Helpful strategies for students with disabilities

The U's Twin Cities campus offers students incredible opportunities, as well as some significant challenges. Students who have thoughtfully prepared for life at the U are those most likely to succeed. Students with disabilities may benefit from additional planning.

If you are a student with a disability, consider using these strategies to help you reach your goals. For additional, disability-specific strategies, visit About Disabilities.

Prepare early for the start of or return to school.

Apply early for financial aid. Be sure you are not in default on any previous loans. Resolving funding questions such as these early in the process will help your return go smoothly.

Think about what academic barriers you encountered in previous school experiences. These may give you an idea of what kinds of academic accommodations you may need.

Build a support system.

Register with Disability Services. DS's role is to ensure equal access to University programs and services for all students with disabilities who are qualified to attend the University. Your Disability Specialist at DS can assist you in identifying and obtaining the accommodations to which you may be entitled. Your Specialist will provide you with information on policies and procedures that affect you and give you referrals to both on- and off-campus resources. Maintain communication with your Specialist so she or he can assist in arranging academic accommodations when needed.

Register with appropriate agencies and services that are relevant to your situation. For example, students who are blind may want to become members of Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB&D).

Learn who your key University contacts are. For example, where will you get academic or financial aid advising?

Consider getting involved in one of the many campus clubs and organizations, sports, and student union activities, including the Disabled Student Cultural Center (DSCC), 624-2602 (V/TTY). Good sources of information on activities are OneStop for Students, the Minnesota Daily, the Student Activities Office, 126 Coffman Union, 612-626-6919, Rec Sports for sports activities and programming information, and the Gopher Guide student planner, which contains a list of campus organizations.

Become familiar with the U campus and transportation options

Investigate and arrange for transportation to and from campus before the semester starts, as you are determining your class schedule. Plan realistically for the time it will take, and schedule your classes accordingly.

Map out the best route to your classes and do a trial run before the semester starts. Find accessible entrances and elevators, as needed. Remember to schedule enough time to travel from class to class, and keep in mind how winter and bad weather will impact your travel.

Travel light on campus. For example, repack your backpack or tote each day so you don't carry unnecessary items, such as books you won't use that day. Consider photocopying only pages you will need for each day.

Plan how you will disclose your disability.

Before the term begins, or early in the term, talk with your professors about the accommodations you will need, including how and where you will take exams. At that time, you should present a letter from your Disability Specialist that outlines your accommodations. Maintain communication with your Specialist so she or he can assist in arranging academic accommodations when needed.

If you have an "invisible" disability, your instructor will have no idea that adjustments or accommodations are needed unless you tell her or him. It is important that this discussion take place early in the semester. It is difficult to make any arrangements or adjustments after a deadline or exam date has passed. You may find the process of requesting accommodations stressful, but preparation helps. Contact your Disability Specialist for assistance, for practice with how and when to disclose, and for letters to instructors that provide information about your needed accommodations without sharing your diagnosis.

Enhance your repertoire for coping by developing life skills.

Keep your diet, exercise, and sleep patterns in balance. What is your stamina like? Do you have time allocated to get the rest you need? If you are taking medication, consider the possible side effects. What is the likelihood of needing to change medications during a semester?

Many college students are surprised by the demands on their time. To meet these demands, consider using these effective strategies for managing your time and coursework.

• Keep materials for each class organized and in one place.
• Keep one calendar of due dates and exams.
• Keep a consistent and realistic schedule.
• Keep a record of grades for all assignments, quizzes, and exams.
• Develop daily study routines.
• Prepare in advance for each class.
• Tape-record lectures so you can review the material later.
• Schedule periodic reviews to prepare for exams.
• Meet with professors, tutors, or others to discuss assignments, lectures, and exams.

Take advantage of the U's many resources for academic and career planning.

Ask your Disability Specialist for additional ideas and resources to help you in developing these life skills.