Going to university is a big challenge for any new student. But when you add disability to the mix, things can get tricky quickly.
So what can you do to make things easier for yourself? Don’t worry! We’ve got three top tips that will help you get the most out of your time as a disabled collegiette.
1. You deserve the accommodations you get
Nobody wants to feel like somebody is giving them an unfair advantage. But when you’re disabled and getting accommodations, it can feel like getting the world handed to you on a plate. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a note taker, the opportunity to record your lectures or extra time on assignments. It still feels like you’re getting extra, doesn’t it?
Here’s the thing, though: you’re not.
Any adjustments you get for your disability are there to level the playing field. That’s all.
If you need them to achieve success, then you deserve them. It’s as simple as that.
2. You will feel overwhelmed sometimes and that’s normal.
Do you ever feel like you need to be a paragon of disability? As though if you aren’t smiling, brave and cheerful throughout, that you’re doing it wrong? Ever feel that you can’t let things get on top of you or you’re letting everybody down? Then here’s a secret for you: it’s fine to feel overwhelmed now and then.
Every university student feels the pressure when they’ve got a load of essays due or exams on the horizon. So why should it be any different for you? You don’t have to be strong all the time, and you don’t have to be an inspiration.
It’s fine to be you. And it’s fine to find things too much now and then. But if you’re feeling over-stressed all the time, check out the third and final tip below.
3. It’s okay to speak up if something isn’t right.
When something goes wrong, it can feel like the world is coming to an end. But at the same time, you don’t want to make a fuss about it, right? After all, you should be able to deal with it.
Except… you can’t. So what do you do? Speak up.
You can send an e-mail. You can make a phone call. You can ask to see your lecturer or somebody from Student Support in person.
But whatever the problem, it is always okay for you to say something about it. Your university’s main focus is making sure you get everything out of your university experience that you can. They want to help you get where you want to go. So if you’re having problems, let them know. And if they don’t help you, escalate it until you find somebody who will.
You’re just as worthy of having a good time at university as any non-disabled student. So don’t let anybody tell you otherwise.
Have you got any more advice for disabled collegiettes? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter (@HerCampusCCCU) or in the comments!