College Living Experience students receive the support they need to make – and be – a friend. As a college program for students with Asperger’s Syndrome, autism, ADD and learning disabilities, CLE provides opportunities for special needs students to become comfortable in social situations. These encounters lead students with special needs to develop appropriate, fulfilling relationships with peers and adults, and set the stage for future encounters that are successful and satisfying.
Professional Approach
Social skills support includes a weekly group led by the staff psychologist in which students talk about issues such as stress management, coping skills and other topics relevant to their peer group of special needs students making a college or adult transition. Students also meet regularly with their CLE case manager to talk about their progress, assess their independence and make the most of the resources available to students with Asperger’s, autism and learning disabilities. Additionally, a CLE mentor encourages friendly participation in activities that foster interaction among students with Asperger’s, autism, ADD and learning disabilities. Loosely structured social skills groups revolve around student interests such as bike riding, dinner and trips to the gym, while specially planned outings and events vary from trips to see a musical or an art exhibit, to participating in local festivals or a fishing trip. Social skills development is an integral part of a student’s successful transition through college and into adulthood.
Personal Freedom
Students experience social life off campus, too, by participating in outings and events with CLE staff and peers. Students with special needs shop, go to movies and eat out. They bike, rock climb and ski. At CLE, special needs students participate in typical activities all college students enjoy – and they develop the social skills to help them establish lasting, rewarding relationships with new-found confidence.