<p>Ah, okay, now I have a better idea of what the specific needs and challenges might be. I’m surprised that someone in the admissions office would say that autism spectrum students have a tendency to drop out, especially because it’s not true. Though I’m sure that it is true that they are seeing more and more autistic students on campus, and that not everyone in the administration or the faculty understands what that means or what special accommodations are required. But I wouldn’t say that reflects the attitude of the college as a whole, there are lots of people in the world who misunderstand or have no understanding of what autism really is. Some of them are apparently employed at Smith and you had the unfortunate luck to talk to them. I would talk to people from Disability Services, who will actually know what you’re saying when you say “autism”</p>
<p>But MeredithBelle has done a good job of truthfully answering your questions regarding your wishlist. And just to clarify a point in her post - Yes, it is very easy to get notetakers and extra exam time. Disability services frequently arranges this for students with dyslexia that I know of, so they must do the same for autistic students. They will also help you if you need to change houses because your house is too noisy or need to change rooms (like to a single), or give you special dispensations if you need equipment or appliances installed (even including air conditioners) due to a medical necessity. </p>
<p>Dining services will prepare special meals for people with allergies, but you won’t need special meals prepared to eat healthfully. There are always vegan/veggie options available, and always a well stocked salad bar as well, so even if the main course is not to your liking you’ll find other things to eat. A lot of it will be on you though to make good choices about your food. </p>
<p>As for counseling services, it’s mostly geared toward long-term therapy by appointment though they will do crisis counseling if you really need it, especially if you are a regular long-term patient. However, you will need to purchase the Smith College Health Insurance plan if you know you’re going to need long term counseling and you want it on campus. People not on the insurance plan get only a certain number of visits to the on campus counselors. However (again) there are many qualified therapists in the Northampton area, so if you decide not to or cannot purchase the Smith plan but have insurance through your parents, you may still be able to find a good therapist within walking distance of the campus. A quick google search or a search through your insurance company’s website should tell you who is nearby.</p>