Spectrum of Knights students will be partnered with a neurotypical peer who will engage with students socially, both formally and informally. Peer mentors serve as an additional resource to SOK members by modeling social behavior, attending campus events with members, and being another resource for questions and problem solving.
Our program will host monthly social gatherings based on student interest. When able, these events will be sensory reduced. Examples include: reduced lighting and noise, comfortable seating, fidgets, and more. We will make every effort to accommodate diverse needs based on environment and planned events.
Spectrum of Knights students living within campus residencies will be eligible to move in four days prior to all campus move-in. During this time, members will participate in SOK specialized orientation program. Beyond early move-in, students will have continued support from Resident Assistants specially trained in roommate relationship building and communication strategies for students on the Autism Spectrum.
Spectrum of Knights students will take part in an individual and group orientation program (along with traditional New Student Orientation). During these four days, students will engage with the Autism Coordinator, peer mentors, and additional campus partners. Students will receive individual tours based on their academic courses, assistance in developing a weekly schedule, and understanding of organization strategies for college. Pieces of this orientation program will include 1-1 meetings, as well as time for family support and collaboration.
Study tables will be offered two hours weekly for members of Spectrum of Knights. Study tables will occur in a quiet, comfortable space and will be facilitated by a specially trained peer tutor.
The Spectrum of Knights program will serve as a continual resource to students as they navigate the complexity of the collegiate environment. The Autism Coordinator may act as a facilitator of conversations between program members and Marian faculty and staff, as needed.
Students will meet weekly, at minimum, with the Autism Coordinator to develop skills related to executive functioning, problem solving, and leadership. The Autism Coordinator will serve as a coach and mentor to students from their first year on campus through to graduation.
Spectrum of Knights will hold weekly skill-building workshops based on the current needs of students. Cohorts are determined based on multiple factors, including class status at Marian, enrollment year in SOK, and individual needs within the program. Workshops will address each cohort's unique needs. Topics covered during these workshops may include: college level writing and studying, navigating living with a roommate, interpersonal relationship building, stress management, healthy living, self-advocacy and more.
In partnership with The Exchange (Career Development), Spectrum of Knights students will receive individualized resume building and job/internship search assistance. Students can participate in mock interviews and receive quality feedback from career development experts who have been trained in working with autistic students. The Exchange and the Autism Coordinator will collaborate and assist students in finding work environments/companies well suited to hire and support individuals on the autism spectrum.
Disclaimer
There is no charge for standard accommodations and services associated with the Personalized Learning Center. There will be an additional fee for the Autism Program, which is a specialized program within the Personalized Learning Center.
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Notice of Nondiscrimination
Marian University does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, age or disabilities in the selection of administrative personnel, faculty and staff, and students.
*Placement rates are gathered from data collected from graduates within six months of graduation.
Students may make a complaint to the Indiana Commission of Higher Education.
Marian University is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Indiana.
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