My Top Tips for Autistic University Students
Pictured above: Grace Lawther
University is often seen as an exciting new chapter, full of possibilities. But as a neurodivergent student, the journey to higher education can come with additional challenges. For me, it was a mix of excitement, uncertainty, and a lot of trial and error. That’s why I want to share my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned along the way, in the hope that they might help others on a similar path.
Finding the Right Course
When choosing my course, I really wanted something I knew I would enjoy. My autism means that I find it hard to motivate myself without having a real interest first. Luckily, psychology, sociology and education modules have been really engaging. This has made it easier for me to attend lectures, study, and complete my assignments. I have also noticed that a lot of my course links to my advocacy work for autistic individuals, which has fuelled my goals in this area.
Navigating The Uni Social Life
Getting an education is just part of the university experience. Another important element is forging friendships. Before starting everyone will tell you to join societies – but it really is the best advice! This is where I have met the most like-minded people as well as keeping me active and out of my flat. It helps you to meet people outside of your courses and fill up your evenings when you need a break from studying.
My Top Tips for Neurodivergent Students
Transitioning to university can be challenging for everybody, especially for autistic students. It is often a time of a lot of change, which while worrying is also super exciting! Here are some of my top tips for autistic students:
- Home comforts
University is often people’s first experience of moving out and it can be quite nerve-wracking. Bringing home comforts with you, whether that be photos, a blanket, some toys or even your favourite plate, can help tackle some of the nerves and homesickness. The more special interest related things the better!
- Leave your past experiences behind
A lot of autistic young people I talk to have struggled at school, and I know first-hand how hard this is. Whilst I do believe that all your experiences shape you, it is important to remember that they do not define you. I endured a lot of trauma before starting university, but that has not dictated how my experience has been. University is different from school in all the best ways. Use the fresh start as a chance to shape your life how you want it.
- Spend time with people
For autistic people, socialising can be draining. It often seems like the easiest thing to do is to avoid people, but that is not good for your mental health. I have found that my best days are when I am spending time with my friends. Although it can sometimes be hard pushing myself, I always feel better afterwards.
- Spend time alone
That said, remember that socialising can be exhausting. It is important to take time for yourself, especially if you are masking a lot. I love to have a self-care night; with my favourite TV show, some nice food and crafts to relax with. For me, this is the best way to unwind after a full-on day with people. Find out what works for you!
- Accept that there will be hard times
As I mentioned above, university is a challenging time. A lot of the time it can be my expectations that trip me up, so I find it useful to remember that it will not be smooth sailing. Thought this might seem negative, it helps me to keep calm when things go wrong and to not catastrophise. There will be ups and downs – that is life!
- Do it your way
Finally, do university the way you want to. This is, n my opinion, the most important tip. If you spend your time comparing yourself to your non-autistic peers, it will only bring you down. There are plenty of things I do differently than all my friends. My parents visit more often; I see my autism mentor; I avoid situations which will only stress me out.
Please remember that all this advice is from my own experiences. All autistic people are different and so there may be different things that work for you.
Being neurodivergent at university comes with its challenges, but it’s also an opportunity to grow, learn, and find a way of working that suits you. Everyone’s journey is different, and that’s okay. If I think back to September, I would not have thought I would have been this successful in my first semester. Success for me is not simply academic, but also about my independence, wellbeing and the social side of things.
I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has helped me in this journey. I am very proud of myself and there a so many people I could not have done it without.
