College STEPS BLOG
College Steps provides informative content each month focused on higher education for students, families, educators, and anyone who may benefit from learning more about the transition to college for students with learning and social challenges. You’ll find insights, action steps, supporting research, and resources.
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Making the Leap: Supporting Neurodiverse Students in College
October 2025 Edition
Author: Aaron Rakow, PhD.
Transitions are challenging for every student, but for those who are neurodiverse or have learning differences, the leap from high school to college can feel especially overwhelming. From managing new schedules and responsibilities to navigating a complex social world, students are suddenly asked to juggle skills that rely heavily on executive functioning—like prioritizing tasks, staying organized, and adapting to unfamiliar processes.
Research from CHADD shows that difficulties with executive functioning are one of the most common hurdles for students with ADHD and related learning differences. Without targeted strategies, these barriers can overshadow academic potential and dampen confidence.
That’s where College Steps comes in. Through mentorship and personalized guidance, we help students build the skills and confidence they need to thrive—academically, socially, and personally.
Our peer mentorship program provides one-on-one support with areas like:
Time management & organization (Learn more from Understood.org)
Self-advocacy in the classroom (Wrightslaw: College & Disabilities)
Social engagement & confidence-building (Social Thinking)
Navigating campus disability services (U.S. Department of Education: Rights for Students with Disabilities)
With the right support, every student can find their footing and develop into independent individuals. Our goal at College Steps is not only to help students succeed in the classroom but to empower them with lifelong skills that will serve them well beyond college. You can read more about how our students are thriving on our Success Stories page or explore the range of Support Services we offer.
Register for the College Steps Roundtable on October 29th, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.