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Transitioning to University

LaLiseuse

My adult child has a place at University but has deferred for two years in a row due to not feeling ready to go or to live away from home. They definitely need some support but I do not know what specifically to ask for, either from the University itself or from any other source of support. Please advise! Thank you,

Parents

  • I would suggest asking the university what support they could offer for autistic students, and if they could help in between.
    You could then look into any other support that's available, the NAS might be able to help with that.

    It can be daunting when thinking about Uni, I had the chance for a sponsored placement at my first job, but rejected it outright because of difficulties I had with college and working. Kind of regret it as it would have been better to have faced it and see how I got on, but it may have been a car crashing waiting to happen.

    Its different times now though, Uni's are much more aware and supportive (though not always good at it, from what I've read), and also there are ways to reduce anxieties, build confidence, and learn to cope independently - such as 'dry runs' to the Uni, get used to going there, and what its like so its not a shock on day 1, and if the Uni can let them sit in on lectures then they could experience that.  Also, help them be more independent at home - cooking, shopping, managing money, cleaning, etc.  May also be local support services for independence skills, have at look online or maybe ask social services.  Local disability charities might also help with independence skills.

    Two years provides enough time to develop, but also too much time to think/worry so important to manage that side of it.

  • in reply to Autimator

    Thank you, yes. I think that the 2 years has shown us that they're not likely to ever be ready to live independently without some degree of support. I have previously tried to speak to the university but they were completely useless and clueless. I don't know if I just need to keep on at them until I find somebody who does know and can help.

  • in reply to LaLiseuse

    I have seen on twitter autistic students commenting about their Uni support, some great, some ok, some bad.  

    There is always Open University, study at home and online - though may not offer the degree they want to study towards.  They offer academic support I know, but what means for someone with autism I don't know.

  • in reply to LaLiseuse

    Art? How wonderful. I really hope they manage to make it happen - I studied Art and I would have hated to have missed out on that. 

  • in reply to Autimator

    Yes, the subject they want to study is Art. There is an Art degree I think with the OU but it wouldn't be quite the same.

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