I am passionate about enabling neurodivergent students to shift from negative to positive self-belief that triggers growth and life changes. Since 2007, I have worked in primary, secondary, and higher education settings to facilitate their study skills and independent learning, helping them develop new confidence in their identity and fulfil their potential. Having autistic family members has given me the means to connect and understand the struggles autistic students face in Higher Education.

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Transition to university is especially difficult for autistic students due to the sudden increase in independence, higher social and academic demands,  reduced access to personalised support, and autism stigma amongst staff and other students. With the increasing number of autistic university students transitioning into their first year, it is crucial that adequate access and appropriate supports are tailored to their needs.

 

In consultation with stakeholders, my PhD has been a journey, one that has been worthwhile and contributed to the field of autism research by theorising a transition to university framework for autistic students for future empirical and applied work.