Students with ASD are frequently sensitive to sensory stimulation, which for them can become sensory overload. Sensory issues can become problematic when living in a small, shared space, where the student must live with the sounds and smells of others. It is important to consider what sensory difficulties might arise in the residence hall and how they may escalate into problems.

​

Examples of potential overstimulating factors include:

• Lights

• Music

• Crowds

• Scents (body odors, cologne, burnt popcorn)

• Fire alarms

• Room arrangement

• Typical residence hall noise

(Wolf, Brown, & Bork, 2009)