| Orientation & Registration | Familiarize yourself with campus layout, accessibility features and registration process | Pull up a map of DU and the local surrounding environment | FLYTE Discoveries DU Office of the Registrar DU Interactive Map |
| Connect, Connect, Connect | Explore Crimson Connect thru DU | Make a list of 2-3 clubs or activities that you would like to potentially become involved in. | Crimson Connect and links to clubs and activities on DU’s website First Ascent Fraternity and Sorority Life Crimson Connect: NDRG Intramural sports Dungeons and Dragons DU wide and LEP (go explore) RTD (free QR code) |
| Academic Support | Utilize LEP tutoring services, academic advising and note-taking support as needed | Identify classes that may require more time and attention | DU Office of Academic Advising |
| Sensory Management | Develop strategies to manage sensory overload in classrooms, dining halls and social spaces | Sensory ball, fidgets, headphones, breath work | How to connect Digital LEP resources (i.e. breathe work) Breathwork App |
| Time Management | Utilize calendars, reminders, time-blocking techniques to stay organized | Familiarize yourself with the Canvas or Outlook calendar or purchase paper calendar | |
| Mental Health Support | Seek counseling services if needed, consult with current therapist regarding continuation of services, identify your support team | Educate yourself on medication management, wellness practices, issues that cause the most stress | DU Health and Counseling Center |
| Independent Living Skills | Assess ILS (food & shelter, personal hygiene, laundry, bedding, cooking, cleaning) | Choose and learn a new skill. Practice relying on yourself. | DU's Guide to Residential Living
Independent Skills Worksheet |
| Life in Colorado | Drink plenty of water, carry a water bottle and lip moisturizer, layer your clothing for the day, have a pair of sunglasses and use sunscreen and lotion | Purchase a book or explore websites related to life in CO | |
Important Considerations |
| Plan and Prepare | Transitions are hard. The first few weeks may feel exciting, uncomfortable, and overwhelming all at the same time. | Identify people or places on campus that you enjoy. Expect to have some ups and downs. | FLYTE team members, academic advisor appointment |
| Open Communication | Maintain open communication with professors, advisors and Student Disability Services staff regarding needs and challenges | Take some time to understand your diagnosis and how they impact your academic work. | Neuropsychological assessments Additional documentation |
| Self-Advocacy | Learn to articulate needs and advocate for appropriate accommodations. Learn to ask for help. | Practice with LEP Academic Counselor, read through your Letter of Approved Accommodations (LOAA) | Schedule an appointment with your instructors outside of class or attend office hours. Email instructors when you are struggling or need to miss class. |
| Peer Support | Connect with other neurodivergent students on campus to build community and share strategies | Connect with LEP Peer Leader, 4D Mentor at FLYTE and Discoveries | Crimson Connect The Neurodiversity Resource Group |
| Flexibility | Be prepared to adjust strategies and seek additional support as needed throughout the college experience | Explore your expectations for college (i.e. courses, roommates, Greek life, social clubs, etc.) | |
| Find Balance | Be aware of your sleeping, eating, socialization and exercise routines. | Create a journal of how you are creating balance with your routines. What helps with supporting self-care? | |
| College Capable vs. College Ready | Capable: student can handle college level academics Ready: student can handle independence to get TO and THRU college | Focus on valuable ILS*. What are the gaps or the challenges? Access what you’re good at and what you need help with. | Assessments for neurodivergent students |
| Review Summer Webinars and Workshops | Take time to attend and/or review LEP’s Summer Series | Email FLYTE@du.edu if you have questions. The Big 3: Canvas, Outlook, My DU *Eat breakfast on Sunday morning (dining hall not open) :) | Zoom link to Summer Webinars and Workshops (located in follow-up emails) |