For many of our students, high school graduation is not the end of their educational journey. We certainly have a lot more students who are recognized with autism now who are academically able to go on to secondary education. But how can we begin to help our students prepare for college, and what skills should we focus on? Today, our guest, Dr. Marc Ellison, shares some insight into this and more!

Dr. Marc Ellison is the executive director of the West Virginia Autism Training Center, located at Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Dr. Ellison has worked for almost 40 years to provide support to individuals diagnosed with autism, their families, educators, and caregivers. Dr. Ellison came to Marshall University full-time to lead the college support program, which was the first of its kind in the nation.

In this episode, Dr. Marc Ellison shares when to start preparing for college, the challenges students with ASD face in the college setting, what helps students succeed in college, and the importance of community.

04:41 - When to begin planning for the college transition

07:50 - What challenges students with ASD face in the college setting

15:00 - The skills and factors that have helped students with ASD succeed at Marshall University

18:42 - How he has created a community for students with autism on campus and the benefits of creating this community

23:59 - The importance of teachers anticipating student needs and having difficult conversations when needed

Show Notes: http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode217

Resources:

• Benchmarks of Successful College Supports
• Academic and Campus Accommodations That Foster Success
• Join the Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library
• Get more information about the Special Educator Academy
• Join the Free Facebook Group

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