Back to School: Autistic Students Get Help Navigating College Life

When Dan Hackett started college, he didn’t make the grades he knew he could.

Hackett, who has Asperger’s syndrome, found at the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh that some of his symptoms were holding him back. He had difficulty organizing his time and managing assignments.

“I always knew I could do better,” said Hackett.

His parents tried to help, but he wasn’t comfortable with them intervening at college. He was relieved to discover Achieving in Higher Education with Autism/Developmental Disabilities, a group that helps college students like him.

After contracting with AHEADD, Hackett’s grade point average increased from 1.5 to 3.6.

“They kept me on track,” says the now 21-year-old political science major. “They helped me manage my time.”

Many students with Asperger’s or other autism-like disorders face new challenges in a college setting. The syndrome hampers communication and social skills, so along with difficulties staying on top of their studies, these students may struggle with making friends and living more independently. They also may be more reluctant to ask for help.