A new program at the University of California-Los Angeles is helping individuals with autism improve their social skills. 

The 16-week program is intended to help anybody with autism make and keep friends and improve their social skills as they enter college.

"I was feeling lonely," said 25-year-old Joey Juarez, who has high-function autism on his struggle at college.

Program participants practice social situations such as starting a conversation in a polite way. 

"From there, we talk about pier entry and exiting. That’s just going up to people and starting a conversation," said Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson. 

Among the social skill tips taught in the program – using a cell phone as a prop enter a conversation so as not appear as if you are eavesdropping. 

Researchers say they have seen improved social skills as a result of the program. 

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