by Sabrina Hiltunen
Career Coordinator, CLE Monterey

Early EnrollmentWhile the modern-day college experience is vastly different from that of the previous generation, what hasn’t changed is the vital importance of necessary supportive services and programs. The leap to adulthood and independent learning can be extremely challenging, particularly for neurodiverse students. Eliminating even the smallest reminders that students had in high school (such as bells) can create learning gaps for students challenged by executive functioning skills like organization and time management. 

Benefits of Early Enrollment and Research 

Researching programs and seeking out support early in the process is highly recommended, especially if there are lengthy and critical processes to address, such as securing funding and accommodations. Lining up coaching support early comes with rewards not all have considered. 

For example, College Living Experience (CLE) comes with Early Enrollment benefits, including a $2,500 financial incentive, priority roommate and housing selection, assistance wrapping up the college admissions process, scheduling classes, and setting up solid relationships and familiarity with campus-based accessibility offices before classes get going. These benefits provide peace of mind for students and families by alleviating the stress and worry of the unknown so that the focus can be on the festivities of senior year. 

Evaluating Support and Coaching on and off Campus 

When touring colleges and independent support programs, ask the following questions: 

  • What types of accommodations and supports are available?
  • What documentation is needed for those accommodations? 
  • How often do the students meet with support staff, and what are the wait times? 
  • How many staff are available to help students? 
  • What is the ratio of staff to number of students registered with the accessibility office? 
  • Who initiates the support or meetings? 
  • What are the qualifications of academic tutors and resident advisors?  
  • Are they students or professionals? 

 Coaching Support is Critical to Student Success in College 

Building a Trusted Circle of Support

CLE FriendsThe path to independence does not consist of solitude but rather a circle of support with people who are there to teach, coach, and assist. CLE team members work with students and families from the time they are accepted and commit to CLE on critical supportive services that set up students for success, including: 

  • Local mental health providers or maintain current therapist 
  • Appointments with local providers, wellness centers, and locating pharmacies
  • Transportation services 
  • Securing housing and a roommate 
  • Setting up new bank accounts so students can manage their finances 
  • Making and maintaining healthy friendships and relationships 

Executive Functioning Support

Executive Functioning SupportStudents who struggle with executive functioning often feel challenged in most, if not all, aspects of their lives. This struggle can impact their mental health, stress, and self-worth. CLE Coaches can help collaborate with students on strategies to overcome these challenges. 

Such as: 

  • Identify one place to organize appointments and maintain it daily 
  • Strategize how to read a syllabus and prioritize more critical assignments 
  • Creating and holding boundaries with roommates when sharing common spaces and household items, navigating overnight guests, problem-solving, conflict management, and resolution 
  • Communication with professors and accessing accommodations 
  • Time management 

Coaching Support for Parents Too

CommunicationCLE partners with Parent Coach Professionals to provide sessions for parents to help them adjust to their changing roles, manage expectations, and share strategies to empower their students for success. Parent Coaches can assist with topics like the following:

  • The shifting relationship between parents and students as the parent moves from being the daily problem solver to being a trusted advisor
  • Communication tips: when to answer calls and texts, frequency of communication, and how to support your young adult make decisions on their own 
  • Transition away from the student relying on family for help 
  • Boundaries with parents tracking their student on Life 360 and other apps 

Confidence is created when one gains experience and recognizes they are resilient and capable. The most effective method for this is through trial and error with a trusted coach to guide you. If your student would benefit from additional support as they attend college, build a career, and build a life away from home, reach out to CLE for help.  

Don’t miss out on Early Enrollment benefits at CLE!

Call our National Admissions Advisors today and explore our eight locations nationwide. Visit ExperienceCLE.com or call (800) 486-5058.