Autism-Spectrum Disorder

Approximately one in 88 individuals is diagnosed with an Autism-Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and approximately 1/3 of these individuals go on to attend college within 6 years of graduating high school. The number of individuals on the Autism-Spectrum enrolled in college continues to grow each year. The Counseling and ADA Staff at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology are committed to providing these students with the support they need to succeed in college.

What is Autism-Spectrum Disorder?

ASD a persistent developmental disorder present from early childhood, characterized by difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts.

How can Counseling and ADA help?

The counseling and ADA staff at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology  are here to help you succeed! This may include providing ADA services to individuals with ASD, which may include longer testing time, a private room for testing, or other services. The ADA staff will work with you to determine which accommodations are most appropriate. The counseling staff can help students navigate the transition to college, including helping students with time management, the creation of schedules, interpersonal skill-building, or self-advocacy. Please contact the counseling staff for more information.

Tips for Succeeding in College

  1. Come to college with documentation of a diagnosis of ASD. This will speed up the process in securing ADA services
  2. Speak with your professors early and often. Communicating to your professors about your diagnosis, as well as providing information about what works best for you, will help professors help you succeed.
  3. Join a group. With over 100 student organizations on campus, there is bound to be one that appeals to you! Join a group and make friends on campus.
  4. Create a schedule. Write down when you have class and group meetings, but also when you plan to study, eat meals, and have free time.
  5. Map out campus. Before classes begin, consider walking around campus and mapping your route from your room to each classroom, to the cafeteria, to the library, or to other places you may go regularly.
  6. Seek help. The transition to college is difficult for everyone, but can present special struggles unique to individuals with ASD. Speak with professors, dorm staff, and counselors about what works best for you and how you can be successful in college.

Web Resources

Need Help?



Megan Reder-Schopp
Director of Counseling and ADA Services

Jeremy Kendall

Nancy Sprynczynatyk


Counseling Brochure
Title IX Brochure