College Search for Students with Learning Differences
The transition from high school to college is daunting for most students, but the anxiety is intensified for students with learning disabilities. They wonder if they’ll be able to keep up and fit in.
Here are 3 tips to help you identify college campuses that could best fit, academically and socially, the needs of a student with learning differences.
Understand your disability and its impact
Write down the specific areas that present difficulties for you. Be able to identify the range of problems you might encounter at college and more importantly, be able to articulate the kinds of accommodations and services that would improve your situation – (extended testing times, note takers, reading machines, tutors).
Understand your strengths
What kinds of compensatory skills have you developed to accommodate your learning differences? Begin researching colleges with types of programs that meet your needs. The K&W Guide to Colleges Programs & Services for Students with Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHDD) is a good resource to reference.
3. Visit campuses
While classes are in session, if possible, meet with admission and special support service coordinators. Ask to meet students utilizing the college’s learning differences or disabilities support services, perhaps over lunch, so you can have an informal discussion about the support accommodations available.
