What kind of jobs would be available for an autistic student that has a vast knowledge of space?

Question

I have a student that is on the asbergers spectrum. He is quite high functioning in terms of his ability to remember data - especially that which relates to space and history. Can anyone suggest some occupations that would allow him to live a fulfilling life? Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

I would suggest a tour guide or worker at a museum or planetarium. Some museums hire people with special needs to give tours and do other tasks at the museum. You could call a local museum or planetarium, and inquire if it would be possible for him to volunteer a few hours a week helping visitors, giving tours, cleaning, etc. This would give him an idea of what is available and if he enjoys it. If it is something he enjoys, the two of you can explore his available options.

Answer 2

This is a job for the rehabilitation commission in your state.  Not only do students with special needs require lots of time, but they may run into highly stressful situations that you and I do not consider stressful.  Getting him connected to the right agencies in your community is the best send-off his parents will appreciate from you.

Answer 3

I actually heard these people are genius and can be very talented in some area. Microsoft hires people with autism/asbergers. I have a co-worker who is not very good at communicating with other people he works with but he is so talented in coding software.

Answer 4

grocery bagger

Answer 5

Investment banking . . . financial model making.  That's what my husband does . . . accounting is not a field comprised of people with great social skills.  You can get your mba without social interaction . . . My brother does cadcam rocket design . . . another high pay low social skills type of situation

Answer 6

I think that working in a museum or planitarium is a great suggestion. I don't know much about this student's skill levels or college plans, but I wouldn't rule out working for NASA, or as a college professor in astronomy or space science. If the student is skilled at writing, he might also consider writing for a space or astronomy magazine or website. He might be able to do this freelance, and work from home, which he might enjoy.

There is a great book that lists employment strategies, as well as specific job recommendations for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome: "Developing Talents: Careers for Individuals with Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism" by Temple Grandin, Kate Duffy, and Tony Attwood

Here are some other resources that I hope will be helpful:

Website of Tony Attwood (a leading authority on Asperger's Syndrome) - http://www.tonyattwood.com.au/

"The Discovery of 'Aspie' Criteria" by Carol Gray and Tony Attwood - http://www.thegraycenter.org/sectionsdet...

"Positively Autism" (Free newsletter and printable lessons/activities. The link is to the issue on Asperger's and Employment) - http://www.positivelyautism.com/volume2i...