Empowering Neurodiverse Students

What is

College For All?

College For All is a supportive space created by a neurodiverse teen for other high school students who are on the spectrum, have ADHD, or other learning differences. My goal is to bring together the best resources available and make them easy to access, all in one place. I hope to inspire self-advocacy, break down the stigma around neurodiversity, and help students prepare to succeed in college. You are not alone in this.

My Journey: Embracing Differences and Building Community

My Journey: Embracing Differences and Building Community

MORE ABOUT ELLIE

My Journey to Understanding Neurodiversity

I faced many challenges in school and socially. While I did well academically, I often struggled with the pace of tests and understanding social interactions. I even experienced bullying, which left me feeling confused and sad. At 14, I took a neuropsych test and learned that I have high-functioning autism. While the diagnosis initially scared me, over time I came to embrace it as a part of who I am. Understanding my neurodiversity has been empowering, and it’s helped me better manage my struggles and advocate for myself.

Turning Struggles into Strengths

Over time, I came to realize that putting a name to my struggles, behavior and feelings was actually one of the best and most comforting things I could do for myself.  With some time to process and learn, I changed my perspective entirely on my diagnosis. I now know that neurodiversity is a difference and not a deficit. I now better understand how to recognize and manage my struggles. I also started the process of gaining support. I started working with a therapist who specializes in autism and my family and I have become more educated. I have also learned how to study in a more efficient way that benefits me and my needs. I have a comprehensive IEP, I learned more about how to relate to people and also how to share my diagnosis with others. And while I will always be a work in progress the most important thing to me is being a self-advocate. I realized I shouldn't be ashamed but proud of who I am.

Creating Resources for Neurodiverse Teens

As I focused on preparing for college, I quickly realized that I would need to approach it differently than many of my peers. I believe that all teens, regardless of their neurodiversity, should have access to the tools and support they need to succeed in higher education. College must/should be a place where everyone can succeed, not just neurotypical kids. That’s why I created College for All—a platform designed to provide resources, tips, and guidance for neurodiverse teens preparing for college. This website is a space for sharing helpful information on accommodations, support programs, and strategies for success. I am excited to help.

FAQ's

  • No. While students with formal diagnoses may benefit from accommodations and resources, the tools and advice provided can also help students who identify as neurodiverse but may not have a formal diagnosis.

  • The scorecard is a helpful tool that lets you compare colleges based on what’s important to you; it includes accommodations, campus resources, and social opportunities. You can use it during college visits or when meeting with disability services to keep track of what each school offers.

  • The colleges were chosen based on their commitment to supporting neurodiverse students, offering services like academic coaching, peer mentoring, and social engagement opportunities. They represent a variety of options to meet diverse needs. However, if you work at a college or are aware of one that offers high quality support please let me know so I can feature you as well.

  • Yes, definitely I am available to speak! These resources are made to help as many students as possible. Just give credit to the website when you share them. If you have questions or want to use them for something specific, you can email Ellie at elliecollegeforall@gmail.com

  • There are many other great options that are worth looking into, including;

    • A gap year

    • 2 year colleges

    • Community college

    • Trade school

    • Internships

    • Working (part or full time)

    • Part time college such as night classes

    • Taking online classes

    • Specialty schools (e.g. Landmark)

    • Transition programs

    • Life skills and independent living programs

  • Universities, neurodiverse students, parents of neurodiverse students and anyone else can reach me through my email: elliecollegeforall@gmail.com

  • This site is a great tool for parents, teachers, and counselors to learn how to better support neurodiverse students. They can use the resources here to help students prepare for college and find the right programs to fit their needs.