Why Arden
Find out who we are and why Arden is the choice for students worldwide.
At Arden, we’re proud to celebrate the individuality of every student. Neurodiversity is a vital part of who we are as a community. It’s about recognising and valuing the many different ways people think, learn, and achieve success.
Our neurodivergent students bring creativity, resilience, and unique perspectives that enrich the whole Arden experience. By sharing their stories, they hope to encourage others, highlight the strengths of neurodiversity, and remind every student that they belong here.
Our students share their stories
“I am definitely highly sensitive, and probably have ADHD (though currently undiagnosed). I display the typical paradoxical tendencies that make ADHD so complex: difficulty focusing and hyperfocus, procrastination and bursts of productivity, creativity and disorganisation.” – Jennifer, PG Cert in Neurodiversity
“I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Condition in December 2021, at the age of 24, but deep down, I had always known I was different. Growing up was incredibly hard; my childhood felt lonely and confusing, filled with struggles in school where I failed most of my GCSEs.” – Andrew, Project Management
“I'm neurodivergent in a few overlapping ways. While I don't have a formal diagnosis yet, I experience traits consistent with dyslexia and other forms of neurodivergence. I tend to process information visually and spatially, thinking in patterns and systems rather than linear sequences.” – Reita, BA Computing graduate
“Since I was a child, my hyperactivity has been significantly visible. I often had difficulties in school, due to not being able to focus for a long time. I often ended up in trouble as I loved doing some crazy and silly things to cheer up the atmosphere in class.” – Caesar, BSc (Hons) Psychology
The strengths of neurodivergence
“One of the most precious advantages of my neurodivergence, I feel, is my incredibly strong intuition.” – Jennifer
“Being autistic gives me a unique perspective and a set of strengths that shape how I approach the world. I naturally notice the small details others might overlook. When I'm passionate about something, I can hyperfocus deeply, putting all my energy into doing it right.” – Andrew
“It allows me to identify connections that aren't immediately obvious, across topics, disciplines, and ideas. I excel at building systems and frameworks, and I express myself most effectively through visuals and layered concepts.” – Reita
“I primarily value ADHD for the energy it gives me, the creativity through which I can express myself, and the focus. However, to achieve a high level of focus, I have to do something from the heart, something that truly interests me; then time warps.” – Caesar
What we want others to know
“The journey of understanding one’s neurodivergence doesn’t follow a linear path. Like waves, insight, adaptation, and healing come in surges. Unexpected, powerful, and overwhelming.” – Jennifer
“Being neurodiverse is something to be proud of. Yes, there are challenges, but there are also powerful moments of success. By being more aware and creating more inclusive, supportive environments, we can all live happier, more connected lives together.” – Andrew
“Neurodivergence isn’t a single, uniform experience. It manifests differently in each person, and not everyone has a formal diagnosis. Flexibility, openness, and empathy can make a significant difference.” – Reita
“I would like people to be aware that if I do not reply, it is not because I do not care, but because I have probably found something more stimulating that occupies my attention. If I do not reply for more than three days, please send a reminder.” – Caesar
Learning in different ways
“It was only after starting at Arden that I began to be kinder and less perfectionistic with myself. I’ve greatly benefited from body-doubling sessions and the Pomodoro technique, even in 10-minute chunks when times were tough.” – Jennifer
“Being autistic has shaped the way I approach learning in powerful and positive ways. My autism helps me think differently, approach problems creatively, and stay committed to my goals.” – Andrew
“I rely heavily on visuals, colour-coding, and tools like AI or voice notes to process and retain information. Rather than following standard academic approaches, I create systems that align with my thinking style.” – Reita
“Thanks to ADHD, I am able to keep my demanding job as a truck driver, pursue my studies, and manage everyday life. Hyperfocus on topics that interest me and my ability to divide attention are certainly due to my ADHD.” – Caesar
Support from Arden
“I have felt strongly supported by Arden’s Success Coaching. When I transferred programmes, I was guided by empathetic tutors who helped me reflect on some challenging academic and career decisions.” – Jennifer
“My journey at Arden has been filled with incredible support. Arden also stepped in with practical support, like providing lecture notes and extended deadlines, which were crucial for my success.” – Andrew
“Arden has created an environment where I feel comfortable requesting accommodations when necessary, such as extensions. Most practical support has come through my own initiative, but Success Coaching has been especially valuable.” – Reita
“Thanks to Arden, I was able to re-diagnose myself and confirm that the ADHD I had as a child hadn’t disappeared but had shifted into ADD. They offered me extra time for assignments, financial support, one-on-one appointments, and wellbeing resources.” – Caesar
Advice for new students
“I would encourage them to connect with the Success Coaching team, but also to seek out like-minded peers. The Neurodiversity Network and ADHD/Autism Forums are great places to start.” – Jennifer
“Trust me, I've been there. If you're starting university and feeling unsure, you are capable of much more than you think. Apply for the Disabled Students' Allowance; it made all the difference for me.” – Andrew
“Trust your learning style and don’t wait for permission to adapt approaches that aren’t working for you. Connect with other students who share similar experiences.” – Reita
“Don’t be afraid to take a step. We are a collective of people who have gone through various struggles in life, and our superpowers aren’t always understood or accepted. Let your voice be heard.” – Caesar
Celebrating difference, building belonging
At Arden, we believe that education should adapt to you, not the other way around. The voices of our neurodivergent students show how, with the right support, individuality can be a strength and difference can drive success.
If you’re starting your journey with us, remember: you don’t have to do it alone. Arden’s support services, Success Coaches, and student networks are here to help you thrive.
To hear even more student perspectives, tune into The Different Podcast, co-hosted by Arden students Reita and Emma: Listen on Spotify.
