The Peer Mentor Program assists students with Asperger syndrome (AS) and autism with their transition to college. Because students with AS tend to isolate themselves, the Peer Mentor Program seeks to provide the student with an older undergraduate student mentor. The student and mentor will meet regularly throughout the fall semester. The mentor will offer the student friendship and availability, assistance with organization, prioritization and time management, and the sharing of personal experiences about adjusting to college. The mentor will help the student navigate the social aspects of college life, such as joining clubs or organizations and attending campus-wide events. In addition, the mentor will give the student an initial tour of campus and help him/her locate all of the buildings and classrooms.
In addition to meeting with his/her mentor at least once per week, the student with AS will also have a weekly check-in meeting with the director of disability resources. This meeting will serve to identify any issues the student is having and to discuss how to address them, either with the mentor or without. Additionally, the director can check in regarding grades, add/drop dates, or housing/roommate situations, and then refer the student to the appropriate campus resources.
Students must register with the Center for Disability Resources and consent to disclose their disability to their mentor to participate in this program. To participate in this program as either a student or a mentor, contact disabilities@iit.edu or 312.567.5744.