Neurodiverse Student Support Program

The Neurodiverse Student Support Program is a comprehensive academic year support program. The program has four main components:

    1. Topics in Neurodiversity: Design Thinking Approaches. The course provides essential background about neurodiversity, the design thinking process and the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to guide students in developing projects that maximize the potential of neurodiversity. Through case studies, field trips, guest speakers, and community engagement, students will explore approaches to maximizing inclusivity in realms such as education, employment, community and beyond. Students will use their knowledge to design and develop (or revising and enhance) processes, systems, experiences and/or products to maximize inclusivity and the potential of neurodiverse individuals. Based on student's interests and areas of focus, projects may include digital tool development such as app concept and design, redesign of standard processes such as job interviews/ candidate evaluations, design and development of physical products or spaces such as sensory-sensitive dorm rooms, "stim tools" and more. All students taking this course will meet on Mondays; students taking this course for 4 units will also attend class on Wednesdays for "lab hours" which will support with project development. This course is open to undergraduate and graduate students in all schools.

    2. Peer mentor program (on hold): Current and incoming freshmen are paired with upperclassman peer mentors for the duration of the academic year. The peer mentors are trained by Stanford Neurodiversity Project staff and also receive ongoing supervision by staff. Students and peer mentors work through a mentoring curriculum, and peer mentors also provide support in a variety of areas as the need arises. 

    3. Neurodiversity Clinic: All students in the Neurodiverse Student Support Program will have an initial consultation in the ANC. Students with a need for ongoing mental health support or medication management can be seen in this clinic.

    4. Referrals: There are many resources on campus that, while not neurodiversity-specific, can nevertheless benefit students. Some of the offices that we refer students to as needed include: the Office of Accessible Education, Stanford Learning Lab, Schwab Learning Center, and BEAM career center. Referrals are provided on an individual basis, and we also assist students in navigating the various offices and procedures.

Application Process:

Neurodiverse students are able to apply throughout the school year and are admitted on a rolling basis as space allows. We believe that the earlier one get support, the better, so we encourage students to apply at the beginning of the year.  If you are interested in this program, please fill out the interest form below and we will contact you with more information.

As with all of the Stanford Neurodiversity Project's programs, there is no cost to participate in this program. You can contact us at stanfordneurodiversityproject@stanford.edu with any questions.