First Class Support for College Students on the Autism Spectrum: Practical Advice for College Counselors and Educators

College students with autism can face many difficulties during the transition from high school to further education and beyond. Highlighting the various everyday issues that may arise, this book shares practical advice for supporting students on the autism spectrum and helping them to succeed not only academically, but also socially and emotionally.

From supporting students with their relationships, to dealing with anxiety and managing independent living, this book covers a breadth of topics. It considers the impact of teaching expectations in higher learning on general adult life, and how to counsel students with autism on academic issues. The author also examines his many years of experience as a community college counselor, sharing the mistakes he has made and the lessons learned, to outline what makes a good counselor and how to take specific steps to ensure success for students with autism in all aspects of college life.

Dr. Michael Duggan, LCPC, CRC, is a Professor and a Counselor for Students with Disabilities at College of DuPage (COD), where he is well known for his expertise and his passion for empowering students with disabilities. In his twelve years at COD he has helped establish the Vocational Skills Program, a program for students with developmental disabilities, and Autismerica, a social/support group for students on the autism spectrum. He has also been awarded COD's Outstanding Divisional Faculty of the Year, Outstanding Academic Advisor of the Year, and Outstanding Club Advisor of the Year for his work on Autismerica. Before coming to COD, he directed the second largest college Disability Services program in Oregon at Chemeketa Community College and was elected as President of the Oregon Association of Higher Education and Disability (ORAHEAD), advocating for equality and improved services for college students with disabilities.