COLLEGE COUNSELING FOR NEURODIVERGENT LEARNERS:
ADHD, ASD, social anxiety, 2e/twice exceptional, etc.
As we walk your student through the college application process we'll teach the executive functioning skills needed to plan and organize a multi-step task with an eye on deadlines and time management.
We'll be their safety net as they get ready to take a step toward higher education and increased independence.
SKILLS ADDRESSED, INCLUDE:
TIER 1: Until you get in
Making and using a checklist based on each step of the application process
Researching the 'right fit' college search based on region, size, location, support systems, majors, and offerings
Creating a balanced list of 'reach', 'target', and 'likely' schools. (Hint: the ideal number is a max of 10).
Setting up virtual and on-campus visits.
Keeping track of each school's pros/cons, requirements, deadlines, unique features, etc.
Accessing accommodations for the SAT and/or ACT
Writing college essay(s) (i.e. good topics, brainstorming, free-writing, editing, and proofreading
Requesting letters of recommendation and providing teachers and counselors with the information needed to write outstanding recommendations
Filling out and submitting the Common App with a great activities section
Navigating Naviance or Scoir, if applicable
Understanding NCAA eligibililty and clearing houses, as well as how to best communicate with coaches, if applicable
Filing with FASFA and obtaining financial aid
Holy cow! You got in: Determining the best choice of school for you
TIER 2: Until you finish your first year at school
Everything in Tier One, PLUS:
What to expect with freshman orientation and why it's a good idea to attend
Understanding FERPA and the accommodation process.
Teaching the importance of checking your college email account regularly.
Outlining a course of study that work for each individual student.
- Guess what? Not all students can, or should, take a full course load every semester.
Creating an academic plan so that students can visualize requirements, along with activities, majors, minors, study abroad experiences, jobs, sports, extra-curriculars, sleep, and nutrition.
Normalizing that it's OK to change majors! Support students in what they need in order to make any changes efficiently without losing too much time.
Helping students choose best fits in majors and careers.
TIER 3: Until you're ready to consider internships and careers after graduation.
Everything in Tier 1 and 2, PLUS:
1-2 formal check-ins a year from Sophomore-Senior year to support academic advising and ensure students are on track.
Discuss relevance of summer and/or winter classes to help alleviate course loads during the regular semesters.
Help with applying for scholarships and opportunities depending on majors, college, or university.
Assist students with internships and/or career support and planning
Encourage experiential learning and research.
Continue to support students in how to advocate for themselves with professors, peer mentors, TAs, deans, etc.