What is Emory Oaks?
Emory Oaks is a support program for autistic students enrolled at Emory University. Participating students have access to a staff member who we call a Support Navigator (SN). The SN meets with students regularly (e.g., weekly) to get to know the student in terms of their goals, gifts, interests and strengths, and to develop a strong rapport. From there, the SN and the student work collaboratively to identify goals and the SN is there as a support ensure that students indeed access the supports and services that the need or desire. The SN will not only make referrals, but truly partner with the student in getting to know new people and services and advocating along with the student.
Emory Oaks is aligned with programs that are part of the College Autism Network (CAN). Learn more about CAN.
How do I qualify for Emory Oaks?
You have to have been admitted to Emory University through their typical admissions process and have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. If you do not already have a current diagnosis, please feel free to reach out to our staff for assistance in accessing an evaluation.
What are some common supports autistic students at Emory access?
We like to think of this as a “menu,” and each student selects different options based on their own goals and gifts as a student and future professional. Common items include:
- Establishing academic accommodations with the Department of Accessibility Services
- Receiving support from the Emory Pathways Center
- Connecting with a neurodivergent, neurotypical and/or career mentor(s)
- Accessing mental wellness supports, including individual counseling and/or medication management from a provider with expertise in autism
- Connecting to peer, student and community organizations with common interests, activities and values
- Academic Coaching supports through the Office for Undergraduate Education
- Training and support for academic departments, student support services, student organizations and the larger community
- And more!
How do I apply for Emory Oaks?
After you have been admitted to Emory University, contact Emory Oaks staff to inquire about next steps. See Prospective Students page to learn more.
Who does Emory Oaks support?
Emory Oaks is open to all enrolled students at Emory University. This includes both graduate and undergraduate students on both the Atlanta and Oxford campuses.
How much does Emory Oaks cost?
The cost of Emory Oaks is $4000/semester. Fees can be offset by registering with Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency and those that currently receive need-based financial aid will have access to scholarship funds. Please contact Emory Oaks staff with questions and concerns regarding the cost of the program.
Is there any sort of GPA requirement to participate?
As long as you are enrolled at Emory University, you are able to participate in Emory Oaks regardless of current GPA.
Is Emory Oaks for degree-seeking students? Or a certificate program?
Emory Oaks is for degree-seeking Emory University students (i.e., you must be admitted to Emory University through their typical admissions process) and is not an Inclusive Postsecondary Education program (for more information about IPSE certificate programs, check out the Georgia Inclusive Postsecondary Education Consortium and Think College.
Can I participate if I am enrolled at another college?
At present, we are only providing Support Navigation to Emory University students. But if you are a student (or employee) at another institution, please contact us. We would be delighted to learn more about your questions, goals, support needs, training needs or anything else; if we can help or point you in the right direction, we would love to!