Empowering Your College Journey: A Comprehensive Guide to Requesting Accommodations

The ADD Resource Center/Harold R. Meyer  09/16/2024

As you embark on your college adventure, it’s crucial to understand that seeking accommodations is not just your right—it’s a powerful tool for academic success. This guide will walk you through the process of requesting and obtaining the support you need to thrive in your studies, whether you have learning disabilities, physical impairments, sensory impairments, chronic health conditions, psychological disorders, or other disabilities.

 Know Your Rights

You are protected by law. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act ensure that colleges provide reasonable academic accommodations to disabled students and maintain ADA compliance to prevent disability discrimination. Remember, these laws are on your side!

> “Knowing your rights is the first step towards advocating for yourself and becoming an effective self-advocate.” – Sarah, a successful graduate with ADHD

 Identify Your Needs

Take a moment to reflect on your unique challenges and strengths. What specific accommodations would help you excel? Common accommodations include:

– Extended time on exams

– Distraction-reduced testing environment

– Note-taking assistance, e.g., scribe, recording

– Preferential seating

– Assistive technology

– Alternative format for readings

Make a list of these needs—they’ll be your roadmap to success. Disability services offices can help you determine what accommodations you qualify for.

Do not ask for accommodations that will not assist you

 Gather Your Documentation

Before approaching your college’s Disability Services Office, gather supporting documentation to verify disability. This typically includes:

1. A recent evaluation from a qualified professional

2. A detailed description of your disability and when you were first made aware of it and took action that can be documented

3. Recommendations for specific accommodations

Pro tip: Keep digital copies of all your documents for easy access and sharing. Make a back-up

 Connect with Disability Services

Now it’s time to contact your college’s Disability Services Office. Here’s how:

1. Locate the office on your campus directory

2. Schedule an appointment (in-person or virtual) with a disability specialist

3. Bring a copy of your documentation and list of needs

Please keep in mind the following: These professionals are here to support you. It’s important to be open and honest about your challenges and the goals you hope to achieve with their support. They can assist you in developing educational plans and connecting you with campus resources and academic support programs.

Confidentiality of Your Information

It’s crucial to understand that Disability Services Departments are required by law to keep your information confidential. This is mandated by several federal laws, including:

1. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
2. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
3. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

Here’s what this means for you:

• Your disability status and specific accommodations are kept private.
• Information about your disability is not included in your general academic record.
• Disability Services staff cannot disclose your disability or accommodations to your professors or other staff without your explicit permission.
• If you choose to disclose your disability to a professor, they are also bound by confidentiality rules.

This confidentiality ensures that:

• You have control over who knows about your disability.
• You can seek accommodations without fear of discrimination or stigma.
• Your private medical information remains protected.

Remember, while Disability Services will inform your professors about your approved accommodations, they will not disclose the nature of your disability unless you specifically request them to do so.

If you ever feel that your confidentiality has been breached, don’t hesitate to discuss this with the Disability Services Office, your college’s compliance officer, or a disability rights attorney

 Communicate with Your Professors

Once your accommodations are approved, inform your professors. Here’s a template to help you start the conversation:

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Dear Professor [Name],

I’m enrolled in your [Course Name] class this semester and wanted to inform you that I have approved accommodations through the Disability Services Office. I’d appreciate the opportunity to discuss how we can implement these accommodations in your course.

Would you be available for a brief meeting to go over this?

Thank you for your time and understanding,

[Your Name]

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Please ensure that you document everything.

Faculty engagement is key to ensuring you receive the support you need. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors throughout the semester.

 Monitor and Adjust

Your needs may change as you progress through your college journey. Don’t hesitate to:

– Regularly assess the effectiveness of your accommodations

– Communicate with Disability Services if adjustments are needed

– Seek additional support like academic counseling if you face new challenges

 You’re Not Alone

Remember, seeking accommodations is a sign of self-awareness and determination, not weakness. You’re taking control of your education and setting yourself up for success!

For more support and resources, check out:

– The A.D.D. Resource Center (https://www.addrc.org/ is a comprehensive resource for information on ADHD and related conditions. It offers articles, tools, and support for students with ADHD.

– Your college’s counseling services

– Student-led disability advocacy groups on campus

 Tips for Freshmen

If you’re just starting your college journey, here are some additional tips:

1. Keep a journal: For a week, note any difficulties you encounter. This can help you identify patterns and specific needs.

2. Prepare a personal statement: Briefly explain how your condition affects your studies.

3. Follow up after meetings: Send an email summarizing what was discussed and track any deadlines for submitting additional documentation.

4. Document everything.

 Resources and Support

You’re not in this alone! Here are some additional resources to help you along the way:

– National Center for College Students with Disabilities

– AHEAD – Association on Higher Education And Disability

– Your college’s student support services (e.g., test proctoring, ASL interpreters)

Remember: Asking for accommodations isn’t about getting an unfair advantage – it’s about leveling the playing field so you can showcase your true potential!

By taking these steps, you’re setting yourself up for success in your college journey. Disability awareness is growing on college campuses, and the best colleges for disabled students provide comprehensive support.

For over 30 years, Harold Robert Meyer and The ADD Resource Center have provided expert ADHD support through:

• Comprehensive services for individuals, families, and organizations:
  • Personalized guidance and education
  • Behavioral intervention strategies
  • Support for healthcare providers, educators, and industry
• Evidence-based resources:
  • Informative articles and publications
  • Workshops and seminars
• Advocacy to promote understanding and reduce stigma

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