Testimonials
"My peer coach helped me with finding campus resources. It was helpful to have someone to talk to who understands my point of view".
— SSP Student
"SSP helped put us at ease and helped our son transition to college and living independently. It helps him with time management and our son knows he has someone and somewhere to go if a problem arises".
— SSP Parent
"The weekly meetings [with SSP] are crucial as they keep my son focused and on track with assignments. They afford him the opportunity to check in with someone, get help with planning and breaking down assignments, and things he can do to help manage his time efficiently".
— SSP Parent
"My son has made a successful transition to college because of the extras that the SSP program has been able to provide. I am grateful for the patience and support this department has been able to provide to him and by extension to me, thank you!"
— SSP Parent
“My SSP (peer) coach was very friendly and I felt she understood many situations I brought up because she was young and is also a current RIT student. I think the more relevant a coach or teach is to the student the higher quality and satisfying the feedback is.”
— SSP Student
"I would recommend that incoming students work with a peer coach so they can have a connection and resource on campus".
— SSP Student
“I loved this program (Gearing Up For Success, Pre-orientation program) and felt that it helped my student transition to college life much easier. I also liked the way the program built familiarity with SSP staff and also familiarity with the campus and campus life. Excellent program!”
— SSP Parent
“If you email any SSP staff that you need immediate help, it is amazing they are there for you in the same day or next and if not they ask someone else to reach out to you! Makes being a part of the SSP program feel like there really is a team out there for you making sure you are successful.”
— SSP Student
"Having [the Spectrum Support Program] has given us a higher level of comfort about RIT. We believe it has played an important role in [our son’s] adapting to college life. This is a journey, and we see hopeful signs of progress along the way".
— SSP Parent
"It is nice to have someone to meet up with, my peer coach helped me know where to go to get help when I needed it".
— SSP Student
Online Enrollment
Program Enrollment for the 2018-19 Academic Year is closed as of July 1st 2018. Please contact Laurie Ackles, Director at laaldc@rit.edu to discuss available support options.
Faculty/Staff Resources
If you have questions or would like additional information about training related to working with students with autism spectrum disorders, please contact us.
Prospective Student and Family Resources
Resources and information for current high school students, incoming RIT students and their families.
Neurodiverse Hiring Initiative
An innovative initiative and partnership between RIT Office of Cooperative Education and Career Services and the Spectrum Support Program that will help connect employers and job seekers on the autism spectrum.
Make a Gift
Donations to the Spectrum Support Program will help offset enrollment fees for families who qualify for financial assistance and supports the creation of new program initiatives.