WIRED LIKE THIS
Social interaction and peer bonding are a critical part of the college growth experience. Those with learning differences (LD) and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face a greater challenge making social connections and being accepted.
Where we started:
Wired Like This (WLT) is a collegiate organization created to raise awareness, acceptance, and inclusion of those on the spectrum. WLT creates an accepting environment through coordinating fun activities like games, hangouts and social events. Neurotypical and neurodiverse students, advocates, and faculty are all welcome to become members. We seek to reduce the stigma attached to ASD and provide an environment where members build friendships and professional connections. Ultimately, our goal is to help neurodiverse students' graduate college with the skills and confidence needed to make long-lasting friendships, obtain jobs and be happy productive members of society.
What we are doing now:
We seek to encourage individuals with learning differences and people on the autism spectrum to pursue higher education via alleviating some of the financial burden associated with pursuing a degree. Thus, we created the Wired Like This Scholarship.
Since 2017
What's Next?
Click on Get Involved above to learn more about how to participate with WLT in your college community and beyond!
Why are some brains WIRED differently?
The human brain is extremely complex with over 100 trillion connections. Before a child is born those connections determine the foundation, however after birth windows of opportunity through experience and interaction can help create more pathways. Social interaction in the College community is just one more way to encourage this to happen. We all have our differences and with our unique interests and abilities we can have meaningful experiences and help create more positive connections.
Visit the University of Maine to learn more about Children and Brain Development.
What is a brain WIRED with Autism like?
“Autism is a complex neurobehavioral condition that includes impairments in social interaction and developmental language and communication skills combined with rigid, repetitive behaviors. Because of the range of symptoms, this condition is now called autism spectrum disorder (ASD)” (Web MD)
The Mayo Clinic states that autism spectrum includes conditions such as Autism, Asperger’s syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and Pervasive Development Disorder. For more information regarding autism spectrum, please visit the National Institute of Mental Health.
What is a brain WIRED with ADHD like?
People with ADHD have a hard time sitting still for long periods of time and paying attention at school and work. Adults with ADHD have trouble managing their time and staying organized. They tend to interrupt others and have trouble waiting their turn.
Visit WebMD for more information about ADHD.
What is a brain WIRED with a Learning Disability like?
"Generally speaking, people with learning disabilities are of average or above average intelligence. There often appears to be a gap between the individual's potential and actual achievement. This is why learning disabilities are referred to as "hidden disabilities": the person looks perfectly "normal" and seems to be a very bright and intelligent person, yet may be unable to demonstrate the skill level expected from someone of a similar age." (LDA America)
Learning Disabilities of America describes differences on their website.
What's Next?
Learn more about how WLT got started through Our Story next!