What is autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in social interaction, communication, and sensory processing. These differences don't diminish your intelligence or capabilities; they simply mean your brain processes and interprets information in a unique way.
Understanding Your Challenges:
Here's how autism might impact your uni experience compared to neurotypical peers:
Social Interaction: Navigating the intricacies of social situations, making friends, and understanding unspoken cues can be challenging. Lectures, tutorials, and group projects can feel like social minefields.
Sensory Overload: Bright lights, loud noises, and crowded spaces can be overwhelming, leading to distraction and discomfort. The atrium, lecture rooms, and busy corridors might feel like sensory assault courses.
Communication: Expressing yourself verbally or in writing can be difficult. Finding clear and concise ways to articulate thoughts and feelings can be frustrating. Tutorials, debates, and essay writing might feel like uphill battles.
Routine & Structure: Deviating from routines or encountering unexpected changes can be unsettling. Exam timetables, schedule changes, and last-minute cancellations might throw your world into disarray.
Your Strengths: Embracing the Differences:
Autism presents challenges, but it also comes with unique strengths you can leverage in your studies:
Focus & Detail: You might excel at focusing deeply on topics of interest, delving into minute details and retaining intricate information. Lectures on your favourite subject? Bring it on!
Logic & Analysis: You may have a knack for logical thinking and problem-solving, approaching tasks analytically and breaking them down into manageable steps. Dissertation research, anyone?
Honesty & Directness: You likely communicate directly and honestly, expressing your thoughts and opinions with clarity. Group discussions, anyone?
Resilience & Determination: Overcoming challenges has likely fostered a strong work ethic and unwavering determination. You've got this!
The key to academic success with autism lies in understanding your needs and preferences, and finding strategies that work for you. Here are some tips:
Explore Specialist Support: If you are entitled to the Disabled Students’ Allowance, you may be eligible for additional one to one Specialist Study Skills Support. Ask your Disability Advisor or the Disability team (disabilityteam@derby.ac.uk) if this is something you can access.
Advocacy & Accommodations: Connect with support services, like the Disability or Student Support teams, to discuss your needs and access accommodations like extended time on exams, alternative assessment methods, or note-taking support. Remember, you have the right to thrive!
Structure & Predictability: Create clear schedules and routines, leaving room for flexibility where possible. Stick to familiar study spaces and plan for potential disruptions.
Sensory Management: Identify and manage sensory triggers. Use noise-cancelling headphones, earplugs, or fidget toys to cope with overwhelming environments. Experiment with lighting adjustments and find calming spaces on campus.
Communication Strategies: Prepare scripts for common social interactions, like introducing yourself or asking for clarification. Use communication aids like text-to-speech software or social stories. Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself!
Relaxation Techniques: Practice mindfulness exercises like deep breathing or meditation to manage stress and sensory overload. Find calming activities you enjoy, like listening to music or spending time in nature.
Technology to the Rescue: Use apps and tools for organisation, time management, and communication. Explore assistive technology options that support your specific needs. Remember, technology is your friend!
Seek Peer Support: Connect with other students with autism on campus or online, via the Union of Students or your own peer networks. Sharing experiences and learning from others can be invaluable. You're not alone!