August 29, 2024

The summer of 2024 marked the fourth year of the Autism Institute's Summer Scholars program, a program designed to introduce college students to autism research. This program was made possible by funding from the PHASES grant and Institute funding. Four undergraduate students were selected out of 23 applicants: Alejandro Amador Deulofeu from the University of Pennsylvania, Sydney (Syd) Defreitas from The College of New Jersey, Maya Gerlach from Howard University, and Maddie Ryan from Penn State University. These four students worked within different research program areas under the mentorship of researchers at the Autism Institute.

Over the course of the 8-week program, the Summer Scholars focused on learning about specific areas of research, but also were introduced to a wide variety of topics related to public health autism research. The scholars learned about grant funding, the research cycle, the autistic experience from both self-advocates and family advocates and even potential career paths. The students had opportunities to see research happening in real time during their clinic observation. They also helped lead a book club and later meet the author and they volunteered at an Aramark Hiring event for individuals with autism and other disabilities, hosted by the Drexel Business Inclusion Center. Both Alejandro and Maddie later shared that the job fair was their favorite day because they were ‘able to see the real impact that the work of Autism Institute has on the community’.

At the end of the 8-week period, the students presented to the AJDAI staff and faculty, sharing their experiences. During the presentation, they highlighted key insights from their program areas, discussed their individual research projects, and shared their most significant takeaways from the program. Several of the students said that they really enjoyed having a variety of ways to learn about autism research, whether it was through the didactics, the project work or the volunteering as it gave a well-rounded experience as a summer scholar. Additionally, they shared that having the chance to have this cohort to share this experience with, and to create a final presentation with was a very rewarding part of the program and something that was a very special part of their summer.

As the Summer Scholars program concludes its fourth year, it’s clear that the experience has left an indelible mark on both the students and the Autism Institute. These budding researchers not only gained valuable insights into the complexities of autism research but also contributed meaningfully to the Institute's ongoing work. Their enthusiasm, dedication, and fresh perspectives have been truly inspiring.