The Impact of COVID-19 on College Students with Autism: Implications for College Counselors

As a result of additional stressors encountered by individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the COVID-19 pandemic had a disproportionately greater impact on college students with ASD than the general college population. To address the unique concerns this population encountered as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, this qualitative study analyzed the data collected from student meetings of 75 students with ASD, who participated in a program from Fall 2017 to Fall 2021 for individuals with ASD to support them as they navigate their college experiences. The data analysis strategy of Thematic Analysis was implemented to identify five overarching themes that participants experienced including: mental health and emotional considerations, social concerns, personal autonomy adjustments, goal realization/achievements, and changes in opportunities. Limitations for the study and recommendations for future research are provided. © 2023 Taylor & Francis.

Evaluation of the Food Services of a Public University in Rio de Janeiro during the COVID-19 Pandemic

With the emergence of COVID-19, Food Services (FS) needed to adapt to the protocols established by health agencies to avoid the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Although there is no evidence of transmission of the virus through food, contagion can occur between food handlers and customers. In this study, the objective was to evaluate the measures implemented in a university FS in order to prevent the transmission and contagion of COVID-19. The methodology used was descriptive and quantitative. Data collection took place from July to October 2021, through the application of a checklist based on health standards for the prevention of transmission of COVID-19. The results showed that the FS demonstrated non-conformities in some items (28.9%), even though the changes made were in accordance with the guidelines of health agencies. The changes mainly refer to the recommendations of health protocols for the prevention of COVID-19 such as natural ventilation, reinforced cleaning, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - mask, informative posters, and physical distancing. It is concluded that it is necessary to put into practice the current regulations and correct the possible flaws so that the FS reach all the requirements required by the legislation in the prevention of the transmission of COVID-19. © 2022 Centro Universitario Sao Camilo. All rights reserved.