Cat Rogers knew the odds were against him.
Like many diagnosed with autism, the path to attending college, receiving multiple job offers, and making friends seemed unlikely. Yet despite the challenges, Rogers, 29, will soon achieve remarkable milestones. In May, he will graduate with a master’s in education from Rowan University, start teaching biology, physics, and anatomy at a New Jersey high school in September, and tie the knot next year.
Diagnosed with autism at age 24, Rogers knows he defied expectations. Statistics paint a different picture for many in the autism community. A national study reveals only 35% of students with autism attend college. Moreover, a report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities is nearly twice that of those without.
Rogers attributes his success to Rowan’s PATH Program, which supports neurodivergent students, helping them stay on course academically, build friendships, and fully experience college life. The PATH — Preparation and Achievement in the Transition to Hire — program focuses on the crucial transition from education to employment, an area many neurodivergent students struggle with.
“It’s a definite game changer,” Rogers shared. “Once parents learn their child is diagnosed with autism, instead of dreaming that child might grow up to be a CEO of a Fortune 500 company, they instead opt for the ‘I will be happy if they at least finish high school and make friends.’”
Support programs like PATH are crucial. In New Jersey, where 1 in 34 children is diagnosed with autism, there is a growing need for such initiatives. These programs provide vital support to keep students on track, guiding them through the complexities of college life and ensuring they graduate with degrees that lead to meaningful employment.
The Shift in Expectations
For many students diagnosed with autism, the educational journey often comes with lower expectations. Whether attending public school or an out-of-district private school, the label of neurodivergent can bring a sense of being different, often accompanied by reduced academic rigor.
“Identifying as neurodivergent automatically labels people as being less than compared to our neurotypical counterparts,” Rogers explained. “The accommodations we receive in elementary, middle, and high school often do not level the playing field.”
Rogers believes that for students like him, the workload can feel less challenging, with fewer assignments and tests, leaving them underprepared for the real world. “We are often trained to work menial jobs requiring little skills and aptitude,” he said. “As a result, faith in our ability drops off, and the academic bar is lowered.”
Rogers’ late diagnosis in his 20s changed his perspective. “I went from feeling like I was a failed neurotypical to learning I’m a perfectly good autistic person,” he said.
At Rowan, Rogers worked closely with Chiara Jean Latimer, PATH Program coordinator and co-director of Rowan’s Center for Neurodiversity. His involvement in shaping the PATH Program, which launched in 2019, played a key role in its development. He also founded and led the Student Neurodiversity Club, a group offering neurodivergent students a supportive community.
Support for Success
PATH tailors its services to the individual needs of each student. Weekly counseling sessions address everything from mental health to academic progress. The program ensures students stay on track with their studies and helps them navigate the complexities of social life in college. For many students, college is the first time they’re away from home, and programs like PATH provide a sense of stability.
“For many of our students, this is the first time they’re away from home,” Latimer noted. “They have a lot of freedom and say in their own level of participation. College is a time when students start to see themselves as adults, and we treat them as adults. It’s exciting and, at times, overwhelming. Academics, study skills, and socializing are all part of the college experience and are equally addressed.”
This summer, the PATH program will introduce a new travel and study component. Students will participate in a four-week environmental program at the Grand Canyon, engaging in activities like hiking and learning about geology and sustainability.
PATH is open to students with autism and other developmental disabilities. Upon acceptance to Rowan, students can apply to PATH, and thanks to generous endowments, the program is offered at no cost to participants.
Navigating Social Challenges
For many neurodivergent students, adjusting to college life means learning to navigate social challenges. Being away from home, managing independence, and building relationships are all significant milestones. Programs that teach social skills, like PATH, provide students with the tools they need to thrive both academically and socially.
Learning to interact with peers, make friends, and advocate for themselves can be daunting for students who have previously relied on structured support environments. In college, these students no longer have Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), which offer specialized support in earlier educational settings.
While most colleges offer disability offices to accommodate neurodivergent students, they often don’t provide the specialized services available in programs like PATH. Having access to a structured support system can make all the difference in ensuring these students not only survive but succeed.
Continuing Education and Beyond
Institutions are recognizing the growing need for support programs tailored to neurodivergent students. Rowan continues to expand its offerings to meet the needs of students on the autism spectrum and others with developmental disabilities. The college’s efforts are part of a larger trend toward more inclusive educational environments, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
With support programs in place, students like Rogers are proving that the challenges associated with autism can be overcome. Their success stories demonstrate that with the right guidance, students on the autism spectrum can not only graduate but thrive in both their academic and professional careers.
Take the First Step with Strides ABA
At Strides ABA, we are committed to empowering individuals on the autism spectrum through comprehensive, personalized support. As an ABA center in New York and New Jersey, we focus on helping each individual reach their full potential. Whether you’re looking for tailored programs or expert guidance, we are here to help every step of the way.
Ready to learn more about how we can support your loved one? Contact us today and take the first step toward a brighter future.