Autism Initiative at Mercyhurst climbs to new heights with CREATE

Mercyhurst University strives to reach new heights as high school students on the autism spectrum participate in this year's CREATE, a college simulation program designed to evaluate their readiness for college life.

Under the direction of Amanda Mulder, the Autism Initiative at Mercyhurst (AIM) is “upping its game” when it comes to acclimating neurodiverse students to academic, social, and vocational climates in Erie. Its CREATE program is part of that growth.

This summer, CREATE is hosting 22 students with Autism Spectrum Disorder as they navigate the challenges associated with college life. During the three-week program, students will live and dine on campus, participate in courses and workshops, as well as experience vocational opportunities with Erie businesses.  

“The college simulation experience does not guarantee that students will be ready for college but does guarantee to help them find out if they are ready for college,” Mulder said. 

On July 22, students will participate in The Amazing Race, a pinnacle of the CREATE program that is a challenge-based activity to help participants strengthen their decision-making capabilities. Throughout the challenge, students will visit UPMC Park, Erie Art Museum, Perry Square, Erie Maritime Museum, Bicentennial Tower, and Erie Land Lighthouse.

“We love this event so much because the students get to make decisions and, for many of them, it is the first time they have ever had power over their own lives,” Mulder said. “It is truly phenomenal to watch them succeed in this event.” 

In one challenge, students are tasked with asking a stranger to sing “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

“The CREATE program is all about challenging students in a safe space to help them grow,” Mulder explained. “At the end of the day, they not only realize how successful they have been and take pride in developing these skills but have also gotten to see the beauty of Erie.” 

Mulder said these activities are “rigorous” but also necessary to prove to the students that they can accomplish things that only a small percentage of the population dares to do.

As the program concludes, students and parents are provided with an individualized evaluation of their strengths and weaknesses as well as a personalized plan on how to prepare for campus life. The students complete the program with an awards ceremony to recognize their accomplishments. 

Meanwhile, Mulder has big plans to increase AIM’s enrollment and opportunities this coming academic year, which include a vocational cooking program, a hiking trip, and an Autism Awareness Hockey Game. 

PHOTO: CREATE students enjoy a road trip to the peninsula.