My Place (Autism Services)
The My Place program provides enhanced support services to students on the autism spectrum who are enrolled in Kutztown University degree programs, following an application and interview process. These services augment the support that is provided through traditional academic accommodations and campus support services. The My Place program focuses on four major areas: executive function skills related to academics, career development, social skills, and independent college living.
have questions about the program?
Schedule a Zoom call with program Director Megan Rutter by emailing rutter@kutztown.edu. Calls can be scheduled for the Disability Services Office's open hours, 8 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, throughout the academic year.
Want to plan a trip to campus?! The My Place Program is happy to do in-person information sessions followed by a personal tour of campus by My Place Director and staff! To schedule, please email program Director Megan Rutter at rutter@kutztown.edu.
Program Goals
- Assist in the adjustment to college life by creating a sense of community and personal connection to the university.
- Develop self-advocacy skills through increased self-knowledge.
- Provide opportunities to learn and practice effective classroom etiquette and workplace readiness skills.
- Assist in the development of strategies and skills necessary for degree attainment and professional employment.
Program Levels
Gold Level Program (minimum 6 contact hours/week)
Students generally start and remain in this program for at least the first year at KU.
The Gold Level Program consists of one hour of one-on-one coaching, and a minimum of three hours of structured study hall (2 X weekly for 1.5 hours), one hour of group recreation or group activity, and one-hour group meal each week. Additionally, students are expected to participate in at least four social/group activities each semester, three special career events/conferences scheduled throughout the year, as well as at least 10 hours of volunteer work or employment during the summer months.
Maroon Level Program (minimum 3 contact hours/week)
The Maroon Level program is designed for freshmen and transfer commuter students as well as residential students who have participated in the Gold Level Program for at least one year.
The Maroon Level Program consists of one hour of one-on-one coaching, as well as two hours of career development coaching, structured study hall, group meal, or other activity depending upon the student's needs and goals. Additionally, students are expected to participate in at least two social/group activities each semester, three special career events/conferences scheduled throughout the year, as well as at least 10 hours of volunteer work or employment during the summer months.
Silver Level Program (approximately 1 contact hour/week)
The Silver Level Program is designed for students who have participated in the Gold Level Program and/or the Maroon Level Program and are nearing the end of their undergraduate studies. The focus of the Silver Level Program is on degree completion, internship/job search, graduate school planning, and transition to employment.
This program consists of bi-weekly one-on-one coaching sessions as well as other career development components. Additionally, students are invited to participate in all social/group activities as well as three special career events/conferences scheduled throughout the year.
Campus Living Features
- Access to sensory-reduced dining
- Access to a sensory-reduced study area
- 24-7 access to quiet/sensory room
- Specially trained peer mentors
- Upon request and availability, single room residence hall option
Please note: the My Place program does not provide assistance in the residence halls with daily living skills, personal hygiene, medication monitoring, or maintenance of the personal living environment. This program also does not provide learning support/academic skill development or therapeutic services such as behavioral support or psychological counseling.