Hilary Wu

Joint Doctoral Ph.D. Program in Special Education

Hilary Wu is a PhD student under the supervision of Dr. Jeff Wood in the Department of Education. Her research focuses on the mental health and lived experiences of neurodivergent adults with marginalized identities, especially those who are first diagnosed in adulthood. Hilary is committed to helping neurodivergent adults thrive by supporting their mental health, self-understanding, and overall well-being. Her work is grounded in a strengths-based framework and guided by neurodiversity-affirming principles. Before pursuing her doctorate, Hilary spent over a decade working in special education in various roles, most recently as a special education teacher.

Education

  • M.A., Autism Spectrum Disorders, CSULA, 2021
  • Clear Education Specialist Credential, CSULA, 2021
  • Education Specialist Intern Credential, CSULA, 2019
  • B.A., Psychology, Cal Poly Pomona, 2013

Awards, Honors, and Fellowships

  • Louise Tyler Scholarship 2023 – 2024
  • Graduate Student and Faculty Mentor Recognition Honoree 2022 – 2025

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