Autism Transition to Adulthood Initiative (ATTAIN)

The current focus of ATTAIN is a project called Identifying Activities Linked to Improved Outcomes for Autistic Youth. This multi-year research project aims to identify in-school experiences, called predictors, that are linked to positive post-school outcomes – such as getting a job, going to college/university, or participating in the community – for Autistic transition-aged youth. It also aims to explore factors that increase this population’s two- and four-year college retention, academic achievement, and completion. 

To determine what steps Autistic young people can take to achieve better outcomes and how programs can better serve these young people, we will conduct research to:

• Identify predictors of getting a job, going to college/university, and engaging in common adult life experiences – such as driving a car and holding a relationship – for Autistic youth, with a primary focus on getting a job.
• Explore factors that increase two- and four-year college retention, academic achievement, and completion. 

Our research findings will:

• Support teachers, transition specialists, program directors, and others in creating more effective, individualized plans for post-school employment.
• Support beneficial education and training activities after high school.
• Encourage a range of adult life experiences for Autistic young people. 

Information about what makes it hard for Autistic people to get and maintain employment can also inform program designers to better serve Autistic young people.