Supporting Neurodivergent Students Through the College Application Process

One in five students has a learning disability such as dyslexia or ADHD. Almost 5% of California students are identified as autistic. There is no doubt that neurodivergence is on the rise - and that these students have the drive and determination to be college bound. However, mainstream ways of supporting them through the college search and application process may not prove effective. In this special session just for school-based college counselors, we’ll explore the following questions through the lens of a parent, student, and expert from the Landmark Bay Area Success Center:

• What is neurodiversity? 

• What do colleges offer neurodivergent students?

• How can we support neurodivergent students in creating their college lists?

• How might working with a neurodivergent student differ and what are top tips for success?

• What resources and programs are available to help neurodivergent students in the journey?

*This session will be recorded and shared with all RSVPs.

Sandra Fishler

Sandra Fishler is the Director of the Landmark College Success Center which opened its doors in August 2021. Sandra joined the LC team in the Fall of 2020. Prior to joining LC, Sandra successfully collaborated with numerous university partners for over six years as the director of Academic Affairs for an online program management company. In addition, Sandra has taught and advised in the K-12 system as well as the community college setting. Sandra enjoys the beach, cooking, and her spirited family. 

Callie Turk

Callie Turk is co-founder of REEL, a local nonprofit working to build bridges between families and educators of Silicon Valley’s neurodivergent/twice-exceptional learners. In her work with REEL, Callie draws on her 15-plus year career working with ed tech companies at the cutting edge of educator professional learning. Callie received her MBA from Stanford University and BS from Miami University (Ohio). She is pursuing her doctorate degree at the Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity in Education. She has written for Parenting for High Potential and 2eNews and presented at regional and national venues, including CEC and CUNY’s Neurodiversity Conference. Callie is also the parent of three awesome and interesting college-aged young adults, one of whom is neurodivergent.