Breakout Session

Autistics On Campus: College Student Experiences & Recommendations

3-3:50 p.m. BEST 120

Presented by: Spencer Hunley, Advocacy Specialist, University of Kansas Medical Center LEND;  Mac Oppermann, Neurodivergent Student, UMKC (He/Him); Z Kemp, Founder & President, Neurodivergent Student Union, UMKC (They/Them);  Cameron "CJ" McCaslin, Autistic Student, Vice President, Neurodivergent Student Union & Officer-at-Large, Trans+, UMKC (They/Them/Theirs); Phillip MacGruder, Advocacy Trainer, Self-Advocate Coalition of Kansas

Post-secondary education for autistic students can be an overwhelming and notably different experience from high school, but can also be incredibly affirming and rewarding. This panel discussion will focus on experiences as a neurodivergent college student, including diagnosis journeys, experience in school before college, and current experiences attending university. 

Topics include accommodations, inclusion, community, identity, and panelists' thoughts on how neurodivergent students can thrive in college, but also what colleges and communities can do to make such an academic journey more inclusive, equitable and accessible. 

An audience Q&A will take place near the end of the session.