April is Autism Awareness Month: What is Autism?

🗓️ April 3, 2026

✍🏾 Rikaiya Long

April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month! This month was designated as a time for people to celebrate their talents, raise awareness, and promote inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum. We’re going to discuss what autism is, what it looks like, and how we can best support our neurodivergent Bison! 

What is Autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental difference that primarily affects how a person thinks, perceives, and interacts with others. Being autistic means you may feel emotions and react to situations differently than non-autistic people. Autism is a lifelong neurodivergence and disability. Autistic people often feel tired or confused when socializing and overwhelmed by noisy places. They may have intense interests, prefer order and routine, and use repeated movements to calm themselves and express joy. 

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that in the United States alone, 1 in 31 children and 1 in 45 adults are affected by autism. There is not just one form of autism but many, hence why you may have heard the statement, “Autism is a spectrum”. It looks different for everyone, each with a unique set of strengths and challenges. For instance, some autistic people are nonverbal, while others have little issues speaking verbally. Some have intellectual disabilities, while some do not. 

Autism is not a learning disability nor a mental health condition. Autistic people can experience both, individually, though. 

How is it Diagnosed?

On average, autism is diagnosed around age 5 in the U.S, as signs begin appearing as early as 2 or 3 years old. ASD diagnosis is split into three categories based on the amount of support that a person may need: level 1, level 2, and level 3. To receive a diagnosis, multiple healthcare professionals must agree that you show “core characteristics” of autism. 

These core characteristics are outlined by communication, behaviors, interests and sensory processing. People with autism may use and understand words and tone of voice, and body language differently, causing them to communicate differently from non-autistic people. Repeated behaviors and strict interests must be seen as affecting everyday function to receive a diagnosis. This includes having or showing focus on dedicated interests, repeated movements and behavior, and a preference for order, predictability, or routine. These behaviors can be known as stimming (stimulatory) or self-soothing ways that they keep themselves happy. Lastly, autistic people can be significantly more or less sensitive to the five senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell) than people without autism. 

How Can I Find Support?

There are many national organizations committed to supporting Autistic students, specifically as they navigate the struggles and anxieties of college, including the Autism Society and College Autism Network. At Howard University, the best administrative offices to contact for support (for yourself or others) would be the Office of Student Accessibility and the Office of Student Services. The Office of Student Accessibility provides support through programming and processing requests for reasonable accommodations. The Office of Student Services offers a broader range of support, including mental health counseling and testing.