PHILADELPHIA (July 12, 2010) — Saint Joseph's University's Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support is taking steps to help students with Asperger's syndrome or high-functioning Autism find their way to college (and not just college at SJU). The Kinney Center seeks to be a national model for assisting students with Autism at the college level.

On July 27 and 28, using the Saint Joseph’s University campus as a model, the Kinney Center will host a college-bound retreat designed to provide teens with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) a comprehensive look at higher education. In addition to identifying which schools are successfully supporting those with ASD, attendees will also learn about living away from home, choosing an area of study and using social skills to navigate a college campus and manage relationships. A presentation and discussion of college life through the eyes of a student with ASD will also be offered.

“Deciding to pursue higher education and choosing a school are major decisions for any young adult and their family, and for those with Asperger’s or Autism there is additional stress,” said Michelle Rowe, Ph.D., executive director of the Kinney Center. “Many individuals with Asperger’s syndrome or high-functioning Autism can achieve great success, but most require more individualized supports to reach their goals.  Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) who are interested in attending college should begin taking steps toward those goals as early as possible.”

According to Rowe, the transition into college can be particularly difficult for individuals with Asperger’s syndrome and/or high-functioning Autism and their parents. University environments are substantially different from high school.  By attending the college-bound retreat, these individuals will learn about academic and social supports designed to help them achieve success in the classroom and a competitive workforce.

The cost is $200. For more information, contact the Kinney Center at 610-660-2170 or kinneyautism@sju.edu.