In this informative episode, we take a look at college for students with disabilities. Oftentimes, we focus our energy on children with learning differences when they are young, but what happens when students reach young adulthood and express a desire to attend college? Are they ready? What does ready mean?

Dr. Eric Endlich is today's guest and he offers key strategies and mindsets that can help set students up for success. He has said that students with disabilities may have tremendous potential as well as exceptional needs but to fulfill that potential in college, they need to be sufficiently prepared. Dr. Endlich also shares that it is never too early and it is never too late to start working on skills that prepare students for higher education.

Show Notes:

[2:42] - We spend a lot of time ensuring that students get the support they need when they are young, but there comes a time when students may want to go to college and lack preparation.

[4:01] - Dr. Endlich helps students find colleges that meet their needs and also helps college-bound students complete the application process.

[5:35] - There are a lot of things that Dr. Endlich looks at regarding skills that ensure independence.

[6:56] - Individuals with the same diagnosis have different needs and the college selection process is very important.

[8:14] - Graduation rates are lower for students with learning differences.

[9:16] - It is important to not only consider the colleges that students can get into, but also colleges where students can be successful and finish their program.

[10:02] - Parents and students should not wait until senior year in high school to ask questions and should consider what things their child can do independently.

[12:25] - Academic coaching is available at some colleges.

[13:34] - When should you begin working on skills needed for independence? Dr. Endlich says it is never too early and never too late.

[15:04] - Executive functioning and adaptive living skills are things that can be asked about. There may be support available.

[16:30] - Community colleges are excellent at providing study and financial skills courses and many school districts offer dual enrollment with community colleges.

[18:32] - Self-awareness comes first. Students need to know what they are good at and what their deficits are.

[20:21] - If they have self-awareness and can then self-advocate, students are on their way to success.

[21:48] - In most colleges, it is up to the student to approach the professors with their list of accommodations.

[23:21] - In many cases, students have not yet had to solve their own problems.

[25:44] - Dr. Endlich was involved with a film called Autism Goes to College and describes some of his students on the panel.

[27:55] - Obsessions or special interests seen in autism may lead to a career.

[29:27] - It is so important for students to find their community. If they get into a college and are unable to make friends there, they will often want to leave.

About Our Guest:

Eric Endlich, Ph.D., clinical psychologist and founder of Top College Consultants®, helps neurodivergent students transition to college. Dr. Endlich is on the Learning Differences/Neurodiversity Committee and Diversity/Equity/Inclusion Committee of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, and has been awarded the "Making a Difference" award by the IECA. He co-manages a 2,400-member Facebook group, Parents of College Bound Students with Learning Disabilities, ADHD and ASD. A professional writer and national presenter, he has been interviewed by Forbes, Business Insider, CollegeXpress, College Confidential and U.S. News & World Report.

Connect with Eric Endlich, Ph.D.:

• Top College Consultants Website
• (617) 515-3568
• Parents of College Bound Students with Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and ASD Facebook Group

Links and Related Resources:

• Episode 15: From High School to College: Steps to Success for Students with Disabilities with Elizabeth C. Hamblet
• Episode 47: Helping Students Transition to Adulthood with Dr. Gwennyth Palafox

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The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.