Discovering the Power of Self-Advocacy After My Autism Diagnosis

I started my first semester at a new college. This is not my first time attempting higher education, this is my fourth. Before I received my autism diagnosis, I received some accommodations in college due to my ADHD diagnosis, but I did not know myself enough at the time to know which resources would benefit my needs, and I was still getting to know myself. Now that I’m in college with better insight into my thoughts and feelings and an empowering autism diagnosis, I am positive this time my experience will end in a college diploma. I believe learning how to advocate for yourself and your needs is the most important thing you will ever learn in this life.

“…you have the power to make your goal a reality… once you start advocating for yourself, it gets easier and easier to accomplish bigger goals.” –Abby Edwards

Gaining the skill of self-advocacy is comparable to gaining a new superpower to add to your neurodiverse tool belt. The more you advocate for yourself, the more your opportunities grow, your confidence grows, and your ability to accomplish bigger tasks will give you the confidence to fly — just like a real superhero!

Self-advocacy sounds great, but where should you start? Abby suggests that you ask yourself, “What is one thing I would like to see change in my life?” Next, ask yourself, “What can I do to accomplish this?”

Feel free to save the image below, print it out and hang it where you can see it.

In order to reach your goals, you can start by researching resources in your area. For example, my goal is to get good grades and work hard this semester. The resources I looked into were setting up academic accommodations though my college’s Student Support Services. With a note from my psychologist in hand, I was able to be set up with accommodations that would benefit my time in the classroom. These accommodations include additional time on tests in a quiet environment, recording class lectures and receiving lecture notes beforehand. I’ve also applied for tutoring services.

All of this sounds like a lot, but like Abby says, once you set small goals for yourself, it can be easier to achieve those big goals!