From Diagnosis to Dean's List

Kadin McElwain, an autistic student, reflects on his path to college.

Kadin McElwain, a rising junior at Kent State University, has overcome many challenges to get where he is today. Diagnosed with autism at the age of two, he was met with skepticism about his potential to succeed. But with the unwavering support of his parents and his own determination, Kadin proved his doubters wrong, making the Dean’s list four times in a row. Now, he is striving to become a voice for others on the autism spectrum, working tirelessly to raise awareness about autism and combat stigma so that other autistic people can find acceptance and inclusion.

"Throughout my life, I’ve had people question my capabilities because I was on the autism spectrum,” Kadin says. “Back when I was first diagnosed with autism, the doctor doubted that I would go to college. But my parents wouldn’t have that—thanks to them and my strong work ethic, I proved people wrong. Now, I’m a college student, writer and activist working hard to make sure people know about autism and that people like me aren’t ashamed of who they are."

Kadin’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and supportive environments for autistic students. As students and their families prepare for the new school year, his story offers valuable insights for navigating the transition from high school to college.

The Importance of Understanding and Inclusion

Kadin's journey has not been without its hurdles. He was often bullied and

misunderstood throughout middle school and high school—a result of his peer’s lack of knowledge about his autism diagnosis.

“I got bullied in school and spent the longest time with low self-esteem, ashamed of being on the autism spectrum. I also had teachers questioning my capabilities, and some of them even thought I was faking my autism,” he says.

A major challenge came when his middle school abruptly removed the special education services he was receiving through his Individualized Education Program (IEP)—a decision his parents fought tirelessly to reverse.

“In middle school, my IEP was cut off without my parent’s knowledge or consent because the school couldn’t tell that I was on the autism spectrum. They thought autism meant that you had to be failing academically and socially,” explains Kadin. “My parents fought back—they messaged every single autism organization in Tennessee and the state senator to get my IEP reinstated. They always pushed me, always went to my IEP meetings, and they fought tooth and nail to get me to where I’m at today because they knew that I was capable of success.”

Despite these difficulties, Kadin achieved significant academic success, graduating from high school early during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift to online learning allowed him to concentrate better and excel in subjects he previously struggled with, like math. Today, he is focused on his academics and excelling in all subjects.

Creating an inclusive school environment

Students with disabilities are much more likely to be bullied than their non-disabled peers. Bullying is not a harmless rite of childhood that everyone experiences. Research shows that bullying can negatively impact a child’s access to education and lead to:

·         School avoidance and higher rates of absenteeism

·         Decrease in grades

·         Inability to concentrate

·         Loss of interest in academic achievement

·         Increase in dropout rates

IEPs can be a helpful tool in a bullying prevention plan. Remember: every child

receiving special education is entitled to a free, appropriate public education (FAPE), and bullying can become an obstacle to that education.

Learn more in Autism Speaks’ newly revised School Community Tool Kit.

Navigating the Transition

Transitioning from high school to college can be challenging for students with autism, who often struggle with changes in routine and environment. For Kadin, the transition to college required meticulous preparation and support from his loved ones.

Beyond the usual filling out of applications, researching financial aid and buying textbooks, Kadin prepared for his new reality by learning everything there is to know about life in college. He credits Autism Speaks’ Postsecondary Educational Opportunities Guide with giving him the information he needed to create and adjust to his new routines. He also participated in applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, where he learned key independent living skills that he would need for life in the dorms.

Having the support of his parents helped Kalin develop the confidence to embrace his identity and tackle life on his own. “One of the biggest things my parents taught me is not to be ashamed of who I am. Thanks to my parents teaching me how to embrace who I am and embrace my gifts, I have more confidence than I’ve had in a long time.”

In college, Kadin continues to benefit from accommodations that help him excel academically. By working with his school’s Student Accessibility Services, he secured extended time for testing and a quiet room to take exams, which has significantly reduced his stress levels.

Securing Accommodations in College

Colleges are required to provide reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities, including autism. Most programs provide accommodations like:

·         Extended testing times

·         Extended time for turning in assignments and papers

·         Help with taking notes

·         A single dorm room

Contact your program’s student services office to find out about what accommodations your school offers. To secure these accommodations, you may need to provide proof of your diagnosis through documents like a medical evaluation or a recent IEP or 504 plan.

Learn more in Autism Speaks’ Transition Roadmap to Postsecondary Education.

The Future Ahead

Kadin’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, support and self-acceptance. After college, he plans to work in public relations within the music or political industries and continue his advocacy for the autism community.

He even envisions a potential run for office: “I think that we need more neurodivergent minds in positions of elected authority. It would teach this world to be kinder to each other and not see differences as much as we do,” he says.

His journey shows that with the right support, success is within reach for autistic students. "Don’t be hard on yourself and don’t be ashamed of who you are,” he adds. “You have the potential to have an amazing future.”