Whats a young adult in Canada with Asperger's Syndrome to do after highschool? Any transitional programs?

Question

After high-school, are there programs that assist a young adult with Aspergers to handle a normal univeristy workload? Or should soemone with Aspergers just aim for vocational schools and colleges? Are there universities that cater for this type of disorder?

Answer 1

My daughter has this and did just fine in college. Grad school has been alittle harder. Usually people with Aspergers are highly intelligent but cannot socialize in a normal manner. I would simply find out what he's interested in and explore all the programs available at any college he wants to go to.

Answer 2

You could look at schools that have degrees in your interests, and don't just go by aptitude tests to decide if you should pursue it, but also see the school's success/retention  counselor.  You know like I do you can fly through the tests and LOOK apt for things you are not, so probably do something technical. You CAN handle a normal workload, but other things may affect how well you do it.  Like if you are a whiz at calculating, but not algebra, then it might take you several semesters to get through one upper level math class, if you do not have extra time or help.  Some people do not require accommodation, but most do....  Sitting in the class itself can be difficult if you are not merely focused on the work, but also on social interaction or if you get one professor who is more poetic than literal.  It would be good to study up on idioms and things "normal" people use. And maybe take an acting class or a light class to help relieve tension created by the other classes and such.  But you can do nontechnical stuff; it will just take longer or more work for you. Good luck!

Answer 3

There are many books on self-care and workbooks on social understanding. Check out the section in a library or comprehensive bookstore (like Barnes and Nobel) for Special Needs, or Asperger's Syndrome. It's an ever expanding section. The books ARE NOT cheap,but they are well worth it. They contain great information on the everyday things that challenge those with the Aspergian way of thinking. Also, remember, somethings in life are typically challenging, so don't always attribute difficulties to AS.

Most Universities aren't sticklers on attendance or timeliness, so that helps quite a bit. Plus, truly gifted professors will be more apt to identifiy with you, and even be inclinded to mentor you.

The lovely thing is that you pick your classes (you can go with a pre-program if you are trying for a certain degree) so each class is YOUR interest, thus making it WAY easier (and more edifing) than school as you know it now. Plus, socialbility in university is not as consuming as it is in high school.

Answer 4

These answers were great.  They are telling you that you need to advocate for yourself.  If you need help, you need to ask for it.  It's not like high school where everything is given to you.  You are an adult now.  So it is your responsibility.  If you don't want to be responsible, then go to a special school.  A special school will treat you like a child.  I think everyone should go to an inclusive school because you will have to learn to be part of society in the future.  But if you really can't handle it, I guess a special school will meet your needs and hopefully it will help you on being more successful in our society.

Answer 5

It depends on where you live. Look up whatever services may be available for people with Asperger's.