TRANSITIONING STUDENTS ON THE SPECTRUM

FROM COLLEGE TO WORK: THE FINAL STEP

FOR THE BUDDING PROFESSIONAL

S H A N N O N M U R P H Y M A N D A D I

A R I Z O N A S T A T E U N I V E R S I T Y

CHALLENGES TRANSITIONING FROM COLLEGE TO WORK FOR A STUDENT ON THE SPECTRUM

• Preparing a resume • Being aware of appropriate

dress • Being aware of appropriate

social norms in an interview setting

• Planning for potential triggers that may come up during an interview

OVERVIEW OF ASD CLASS: AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER HIGHER ED• Originally created by Garret Westlake • Designed to provide support and resources

to students with spectrum disorders• Focus on social skills pertaining to

university campus life• Focus on appropriate communication with

faculty• Developing self advocacy skills • Ideal platform to discuss transitioning to

career

PREPARING A RESUME

• Often resumes were either far too brief or far too lengthy

• Discussed expanding • Explored differences between

highlighting experience and lying

APPROPRIATE PRESENTATION

• Appropriate clothing and personal hygiene

• Shaking hands • Eye contact • Keeping answers on

topic

POTENTIAL TRIGGERS

• Location of interview• Sensitivity to lighting or

temperature• Office layout

ADVANTAGES TO HIRING AN EMPLOYEE ON THE SPECTRUM

•Often works well in a structured environment •Works well alone on independent projects•Will be committed to seeing a project through to successful completion

SHOWCASING POSITIVE QUALITIES

• Disclosure is a personal choice • Without disclosing diagnosis, an

individual can highlight strengths

QUESTIONS AND/OR COMMENTS