If one were to look up “autism” in the medical dictionary, chances are he would find that it is a “spectrum” disorder.
    
The term “spectrum” is given to disorders that include a broad range of symptoms. In this particular case, “spectrum” disorder refers to the fact that people with autism can range from mild to severe. Autistic people can be bright and verbal, as well as intellectually disabled and non-verbal.
    
Those closest to the disorder tend to see it differently. Aside from its definition as a medical disorder, the word autisim is often associated with a pure heart and being very sensitive and finding a way to survive in an overwhelming, confusing world.
    
The University of Tennessee is aware of this aspect of autsim and funded a post-secondary education program called FUTURE. The program attempts to provide a future for those who suffer from autism or another intellectual disability.
    
As one of 27 states across the country awarded funding, the two-year program is designed for those who have completed high school without earning a regular high school diploma. Since every case is different, this non-residential program will ensure individualized academic, social, vocational and independent living skills to students between the ages of 18 to 29 who suffer from intellectual disabilities.
    
FUTURE is hoping to get students involved in becoming tutors or workout mentors for the program. Participation in FUTURE will provide students with a local or regional option for continuing their education beyond high school to increase employment opportunities.
    
“We are very excited about this opportunity for FUTURE students and encourage everyone to participate,” Elizabeth Fussell, FUTURE program director, said.
    
University student volunteers, or educational mentors, have the opportunity to meet different groups of people. Mentors with FUTURE students can build new relationships during their college experience.
    
Independent study course credit is available to qualified mentors. FUTURE students audit one UT course and one prep course. They are required to take core courses with the FUTURE Program. The program will also feature an individualized schedule for each student based on personal career aspirations achieved through a people-focused planning process. Mentors are asked to work two hours or more a week with students, such as speaking to students about life skills.
   
 Other activities include going to lunch together, introducing students to their friends, including students in extracurricular activities such as basketball games, and exercising with students. Mentors sometimes create a compilation of pictures and videos of a FUTURE student’s college experience.
    
“People need to understand that suffering from something, whether it is autism, multiple sclerosis or even ADD is just a small part of who and what a person is, and who they can be,” Monica Calvillo, freshman in chemistry, said. “If given the opportunity a person can really achieve some truly amazing things, and I am proud my school is helping people get that chance.”
     
To sign up or for more information, contact Sarah Whisman, FUTURE volunteer coordinator,at sbraunre@utk.edu.