices to discuss any questions you may have or to connect with staff on campus.

After you are accepted into and decide on a school, the next steps are usually to apply for financial aid and housing. Most colleges have options for both federal and private loans that can assist you with making college more affordable. Most colleges also have campus housing and will walk you through the process of applying for this housing. 

Social Experiences

For a lot of students, college is the first opportunity to live without parents. This typically means there is less structure in general, but more responsibilities. Living alone or with a roommate for the first time can be both scary and exciting. Learning how to communicate with others and being respectful of their space, as well as cleaning up after yourself, can be very beneficial for having a positive relationship with your roommate. Additionally, most dorm buildings have an R.A. (residents assistant) that is available to assist you with getting along with your roommates. When thinking about the space that you are living in, it can also be beneficial to purchase furniture and other “dorm essentials” that are functional and promote an organized space, since dorm rooms are often small. If you are able to move in early, this would also give you time to get familiar with the space, which can help you feel comfortable in the new environment before classes begin.

Academic Experiences

There is also a lot to consider when thinking about the academic space that you will be participating in. It can be helpful to be aware of your campus’s academic options and accommodations for classes before choosing a college. The ADA requires that reasonable requested accommodations be put in place if you are a neurodivergent student, so discussing this with a college counselor prior to beginning college can be helpful. Some schools have mentor support programs that you can connect with in order to gain insight from someone that is actually attending the college, which can also be beneficial. 

Quick Tips & Tricks

• Food: This may also be the first time that you are on your own for preparing or purchasing your own meals. College campuses have meal plans and dining halls, so you will have support if you choose to purchase a meal plan. However, it can still be beneficial to have non perishable snacks in your rooms in situations when the dining hall is not open. If possible, you can also plan ahead what meals and snacks you will be having throughout the week, which is especially helpful if you are busy with classes.  

• Time management: Think about the strategies you have used in the past for organization and time management. What things were helpful for you? Have you tried any strategies that weren’t helpful for you in the past? The tasks you need to complete might look slightly different in college, but your brain still works the same.
• Accommodations: Inquire about accommodations prior to starting the semester. Set yourself up to be successful and work with your college to find programs that work for you. Utilize the supportive people you have used thus far to help connect you with beneficial services.  
• Fidgets: Don’t be afraid to utilize your favorite fidgets in class! If you feel comfortable, communicate with your professor prior about the things that are helpful for you. 
• Making friends: Join an organization or club of some kind. This is a great way to make friends with people that you already have at least one thing in common with. Plus, you can build friendships without having to engage in too much small talk, since the organization will prepare and plan events!
• Learn the campus: Be on campus as much as you can prior to the semester; if not possible, look online for a map of your campus or use google maps to “walk through” your campus. This may help decrease the anxiety that comes along with navigating a new space. 
• Gather information: Look on youtube for videos specific to your college or just general information about what to expect and what to bring. 

References

Dwyer, P., Mineo, E., Mifsud, K., Lindholm, C., Gurba, A., & Waisman, T. C. (2022). Building neurodiversity-inclusive postsecondary campuses: Recommendations for leaders in higher education. Autism in Adulthood.

Goldrick-Rab, S., Carter, D. F., & Wagner, R. W. (2007). What higher education has to say about the transition to college. Teachers College Record, 109(10), 2444-2481.

Kuder, S. J., Accardo, A., & Woodruff, J. (2021). College Success for Students on the Autism Spectrum: A Neurodiversity Perspective. Stylus Publishing, LLC.

Shaver, P., Furman, W., & Buhrmester, D. (1985). Transition to college: Network changes, social skills, and loneliness.