Self-knowledge is a prerequisite for self-advocacy. College counselors may assist students with Level 1 ASD to engage in self-reflection, which would lead to them being express their needs and desires with employers. This is a key skill in the success of individuals with Level 1 ASD in the workplace.

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- Strength-based careers
- Career assessments
- Job search
- Work environment
- Job interview
- Work accommodations
- Self-knowledge and self-advocacy

Career-Related Considerations in Students with Level 1 ASD

Dipeolu, A. O., Storlie, C., &amp; Johnson, C. (2015). College students with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder: Best practices for successful transition to the world of work. Journal of College Counseling, 18(2), 175–190. https://doi.org/10.1002/jocc.12013 

College Students with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder: Best Practices for Successful Transition to the World of Work

The jobs that best align with the strengths of individuals with Level 1 ASD are those that require independent work with opportunities for self-employment. These include computer repair, graphic design, bookkeeping, accounting, engineering, etc.

Strength-Based Careers as a Career-Related Consideration

Assessments which allow individuals to identify their strengths and interests are common practice when it comes to career development. However, when working with students with Level 1 ASD, college counselors should avoid the use of the typical pen-and-paper assessment and instead utilize card sorts. This method helps alleviate the stress that the assessment format may provoke in these individuals.

Career Assessments as a Career-Related Consideration

Submitting an online work portfolio in lieu of an interview allows employers to focus solely on the talents and accomplishments of individuals with Level 1 ASD, de-emphasizing their verbal abilities.

Job Search as a Career-Related Consideration

Individuals with Level 1 ASD should be encouraged to look for jobs in which the environment and company are best able to accommodate for their needs. Friendly and supportive work environments are ideal for such individuals, and this aspect of the job search should be emphasized over finding a specific job.

Work Environment as a Career-Related Consideration

Individuals with Level 1 ASD often struggle with social skills, which makes the interview portion of a job application rather daunting. College counselors can prepare students for interviews through role play, rehearsing possible scenarios, and watching videos. Students are also encouraged to deeply research the job prior to their interview so that they are best able to present the interviewer with appropriate knowledge and questions.

Job Interview as a Career-Related Consideration

College counselors can assist students in gauging when and when not to disclose their disability during an interview. If the individual does choose to disclose, they are only required to provide details on their disability if it results in functional limitations. Potential accommodations in the workplace include periodic breaks throughout the day, alternatives to open cubicles, and limited exposure to ringing phones, as lots of light and sound may lead to sensory overload.

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