Finding your way

It can be helpful to familiarise yourself with the key buildings around campus so that you feel confident in navigating the campus.

How might this affect me?

It can be stressful trying to find a building just before a teaching session or meeting. You may find it helpful to familiarise yourself with the buildings that are most relevant during your studies, for example, support services, your academic department and the buildings where your teaching is going to take place.

The information below can assist with familiarising yourself with the campus.

Attending Transition Event

We run a two-day event on Monday and Tuesday of the week before Welcome Week at the Edinburgh Campus. This event is an opportunity to come onto campus and meet key members of staff across the university as well as visit some of the different areas where you will be studying. More information is available on our Autism Support webpage.

Campus Tours during welcome week

You can book on to a guided campus tour. This is a good chance to see different areas of the campus so that you feel more confident about finding your classes in the first few weeks.

It is important to find places on campus where you feel comfortable.

Chaplaincy

This service promotes spiritual and social wellbeing. It is open to everyone - both students and staff - from all backgrounds and cultures. People of all faiths and no religious faiths are welcome. They run weekly events and have quiet spaces to sit.

Library

The library has a number of different types of study spaces and seating available to suit individual needs.

Practical Tips

You will be able to access your electronic timetable in advance of classes. It can be helpful to get to know the buildings and how to get to them once you have your timetable to avoid any last-minute stress. Your autism support worker can support you to find your way around campus. 

Who to tell about Autism

This section introduces the advantages of being open about your autism.

Background

It can be helpful to talk about your Autism and what this means to you. It can help you to feel more comfortable around others.

It may be that in the past your parents, teachers or others have helped you to communicate how your Autism affects you socially and educationally. At university, you will be supported by the Disability Team to communicate your needs, but you may also wish to speak with your tutors and peers.

How might this affect me?

At university, while you can ask for support from the disability service and information can be passed on to your department, you may choose to talk to your tutors and peers more about what this means. 

Practical Tips

Being open about your autism may reduce stigma and help others to understand how you can be supported.