College Connections: Social & Relationship Skills Group

Sundays | October 18-December 20 (10 weeks)
6:00 PM-7:30 PM EST | Virtual (Zoom links will be provided closer to program start date)
$500 per participant

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Using PEERS-informed strategies, students will learn concrete, practical approaches to common social situations and have opportunities to practice skills through role-play, discussion, and structured activities. The group emphasizes learning, practicing, and applying skills in real college environments, rather than simply talking about social challenges.

The program is designed for autistic individuals who are currently enrolled in post-secondary education. Individuals who are not currently enrolled or are recent graduates should reach out to Izzy Casey to determine if this group is a good fit.

Topics covered in this program will include: 

• Understanding Social Relationships and Goals
• Starting and Maintaining Conversations 
• Joining Groups and Finding Your People
• Developing and Maintaining Friendships
• Texting, Social Media, and Digital Communication
• Making Plans and Hosting Get-Togethers
• Handling Conflict, Disagreement, and Rejection
• Dating and Romantic Relationships
• Healthy Relationships and Social Boundaries
• Putting It All Together: Your Social Game Plan
  
  Each 90-minute session will consist of a check-in, skill lesson, facilitator demonstration, group discussion, behavioral rehearsal, real world challenge, and wrap up.

Participants must: 

• Be 18-30 years old and be a current college student enrolled in a degree or certificate program.

• Demonstrate an interest in building social skills, friendships, and confidence in college or young adult settings.

• Be willing to participate in group discussions, role-play activities, and social practice.

• Be able to communicate effectively in a virtual group setting using spoken language or another reliable communication method. 

• Have access to a reliable internet connection and a device capable of participating in live video sessions.

• Be able to participate safely and respectfully in a 90-minute virtual group without requiring continuous one-to-one support.

• Demonstrate the ability to benefit from direct instruction, coaching, and peer feedback.

• Commit to attending weekly virtual sessions, and when possible, monthly in-person social events on Saint Joseph's University Hawk Hill Campus (for students local to SJU).

College Connect is designed for college who want to strengthen their social skills, improve peer relationships, and gain confidence navigating the social aspects of college and adult life. The program may not be appropriate for individuals who require intensive behavioral or clinical support beyond the scope of a structured social skills group.