TRANSITIONING STUDENTS ON THE SPECTRUM FROM COLLEGE TO WORK: THE FINAL STEP FOR THE BUDDING PROFESSIONAL SHANNON MURPHY MANDADI ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

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