Navigators to Success Summer Transition Program

A Specialized Program for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

The Navigators to Success Summer Transition Program is a specialized college transition and success program intentionally designed for incoming Eastern Florida State College students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Developed through research and years of experience supporting neurodiverse learners, the program helps students successfully navigate the transition into the EFSC community by addressing the unique social, executive functioning, self-advocacy, communication, and campus navigation challenges that can accompany the move from high school to college.

Eighty percent of students with ASD have a GPA of 3.0 or higher (with 3.7 being the average), yet research suggests that only 39% of college students with ASD graduate. Students with ASD have tremendous potential but often find it difficult to navigate the academic, social, and personal demands of college life. Through individualized support, skill-building activities, peer connections, and guided engagement with EFSC's campuses, services, and resources, students gain the confidence, knowledge, and tools needed to begin their college journey successfully and thrive at Eastern Florida State College and beyond.

Who is this Program For?

The Navigators to Success summer transition program was created specifically for students who:

• Have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Are preparing to attend Eastern Florida State College
• Are transitioning into college for the first time
• May benefit from structured support in social engagement, self-advocacy, organization, executive functioning, and campus navigation
• Want to build confidence, independence, and meaningful connections within the college community before the start of their first semester

While students with ASD have diverse strengths and support needs, the program is intentionally designed to ease the transition into college life at EFSC by providing strategies, experiences, and connections that support a successful start to their educational journey.

Why this Program Matters

Why Navigators to Success?

Many students with ASD are academically capable and highly motivated, yet the transition from high school to college can present challenges that extend beyond the classroom. The Navigators to Success summer transition program was specifically created to help students make a confident and successful transition into Eastern Florida State College by developing practical college readiness and success skills, including:

• Self-advocacy and support-seeking
• Executive functioning and time management
• Social communication and relationship building
• Emotional regulation and adaptability
• Campus engagement and sense of belonging

By addressing these areas before students begin classes, participants enter their first semester at EFSC with greater confidence, preparation, familiarity with campus resources, and a stronger sense of connection to the college community.

Summer 2027 Application

Apply Online Now (Microsoft Form)

• When: Mondays - Thursdays, June 7 - July 1, 2027, 9 AM to 12 PM
• Where: EFSC Melbourne, 3865 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32935

Navigators to Success Program Details

This specialized summer transition program is designed specifically for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who are preparing to begin their educational journey at Eastern Florida State College. Every aspect of the program, including workshops, coaching, social activities, campus exploration, and skill-building exercises, is intentionally structured to support the unique strengths and transition needs of students as they prepare for college life at EFSC. Through hands-on experiences and guided exposure to campus resources, participants become more familiar with the expectations, opportunities, and support systems available to them before their first semester begins.

Students will engage in a variety of activities, including workshops, guest speakers, practical application of presented topics, and weekly gaming tournaments — plus explore college orientation materials, participate in social exercises and skills training, as well as academic pathway exploration and more. Through this program, students will not only learn but also have fun and build a sense of community as they get ready to start College classes.

Sample Weekly Schedule:

• Mondays: Workshop and Presentation
• Tuesdays: Skills practice
• Wednesdays: EFSC Guest Speaker and a fun activity
• Thursdays: Gaming tournament, snacks, and one-on-one coaching

Topics Covered:

• Social Excellence: Explore student life and campus community engagement.
• Adaptation & Regulation: Gain skills for support-seeking and coping in college.
• Time Management & Goal Setting: Learn strategies for successful college planning and structure.
• Career Planning: Discover and expand on career interests through academic pathway exploration.
• Classroom & Campus Exploration: Navigate the waves of EFSC with expert guidance.

For questions about the program, contact the Navigators to Success team at navigators@easternflorida.edu or 321-433-5939.