Welcome back to Unmasking: An Autism Story! If you’re new here, welcome to the journey where we unmask the mysteries of autism. This column last appeared in Fall 2023, and while the previous edition was a fantastic journey, I’ve learned much more and am eager to continue sharing. If interested, read the past articles to learn more!
As a new cohort of Ducks joins our campus, reflecting on my initial days at Castle Point feels fitting. Transitioning from high school to college—or from summer break back into the semester—can be stressful for all students. First-year students find themselves in a completely new environment, often away from their parents or guardians for the first time. Despite Stevens’s excellent orientation, the stress of starting college is a significant part of this life stage. However, for individuals with autism, the challenges can be even more stressful.
For those with autism, moving into college introduces an additional layer of stress. Many individuals with autism experience heightened anxiety during periods of change. Routines offer a sense of planning, stability, and familiarity, but starting at college can disrupt the stability they rely on. I participated in the Pre-Orientation program, which gave me a few extra days before the other 1,000 first-year students arrived. Even with these additional days and the fantastic support from my RA, Peer Leader, and other staff members, there were times when I felt overwhelmed. I had to figure out new systems for laundry, meal times, and navigating shared spaces like the bathroom. Despite the support and having a great time, the transition was undeniably challenging.
Another significant stressor in the college experience is building a social network—finding friends, study groups, lab partners, and all the interpersonal relationships essential for a balanced college life. Making these personal connections involves navigating conversations filled with social cues, body language, and pop culture references. For individuals with autism, these interactions can seem like a daunting and confusing mess. While neurotypical individuals can understand this web of references and nonverbality, individuals with autism often struggle, making the challenge of creating new relationships especially difficult. I entered college with friends I had known for nearly a decade and had spent years developing those connections. When I arrived at Stevens, I struggled as friend groups and cliques formed around me, often appearing out of nowhere as I struggled to understand the social norms at play. It took me a few weeks to find a group I felt comfortable with, and even then, I didn’t fully settle in until near the end of my first semester.
Although starting college can be particularly stressful for individuals with autism (and I was genuinely terrified during my initial days at Stevens), I am deeply grateful for the experience. Learning to navigate the rapidly changing college environment, transitioning from long-known friends to an entirely new social landscape, and managing the chaos of beginning college life has been invaluable. For those who are struggling with these changes, whether or not you have autism, remember: IT WILL BE OKAY! Change can be frightening, but your new life will eventually become routine. So, settle into your new home for the next 14 academic weeks and join me as we continue our journey to unmask the mysteries of autism.
