Alpha Elevate

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A Comprehensive Support Program for Autistic Students

Alpha Elevate is a university-based support program designed to empower autistic students by providing individualized academic, personal, social and career-focused support. Through a combination of one-on-one coaching, mentorship, skill-building workshops and campus integration initiatives, Alpha Elevate helps students develop the tools, strategies and confidence needed to navigate university life successfully while preparing for meaningful careers and independent adulthood.

Each student is paired with a Learning Specialist and may also work with a Peer Mentor who provides academic guidance, personal coaching, social support and campus navigation assistance to foster self-advocacy, independence and personal growth. By addressing both academic and non-academic challenges, Alpha Elevate supports students in building essential life skills, strengthening professional readiness, and successfully transitioning from college to career.

The program utilizes a strengths-based approach that recognizes and develops each student’s unique abilities while promoting confidence, resilience, community connection, and long-term success both during and beyond their college experience.

Support Resources

Holistic College Life Navigation

  • Campus Point of Contact
  • Addressing Non-Academic Challenges
    • Hygiene & Self-Care
    • Social Norms & Communication
    • Friendships & Relationship Building
    • Behavioral Challenges
  • Coaching on Key Life Transitions
    • Transitioning from home to independent campus life
    • Connecting with campus services for academic and personal well-being
    • Managing schedules, stress, and personal responsibilities
    • Incorporating self-management techniques into everyday routines
    • Developing coping strategies for anxiety, sensory overload, and social expectations
    • Role-playing and scripting for improved communication and social confidence
  • Goal Setting & Personal Development
    • Academic success strategies
    • Vocational planning and extracurricular engagement
    • Leadership and networking opportunities

Academic & Life Skills Development

  • Individualized Support Plans
  • Decision-Making & Self-Advocacy Training
  • Time Management & Organization
  • Regular Check-ins & Accountability

Career Support & Professional Development

  • Career Readiness Coaching
    • Developing interview skills, resume writing, and professional communication
    • Applying for internships, part-time jobs, and research opportunities
    • Understanding workplace expectations and professionalism
  • Internship & Job Connections
    • Exploring career pathways through internships aligned with students’ interests and majors
    • Partnering with businesses, organizations, and on-campus employment opportunities
    • Building transferable skills for long-term career success
  • Campus & Community Integration
    • Connecting students with appropriate university resources

Contact Alpha Elevate

Naoemi Gire
Executive Director of University Access Programs
nls12a@acu.edu
325-674-2699
ACU Box 29204
Abilene, TX 79699

 

Alpha Elevate is more than just a support program — it’s a community that fosters growth, self-confidence, and long-term success for autistic students. By combining academic mentoring, life coaching, career guidance, and social integration, students gain the skills necessary to thrive in college and beyond.