the podcast series
season 3—episodes 20–29
“The best way to learn is just from going out and doing something—talking to people, being a part of of an organization, or going to events. It’s not always going to be easy, but the only way to get better at anything is to keep doing it— and have experiences.”
—James
season 5—episodes 40–49
season 4—episodes 30–39
season 3—episodes 20–29
season 2—episodes 10–19
season 1—episodes 1–10
PODCAST EPISODE 29:
FTW: New study reveals how autistic college students define success
Data recently collected from over 400 college students on the spectrum shows that most feel protecting their mental health is nearly as important as getting good grades and graduating. The typical college goals are not so surprising, according to Professor Brett Nachman, an autism self-advocate and education researcher at the University of Arkansas. "But the findings about prioritizing mental health, finding friends, and avoiding burnout are significant. Students are saying success is important but not at the expense of their mental health." In the first wave of the study, Nachman's team, led by Dr. Brad Cox at Michigan State University, has collected data from students on the spectrum at over 100 colleges and universities around the country. It’s the largest data set provided by students on the spectrum to date. But it's not just academic. The team plans to use the data to help colleges and faculty understand what autistic students are looking for in their college experiences and how to help autistic students find success. One goal, Nachman says, is to help universities see the growing number of students with autism on campus as an opportunity, not an issue.
PODCAST EPISODE 28:
Going for his degree in Canada
Gerry Campbell is working his way towards a bachelor's degree at Lethbridge University in Alberta with wit and determination. A little more than a decade ago, when Gerry was in high school, Canadian students on the spectrum were segregated into special ed classes and left high school with a certificate, with no option for a diploma. But Gerry wanted more and enrolled first in Lethbridge College in Alberta where he could start chipping away at required courses for college entry to bring his basic skills in English and math up so he could find success in college. Along the way, professors have helped him with study strategies and even with the transition to a four-year university this fall. He has enjoyed a lot of academic success. Gerry is a huge history buff and a rugby player, he served on the student council, and he's a guy with a loom who has made dozens of peace and reconciliation scarves for indigenous classmates. Gerry has been on this path towards his bachelor's degree for about 8 years. He loves learning, the community, and sharing his story in hopes of inspiring others.
PODCAST EPISODE 27:
Your professors are learning more about students on the spectrum
Aubry Mintz teaches animation at Cal State Long Beach. He's great at supporting neurodiverse students, and if you've seen the documentary, Autism Goes to College, his voice and approach in this ep will be familiar. Among his colleagues, Aubry's been advocating for more awareness of how to best support neurodiverse students for years. Now he shares how his campus has grown its services, broadened approaches, and gone further to encourage every faculty member to have conversations with students about what would be helpful. As Aubry says, it's not all about pointing people towards the students' services office. It's about what teachers can do in their classrooms by getting to know their students better.
PODCAST EPISODE 26:
BACK TO SCHOOL WITH A FIFTH YEAR SENIOR
Jake G. is heading into his final year at Concordia College in Austin, TX after a very busy summer taking a class and doing a remote internship. Jake figured out early on in college that the best way for him to maintain his high GPA was to get a reduced class load accommodation. He's taken 10 credit units each semester, and that's made the workload manageable. Now as a fifth-year senior, he's taking a few more classes in his marketing major, continuing to pursue his music, and focusing on building a strong network to help him land a job after graduation. For everyone headed back to school this fall, Jake has a hack he's used that could be helpful: if possible, get a look at the class syllabus even before classes begin, and start studying. Summer is over.
PODCAST EPISODE 25:
PODCAST EPISODE 25:
PODCAST EPISODE 25:
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
For college students on the spectrum, it's hard to predict what might be challenging. Some folks are academically capable, feel comfortable with accomodations, and find social stuff difficult. Others may be easy with social interactions, but find it hard to manage time and keep classwork organized. Procrastination can create stress and anxiety. One way to get extra support is to find an OT. OTs are occupational therapists - trained to help anyone navigate their days by figuring out what's not working and collaborating with you to come up with strategies to make it easier. Karen Keptner is an OT and a professor of OT, and in this episode she talks with Katharine about what kinds of support OTs can provide, how to find one on or off campus, and how to pay for services with insurance.
For college students on the spectrum, it's hard to predict what might be challenging. Some folks are academically capable, feel comfortable with accomodations, and find social stuff difficult. Others may be easy with social interactions, but find it hard to manage time and keep classwork organized. Procrastination can create stress and anxiety. One way to get extra support is to find an OT. OTs are occupational therapists - trained to help anyone navigate their days by figuring out what's not working and collaborating with you to come up with strategies to make it easier. Karen Keptner is an OT and a professor of OT, and in this episode she talks with Katharine about what kinds of support OTs can provide, how to find one on or off campus, and how to pay for services with insurance.
For college students on the spectrum, it's hard to predict what might be challenging. Some folks are academically capable, feel comfortable with accomodations, and find social stuff difficult. Others may be easy with social interactions, but find it hard to manage time and keep classwork organized. Procrastination can create stress and anxiety. One way to get extra support is to find an OT. OTs are occupational therapists - trained to help anyone navigate their days by figuring out what's not working and collaborating with you to come up with strategies to make it easier. Karen Keptner is an OT and a professor of OT, and in this episode she talks with Katharine about what kinds of support OTs can provide, how to find one on or off campus, and how to pay for services with insurance.
PODCAST EPISODE 24:
PODCAST EPISODE 24:
PODCAST EPISODE 24:
Tony has landed. He's happy at St. Mary's
Tony has landed. He's happy at St. Mary's
Tony has landed. He's happy at St. Mary's
If you've been following Tony's college path, this episode will be a satisfying listen.
In short: He was admitted to St. Mary's College in Moraga, CA. and it feels good. He switched majors from Business to Econ. He's got an apartment. He cooks. Well, sometimes. He admits there might be a GrubHub addiction starting, due to a student discount. But mostly he has a lot to say about the accommodations at St. Mary's which have been great for him. So good that he wanted to bring Julie Scaff, Director of Student Disability Services on the podcast with him to talk about the peer student success mentors, internship opportunities and other supports the school offers to students on the spectrum, and others with learning differences. Hear how Tony navigated his way to the right college after a couple of false starts.
If you've been following Tony's college path, this episode will be a satisfying listen.
In short: He was admitted to St. Mary's College in Moraga, CA. and it feels good. He switched majors from Business to Econ. He's got an apartment. He cooks. Well, sometimes. He admits there might be a GrubHub addiction starting, due to a student discount. But mostly he has a lot to say about the accommodations at St. Mary's which have been great for him. So good that he wanted to bring Julie Scaff, Director of Student Disability Services on the podcast with him to talk about the peer student success mentors, internship opportunities and other supports the school offers to students on the spectrum, and others with learning differences. Hear how Tony navigated his way to the right college after a couple of false starts.
If you've been following Tony's college path, this episode will be a satisfying listen.
In short: He was admitted to St. Mary's College in Moraga, CA. and it feels good. He switched majors from Business to Econ. He's got an apartment. He cooks. Well, sometimes. He admits there might be a GrubHub addiction starting, due to a student discount. But mostly he has a lot to say about the accommodations at St. Mary's which have been great for him. So good that he wanted to bring Julie Scaff, Director of Student Disability Services on the podcast with him to talk about the peer student success mentors, internship opportunities and other supports the school offers to students on the spectrum, and others with learning differences. Hear how Tony navigated his way to the right college after a couple of false starts.
PODCAST EPISODE 23:
PODCAST EPISODE 23:
PODCAST EPISODE 23:
Academics, community + the deciding factor: A college aligned with my intentions
Academics, community + the deciding factor: A college aligned with my intentions
Academics, community + the deciding factor: A college aligned with my intentions
River was pretty clear about the kind of school that would work for them: Strong academics and a school community aligned with their intention to make a difference in the world. Also important: affinity and support groups for them as a student with autism who identifies as LGBTQ. With a short college list that grew -and later contracted, there were high hopes, some rejection, an Early Decision 2 application, a safety school that came through with a scholarship, and a final decision that feels like a great fit. One bit of advice they heard, but didn't take- Start on your personal statement essays during the summer. River talks that, and their whole high school senior year in the college application and decision process.
River was pretty clear about the kind of school that would work for them: Strong academics and a school community aligned with their intention to make a difference in the world. Also important: affinity and support groups for them as a student with autism who identifies as LGBTQ. With a short college list that grew -and later contracted, there were high hopes, some rejection, an Early Decision 2 application, a safety school that came through with a scholarship, and a final decision that feels like a great fit. One bit of advice they heard, but didn't take- Start on your personal statement essays during the summer. River talks that, and their whole high school senior year in the college application and decision process.
River was pretty clear about the kind of school that would work for them: Strong academics and a school community aligned with their intention to make a difference in the world. Also important: affinity and support groups for them as a student with autism who identifies as LGBTQ. With a short college list that grew -and later contracted, there were high hopes, some rejection, an Early Decision 2 application, a safety school that came through with a scholarship, and a final decision that feels like a great fit. One bit of advice they heard, but didn't take- Start on your personal statement essays during the summer. River talks that, and their whole high school senior year in the college application and decision process.
PODCAST EPISODE 22:
PODCAST EPISODE 22:
PODCAST EPISODE 22:
DUAL DIAGNOSIS On the spectrum, and deaf, Taylor, 22, leans in to college
DUAL DIAGNOSIS On the spectrum, and deaf, Taylor, 22, leans in to college
DUAL DIAGNOSIS On the spectrum, and deaf, Taylor, 22, leans in to college
Taylor aged out of school-based programs last summer. Finding a path to college has been challenging, so far. But her mom, Eraina Ferguson is determined. Taylor uses American Sign Language to communicate. Right now, she is working on life skills and soon starts a part-time job at Howdy's Homemade, an ice cream shop chain that intentionally trains and hires employees with disabilities. And all along Eraina and Taylor are keeping their sights set on a college experience when the time is right. Already Taylor has taken some online classes through Wake Tech Community College in North Carolina. Next, she may attend some classes in person, and eventually hopes to transfer to Gallaudet, a college for deaf students in Washington, D.C. Hear Eraina and Taylor explain their steps, and the inspiration they drew from the first screening of the documentary film Autism Goes to College.
Taylor aged out of school-based programs last summer. Finding a path to college has been challenging, so far. But her mom, Eraina Ferguson is determined. Taylor uses American Sign Language to communicate. Right now, she is working on life skills and soon starts a part-time job at Howdy's Homemade, an ice cream shop chain that intentionally trains and hires employees with disabilities. And all along Eraina and Taylor are keeping their sights set on a college experience when the time is right. Already Taylor has taken some online classes through Wake Tech Community College in North Carolina. Next, she may attend some classes in person, and eventually hopes to transfer to Gallaudet, a college for deaf students in Washington, D.C. Hear Eraina and Taylor explain their steps, and the inspiration they drew from the first screening of the documentary film Autism Goes to College.
Taylor aged out of school-based programs last summer. Finding a path to college has been challenging, so far. But her mom, Eraina Ferguson is determined. Taylor uses American Sign Language to communicate. Right now, she is working on life skills and soon starts a part-time job at Howdy's Homemade, an ice cream shop chain that intentionally trains and hires employees with disabilities. And all along Eraina and Taylor are keeping their sights set on a college experience when the time is right. Already Taylor has taken some online classes through Wake Tech Community College in North Carolina. Next, she may attend some classes in person, and eventually hopes to transfer to Gallaudet, a college for deaf students in Washington, D.C. Hear Eraina and Taylor explain their steps, and the inspiration they drew from the first screening of the documentary film Autism Goes to College.
PODCAST EPISODE 21:
PODCAST EPISODE 21:
PODCAST EPISODE 21:
My part time job prepared me for college
My part time job prepared me for college
My part time job prepared me for college
Dom Z. is a student at Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts. He’s a commuter student now and looking forward to moving into the dorms in the fall. He loves college and says he owes his college success so far to two ways he got himself ready: A semester at a community college, and his part-time job at Target. Dom shares that in the past he’d had a hard time controlling his emotions, but learning how to navigate co-workers, customers and his bosses was great practice for college life. Dom talks with Katharine about how his work experience led to social successes on campus, and his academic goals.
Dom Z. is a student at Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts. He’s a commuter student now and looking forward to moving into the dorms in the fall. He loves college and says he owes his college success so far to two ways he got himself ready: A semester at a community college, and his part-time job at Target. Dom shares that in the past he’d had a hard time controlling his emotions, but learning how to navigate co-workers, customers and his bosses was great practice for college life. Dom talks with Katharine about how his work experience led to social successes on campus, and his academic goals.
Dom Z. is a student at Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts. He’s a commuter student now and looking forward to moving into the dorms in the fall. He loves college and says he owes his college success so far to two ways he got himself ready: A semester at a community college, and his part-time job at Target. Dom shares that in the past he’d had a hard time controlling his emotions, but learning how to navigate co-workers, customers and his bosses was great practice for college life. Dom talks with Katharine about how his work experience led to social successes on campus, and his academic goals.
PODCAST EPISODE 20:
PODCAST EPISODE 20:
PODCAST EPISODE 20:
A PhD student on the spectrum studying neurodivergent young adults' varied paths to success
A PhD student on the spectrum studying neurodivergent young adults' varied paths to success
A PhD student on the spectrum studying neurodivergent young adults' varied paths to success
Looking back at her undergraduate experience, Katharine O'Brien says it's a lot easier, now, to understand how it was going. Overall she had a wonderful experience at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. Academics were challenging but in a good way. Social experiences were often challenging, too, but often in a not-so-good way. That's partly because Katharine didn't have an autism diagnosis until after she graduated from college, and never had the insight that she might need extra support- or the opportunity to ask for it. She graduated, worked in the medical field for a while, then decided to pivot from her original professional aspirations and go back to school for a master's degree at the Harvard School of Education. The experience changed Katharine's path in many ways, and in this episode, Katharine explains the decision to go back for more college, and eventually pursue a Ph.D. focused on the education, and post-school life of young adults on the spectrum. O'Brien says that so far, there are no maps for neurodivergent young adults to mark the way and milestones of success. At UCRiverside Katharine is researching these questions, and talks about her college experiences, and her work.
Looking back at her undergraduate experience, Katharine O'Brien says it's a lot easier, now, to understand how it was going. Overall she had a wonderful experience at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. Academics were challenging but in a good way. Social experiences were often challenging, too, but often in a not-so-good way. That's partly because Katharine didn't have an autism diagnosis until after she graduated from college, and never had the insight that she might need extra support- or the opportunity to ask for it. She graduated, worked in the medical field for a while, then decided to pivot from her original professional aspirations and go back to school for a master's degree at the Harvard School of Education. The experience changed Katharine's path in many ways, and in this episode, Katharine explains the decision to go back for more college, and eventually pursue a Ph.D. focused on the education, and post-school life of young adults on the spectrum. O'Brien says that so far, there are no maps for neurodivergent young adults to mark the way and milestones of success. At UCRiverside Katharine is researching these questions, and talks about her college experiences, and her work.
Looking back at her undergraduate experience, Katharine O'Brien says it's a lot easier, now, to understand how it was going. Overall she had a wonderful experience at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. Academics were challenging but in a good way. Social experiences were often challenging, too, but often in a not-so-good way. That's partly because Katharine didn't have an autism diagnosis until after she graduated from college, and never had the insight that she might need extra support- or the opportunity to ask for it. She graduated, worked in the medical field for a while, then decided to pivot from her original professional aspirations and go back to school for a master's degree at the Harvard School of Education. The experience changed Katharine's path in many ways, and in this episode, Katharine explains the decision to go back for more college, and eventually pursue a Ph.D. focused on the education, and post-school life of young adults on the spectrum. O'Brien says that so far, there are no maps for neurodivergent young adults to mark the way and milestones of success. At UCRiverside Katharine is researching these questions, and talks about her college experiences, and her work.
PODCAST EPISODE 29:
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
FTW: New study reveals how autistic college students define success
Data recently collected from over 400 college students on the spectrum shows that most feel protecting their mental health is often as important as getting good grades and graduating. The typical college goals are not so surprising, according to Professor Brett Ranon Nachman, an autism self-advocate and education researcher at the University of Arkansas. "But the findings about prioritizing mental health, finding friends, and avoiding burnout are significant. Students are saying success is important but not at the expense of their mental health." In the first wave of the study, Nachman's team, led by Dr. Brad Cox at Michigan State University, has collected data from students on the spectrum at over 100 colleges and universities around the country. It’s one of the largest data sets provided by students on the spectrum to date. But it's not just academic. The team plans to use the data to help colleges and faculty understand what autistic students are looking for in their college experiences and how to help autistic students find success. One goal, Nachman says, is to help universities see the growing number of students with autism on campus as an opportunity, not an issue.
PODCAST EPISODE 25:
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
For college students on the spectrum, it's hard to predict what might be challenging. Some folks are academically capable, feel comfortable with accomodations, and find social stuff difficult. Others may be easy with social interactions, but find it hard to manage time and keep classwork organized. Procrastination can create stress and anxiety. One way to get extra support is to find an OT. OTs are occupational therapists - trained to help anyone navigate their days by figuring out what's not working and collaborating with you to come up with strategies to make it easier. Karen Keptner is an OT and a professor of OT, and in this episode she talks with Katharine about what kinds of support OTs can provide, how to find one on or off campus, and how to pay for services with insurance.
PODCAST EPISODE 28:
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
Going for his degree in Canada
Gerry Campbell is working his way towards a bachelor's degree at Lethbridge University in Alberta with wit and determination. A little more than a decade ago, when Gerry was in high school, Canadian students on the spectrum were segregated into special ed classes and left high school with a certificate, with no option for a diploma. But Gerry wanted more and enrolled first in Lethbridge College in Alberta where he could start chipping away at required courses for college entry to bring his basic skills in English and math up so he could find success in college. Along the way, professors have helped him with study strategies and even with the transition to a four-year university this fall. He has enjoyed a lot of academic success. Gerry is a huge history buff and a rugby player, he served on the student council, and he's a guy with a loom who has made dozens of peace and reconciliation scarves for indigenous classmates. Gerry has been on this path towards his bachelor's degree for about 8 years. He loves learning, the community, and sharing his story in hopes of inspiring others.
PODCAST EPISODE 27:
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
Your professors are learning more about students on the spectrum
Aubry Mintz teaches animation at Cal State Long Beach. He's great at supporting neurodiverse students, and if you've seen the documentary, Autism Goes to College, his voice and approach in this ep will be familiar. Among his colleagues, Aubry's been advocating for more awareness of how to best support neurodiverse students for years. Now he shares how his campus has grown its services, broadened approaches, and gone further to encourage every faculty member to have conversations with students about what would be helpful. As Aubry says, it's not all about pointing people towards the students' services office. It's about what teachers can do in their classrooms by getting to know their students better.
PODCAST EPISODE 25:
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
What kind of supports should you seek? Accommodations? An OT? Both?
For college students on the spectrum, it's hard to predict what might be challenging. Some folks are academically capable, feel comfortable with accomodations, and find social stuff difficult. Others may be easy with social interactions, but find it hard to manage time and keep classwork organized. Procrastination can create stress and anxiety. One way to get extra support is to find an OT. OTs are occupational therapists - trained to help anyone navigate their days by figuring out what's not working and collaborating with you to come up with strategies to make it easier. Karen Keptner is an OT and a professor of OT, and in this episode she talks with Katharine about what kinds of support OTs can provide, how to find one on or off campus, and how to pay for services with insurance.
PODCAST EPISODE 24:
Tony has landed. He's happy at St. Mary's
Tony has landed. He's happy at St. Mary's
Tony has landed. He's happy at St. Mary's
If you've been following Tony's college path, this episode will be a satisfying listen.
In short: He was admitted to St. Mary's College in Moraga, CA. and it feels good. He switched majors from Business to Econ. He's got an apartment. He cooks. Well, sometimes. He admits there might be a GrubHub addiction starting, due to a student discount. But mostly he has a lot to say about the accommodations at St. Mary's which have been great for him. So good that he wanted to bring Julie Scaff, Director of Student Disability Services on the podcast with him to talk about the peer student success mentors, internship opportunities and other supports the school offers to students on the spectrum, and others with learning differences. Hear how Tony navigated his way to the right college after a couple of false starts.
PODCAST EPISODE 23:
Tony has landed. He's happy at St. Mary's
Tony has landed. He's happy at St. Mary's
Academics, community + the deciding factor: A college aligned with my intentions
River was pretty clear about the kind of school that would work for them: Strong academics and a school community aligned with their intention to make a difference in the world. Also important: affinity and support groups for them as a student with autism who identifies as LGBTQ. With a short college list that grew -and later contracted- there were high hopes, some rejection, an Early Decision 2 application, a safety school that came through with a scholarship, and a final decision that feels like a great fit. One bit of advice they heard, but didn't take- Start on your personal statement essays during the summer. River talks about that, and their whole high school senior year in the college application and decision process.
PODCAST EPISODE 22:
DUAL DIAGNOSIS On the spectrum, and deaf, Taylor, 22, leans in to college
DUAL DIAGNOSIS On the spectrum, and deaf, Taylor, 22, leans in to college
DUAL DIAGNOSIS On the spectrum, and deaf, Taylor, 22, leans in to college
Taylor aged out of school-based programs last summer. Finding a path to college has been challenging, so far. But her mom, Eraina Ferguson is determined. Taylor uses American Sign Language to communicate. Right now, she is working on life skills and soon starts a part-time job at Howdy's Homemade, an ice cream shop chain that intentionally trains and hires employees with disabilities. And all along Eraina and Taylor are keeping their sights set on a college experience when the time is right. Already Taylor has taken some online classes through Wake Tech Community College in North Carolina. Next, she may attend some classes in person, and eventually hopes to transfer to Gallaudet, a college for deaf students in Washington, D.C. Hear Eraina and Taylor explain their steps, and the inspiration they drew from the first screening of the documentary film Autism Goes to College.
PODCAST EPISODE 21:
My part time job prepared me for college
My part time job prepared me for college
My part time job prepared me for college
Dom Z. is a student at Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts. He’s a commuter student now and looking forward to moving into the dorms in the fall. He loves college and says he owes his college success so far to two ways he got himself ready: A semester at a community college, and his part-time job at Target. Dom shares that in the past he’d had a hard time controlling his emotions, but learning how to navigate co-workers, customers and his bosses was great practice for college life. Dom talks with Katharine about how his work experience led to social successes on campus, and his academic goals.
PODCAST EPISODE 20:
A PhD student on the spectrum studying neurodivergent young adults' varied paths to success
A PhD student on the spectrum studying neurodivergent young adults' varied paths to success
A PhD student on the spectrum studying neurodivergent young adults' varied paths to success
Looking back at her undergraduate experience, Katharine O'Brien says it's a lot easier, now, to understand how it was going. Overall she had a wonderful experience at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. Academics were challenging but in a good way. Social experiences were often challenging, too, but often in a not-so-good way. That's partly because Katharine didn't have an autism diagnosis until after she graduated from college, and never had the insight that she might need extra support- or the opportunity to ask for it. She graduated, worked in the medical field for a while, then decided to pivot from her original professional aspirations and go back to school for a master's degree at the Harvard School of Education. The experience changed Katharine's path in many ways, and in this episode, Katharine explains the decision to go back for more college, and eventually pursue a Ph.D. focused on the education, and post-school life of young adults on the spectrum. O'Brien says that so far, there are no maps for neurodivergent young adults to mark the way and milestones of success. At UCRiverside Katharine is researching these questions, and talks about her college experiences, and her work.