Q: What is the Bridges Program?
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»’s Bridges College Success Program provides specialized support for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), helping them transition successfully into college and prepare for competitive employment post-graduation.
Bridges delivers individualized, research-based assistance tailored to each student's unique needs. Program staff serve as liaisons between students and the university system, guiding them through the academic, social, and personal intricacies of college life. The overarching goal is to foster an inclusive and supportive environment where students with ASD can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Q: Why is a specialized program needed?
Research indicates that nearly 50% of 25-year-olds with ASD have never held a job, despite possessing the skills and expertise necessary for professional success. Unemployment and underemployment within the autistic community represent a significant, untapped potential.
Many students with ASD meet the academic criteria for college admission but struggle with self-management and self-advocacy skills essential for independent living. They may struggle to meet deadlines, ask for help when needed, and study effectively. They may also struggle with hygiene and daily living activities. Navigating the complexities of academic expectations, social interactions, and campus resources can be overwhelming, leading to increased stress and, in some cases, failure to complete their degree. Bridges mitigates these challenges by providing structured guidance and targeted support.
Q: How does Bridges help?
Bridges employs a wraparound planning process, crafting an individualized support network for each student. Key elements include:
- Peer Mentorship: Undergraduate mentors, often former Bridges members themselves, offer guidance and social support, helping students address concerns effectively.
- Personalized Coaching: The Bridges coordinator works closely with students to:
- Identify strengths, interests, and career aspirations
- Coordinate on-campus and community resources
- Promote informed decision-making and proactive problem-solving
- Manage stress and develop coping strategies
- Enhance self-advocacy skills
- Improve executive functioning, including time management and organization
- Explore career paths aligned with personal interests
- Strengthen life skills (hygiene, independent living, social norms, and relationship-building)
- Facilitate a smooth transition from home to campus life
- Provide targeted instruction in social skills
Q: What services does the Bridges Program offer?
Bridges provides comprehensive, high-touch resources designed to ensure student success:
- Early Move-In & Specialized Orientation: Students can check into dorms a day early to reduce move-in stress and participate in both traditional and customized orientation experiences.
- Weekly Individual Coaching: Students meet with an autism specialist to establish and pursue academic, personal, and vocational goals. These sessions address self-advocacy, executive functioning, and stress management.
- Group Social Skills & Support Meetings: Weekly sessions foster peer connections and enhance social interaction skills.
- Monthly Community Outings: Supervised excursions provide real-world opportunities to practice social skills in a supportive setting.
- Faculty & Staff Collaboration: The Bridges coordinator works with university personnel to promote awareness and ensure necessary accommodations.
- Undergraduate Study Groups & Peer Support: Peer mentors organize study sessions and provide academic guidance.
- Parent Support: The Bridges coordinator works with parents to help ease the transition from parents as managers to consultants as their students become more independent.
Q: Who is eligible to participate?
Bridges is open to students enrolled in on-campus undergraduate degree programs at Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» who have a formal ASD diagnosis from a qualified medical provider (typically a licensed psychologist).
Admission is selective to ensure personalized attention. Prospective students must:
- Submit an application
- Participate in an interview with the Bridges coordinator
- Provide a letter of recommendation from an educational or personal reference
- Demonstrate a commitment to attending meetings and events
- Consent to release pertinent program information to parents and provide relevant records from previous educational and treatment providers
Q: What are the enrollment requirements for Bridges participation?
Students must be enrolled in at least two on-campus courses (6 credit hours). However, full-time status at Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» requires 12 credit hours. Students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisor and financial aid office before enrolling in fewer than 12 credit hours. The Bridges coordinator advises that students take no more than 14 credit hours during the first semester to allow for transition and social time.
Q: Is on-campus residency required?
No, students are not required to live on campus to participate in Bridges. However, residential life offers increased social engagement, and students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities. Regardless of residency status, participation in Bridges events is mandatory.
Q: Do students need to reapply each semester?
No. Once admitted, students remain in the program unless they elect to discontinue services or are mutually dismissed by the student and the Bridges coordinator based on progress and program fit. Students who wish to withdraw must submit written notice to the Bridges coordinator. No refunds are given for students who withdraw once a semester has started.
Q: What is the cost of participation?
Bridges is a highly specialized program with a participation fee of $2500 per semester. This fee is separate from tuition and other course-related expenses.
Q: Who can I contact for more information?
For further details, please contact:
LeAnne McClure-Oliver
Bridges Program Coordinator
(903)233-4478
bridges@letu.edu
