Comprehensive Guide for Disabled Students Navigating College Life


The above picture is of a young man sitting in a wheelchair outside some buildings holding books and a pen and smiling.

Comprehensive Guide for Disabled Students Navigating College Life

College can be a thrilling period of discovering new knowledge and finding oneself. When given the necessary assistance and adjustments, students with disabilities can thrive academically and join in on extracurricular activities. Sadly, these students often find that access problems, such as non-functioning elevators, inaccurately placed Braille signs, and damaged wheelchair ramps, hinder their ability to attend classes consistently and fully participate in campus life.

 

To be more accommodating to all students, including those with disabilities, universities should embrace the social model of disability. This model emphasizes universal design, which entails the creation of buildings and structures that are accessible and secure for everyone. Additionally, if articulating your unique experiences and perspectives feels challenging while seeking university admission, you can ask DoMyEssay to write your admission essay. It's vital for students with disabilities to confidently voice their needs and actively pursue the support they require.

 

Oscar Gonzalez, currently serving as the senior director of accessibility resources at Minnesota State University, confirms that every student with disabilities has equal chances to pursue advanced studies. He advises individuals to embrace their disabilities and recognize their influence on their personal experiences. Remembering that one is not alone and should be open to requesting support and accommodations is essential.

 

Knowing Your Student Rights

 

Federal law protects students with disabilities, allowing them to engage in American society fully. Acts like the Rehabilitation Act of 1973's Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) safeguard these students from discrimination and impose obligations on educational institutions and public entities.

 

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), enacted in 1990, was designed to foster a more inclusive environment for those with disabilities. The ADA offers a range of protections and sets standards for accessibility in employment, public transportation, and telecommunications. Title II and Title III of the ADA require that public and private spaces, including college campuses, are accessible to everyone. This means that public or private universities must ensure that disabled students can safely enter buildings, fully participate in classes, and engage in extracurricular activities. The ADA also outlines the accommodations colleges should provide, such as communication aids for those with hearing, vision, or speech impairments, reasonable modifications to university policies and practices, and accessibility standards for new and renovated buildings.

 

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 guarantees non-discrimination for college students with disabilities. Colleges and universities that receive federal funding must provide accommodations for disabled students, allowing them to participate in classroom activities and educational programs fully. These accommodations may include extra time for exams, recording devices, and sign language interpreters. In contrast, K-12 students receive more personalized support in identifying and welcoming accommodations. College students are obligated to reveal their disability and furnish their institution with formal medical records. Colleges usually have an office or website that explains the steps students should follow to document their disability. It is recommended that students begin this process early in the school year to ensure that the necessary accommodations are put in place.

 

The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) is legislation passed by Congress to update the telecommunications protections for individuals with disabilities. Previous laws had ensured accessibility for telephones and televisions but struggled to keep pace with advancing technology. The CVAA aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access the latest technology, such as broadband, digital, and mobile innovations, which the act is named after. The CVAA is divided into two main sections. Title I mandates broadband products and services, including smartphones, are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. Title II focuses on making it easier for individuals with disabilities to access video programming on television and the Internet. This mandates the captioning for programs and their replays on online streaming services. For college students with disabilities, the act ensures equitable access to essential information and communication tools, vital for academic achievement. The act's provisions regarding internet-based communication technologies demand captioning, descriptive audio, and other accessibility features for public-facing websites and course materials. This ensures that disabled students, whether on campus or online, can utilize technology for their education. The act supports specific classroom accommodations and ensures all students have an equal opportunity to learn and engage in campus life.

 

The Assistive Technology Act, initially authorized by Congress in 1988, aims to increase knowledge and availability of support services and tools that aid individuals in education, work, and other daily activities. This legislation grants each state to assist in offering services to people with disabilities. Examples of low-tech supportive tools and services include wheelchair ramps, special parking permissions, and books in large print. Medium-tech options include enlarged computer keyboards and audiobooks. High-tech gadgets are computer-based and include voice recognition software, screen readers, and voice-activated environment controls.

 

Evaluating Campus Disability Services

 

Choosing the right college can be difficult for students with disabilities due to their unique requirements. It is essential to thoroughly research a school before applying, paying attention to its inclusivity, accessibility, and willingness to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

 

A school's capability to support students can be determined by the size of its disability services department. A more extensive staff in this department indicates a higher likelihood of offering vast resources and accommodations.

 

Go to the school's website and check out its social media pages. Look for information about the disability resource center and any clubs or groups that cater to students with disabilities and those who have neurodivergent conditions.

 

Students choosing to visit college campuses physically can make the most of their visit by acquainting themselves with the institution and its disability services department. Moreover, they can check out the financial aid section, cafeteria, and health services units. The school might provide virtual tours if an in-person visit is not feasible.

 

To arrange a meeting and inquire about some issues, please email or call to set up an appointment with specific departments.

 

Gonzalez suggests that you inquire about the following things.

 

     Can you schedule a meeting with a campus representative to discuss your accommodations? In what ways will they assist you? Additionally, which specific resources do they provide?

     Are there suitable programs offered by this college or university for your requirements? Is there a community available for students with disabilities on the campus?

     Are any scholarships offered to students with disabilities who wish to enroll at that college or university?

 

After determining the specific accommodations you will require, Gonzalez advises assessing the institution's level of support services in terms of quality. These services encompass:

 

     Academic or career guidance and preparation

     Professional development and employment opportunities that match your passions and abilities

     Providing shelter, job opportunities, and assistance with money matters

     Services that promote well-being about one's social, physical, and mental health.

 

Regarding how family and friends can assist disabled students, Gonzales mentioned several vital ways individuals can provide support while the student is transitioning to college. It is critical to foster independence and self-expression by assisting students in organizing their schedules and tasks, communicating with professors, and seeking assistance whenever necessary.

 

 

 

Furthermore, it is crucial to have open conversations about how disabilities affect students' lives and identify their requirements for success while fostering a safe environment for others to share their personal encounters. When accompanying a student to their initial disability services appointment, it is crucial to prioritize the student's perspective and encourage them to be their advocate.

 

Paying for College

 

Many financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available for students with disabilities. Help is accessible at both the federal and state levels. As an example, Federal Pell Grants do not necessitate repayment. Students with disabilities might also benefit from government aid programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

 

Scholarships are also provided by nonprofits, schools, and other businesses, which can be added to the financial aid received from the government and state, resulting in a significant decrease in college costs.

 

Scholarships, including the Sertoma Hard of Hearing or Deaf Scholarship and the National Federation of the Blind Scholarship Program, are accessible to students with disabilities.

 

FAQ

 

What term do you use to address students who have disabilities?

 

The disability community is divided when it comes to language. Some individuals favor using identity-first language, referring to themselves as disabled individuals. On the other hand, some prefer person-first language, referring to themselves as individuals with disabilities. Using the language of an individual's choice is the ideal choice. It should not be assumed that everyone has the same language preference.

 

What is a disability resource center?

 

Disability services offices are commonly found in colleges and universities, providing assistance and accommodations such as assistive technology, note-taking support, and extended exam time.

 

 

 

Instructors and other campus departments can collaborate with these centers and offices to offer various services, including smaller class sizes, priority registration for classes, and unique accommodations for housing and parking, alongside other benefits. Students can also find tutors and attend workshops at specific colleges to acquire study skills.

 

Is it possible for students who have disabilities to enroll in college?

 

Certainly! Having a disability does not imply incapability. It suggests that students may need to discover innovative methods to overcome obstacles. Individuals with disabilities frequently pursue and successfully graduate from college, venturing into the professional world. This is the reason for the existence of disability laws, enabling students with disabilities to be educated together with their peers who do not have disabilities. Familiarize yourself with the different types of assistance provided by various colleges. By receiving the appropriate support, students with disabilities have the potential to thrive academically.

 

What difficulties do disabled students encounter?

 

There is a diverse range of disabilities, encompassing learning, physical, and psychological disabilities, as well as health issues and impairments related to vision, hearing, and speech.

Students with disabilities might encounter difficulties while studying in conventional educational settings for different reasons, such as sensitivities to sensory stimuli, limited physical mobility, or challenges related to subject-specific coursework. Students who have disabilities may encounter individualized transportation requirements as well as financial hardships and discrimination based on their disabilities. These students must seek assistance from the disability offices, campus groups, organizations, and other support systems within their school.