ASCEND Approach

Student meeting with support coordinator

Our approach to address the needs of our autistic students is through 3 main components: Academic, Social, and Daily Living.

Academic

  • One-on-one weekly meeting with the Support Coordinator (Reinforce Executive Functioning development.)
  • ASCEND class Fridays weekly
  • The Support Coordinator serves as a secondary Advisor. (Register for classes, help connect with disability services.)
  • The Support Coordinator will help facilitate Professor introduction/meeting.

Social Support

  • ASCEND Allies (Peer Mentors)
  • Monthly Social Events
  • Connection to West Plains and MSU events
  • Volunteering in the community

Daily Living Transitions

  • Early Move-in for a calmer transition
  • Housing transition coaching
  • Break-out Space for calming, recentering opportunities (Sensory tools, Crash Pad, Massage Chair, Swinging Seat, etc.)
  • Neurodiversity training faculty, staff, and housing
  • On-Campus or Off-Campus Internships