Finishing Strong: How Academic Coaches Support AuDHD Students at Semester’s End

As the fall semester winds down, college students with AuDHD (Autism and ADHD) face a unique set of challenges. The combination of these neurodivergent traits can bring both strengths and obstacles, especially in a demanding academic environment. For students with AuDHD, the end of the semester often means racing deadlines, group projects, and final exams—all of which require a level of focus, time management, and stress tolerance that can feel overwhelming.

Academic coaches play a critical role in helping AuDHD students navigate this high-stakes period. Through tailored strategies, coaches work to harness the strengths of these students—such as creativity, unique problem-solving approaches, and a strong attention to detail. They help break down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps, set realistic goals, and establish routines that make success attainable, not just in academics but in the broader areas of self-care and mental health.

For instance, a coach might work with an AuDHD student to develop a weekly schedule that balances study time with necessary breaks, using tools like visual planners or digital reminders. They may also teach techniques to manage sensory overload in noisy study environments or strategies to reduce procrastination through rewarding small accomplishments.

The end of the semester is a time of high pressure, but with the support of an academic coach, AuDHD students can focus on their strengths, build on effective coping skills, and head into exams feeling more prepared and less overwhelmed. With the right strategies, they can finish the semester strong and carry those skills into future academic success.