FAQ
What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability that is neurological in origin. It can involve difficulties with accurately processing the sounds and structure of language, which can affect reading, decoding, spelling, and writing. Individuals with dyslexia often experience difficulty with phonological processing, including recognizing and manipulating the individual sounds within spoken words and connecting those sounds to letters and letter patterns. It is important to note that while dyslexia is a lifelong disability, individuals can thrive with the right intervention and support in daily life.
The resource, What is Dyslexia?, from Dyslexia Help at University of Michigan breaks down the components of dyslexia more.
What is dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is a math learning disability that is neurological in origin. It may affect an individual’s ability to accurately work with and understand numbers. Individuals with dyscalculia may find it challenging to do basic math facts, recognize patterns, understand time and money, and complete calculations correctly.
It is important to know that while this is a lifelong disability, people can thrive once they find the right strategies and support that work for them.
If you would like more information, look at Dyscalculia in Children and Adults: Symptoms, Tests, and Support Strategies from the LD Resource Foundation.
Are there a list of colleges that are more supportive for students who have a learning disability?
There are certain colleges that offer more tailored support for individuals with learning disabilities. This is an article by McMillan Education that may offer some guidance about this topic area: Colleges for Students With Learning Disabilities: Programs & Support
Alternatively, colleges and universities typically have a designated disability services office. This is how a student can get accommodations in order to access the regular curriculum, but with more support.
Were you able to meet and add accommodations or take them away while in college? I am always worried about my students have the right ones when they go
I initially had an intake appointment before I started my freshman year of college which is when I was assigned a case manager. At this appointment, I first had to show documentation of my learning disabilities by providing them a copy of my IEP. I was then told about accommodation options. I spoke about my specific desires for accommodations and implemented them. Every semester I must renew my accommodations. During this time, I can add, take away, or keep everything the same. However, students can always make extra appointments, if needed, with their case manager throughout a semester.
When you were looking at colleges, did you visit the student disability centers at each college?
For the most part, yes, I did. I chose to have a conversation with someone from disability services when I thought I could see myself attending the college. This is something I really recommend! It allows the parent/student to ask questions about the support offered at the institution. It can put into perspective if the student believes the school will offer adequate help or not. Personally, I decided against a school I thought I would attend solely because I disliked their disability service options.
How do you visit the student disability services centers?
You can start by emailing or calling to ask if they allow students to visit and ask questions to a staff member. If they say that they do not allow this, you can still show up and see in-person if they have someone available or not. My advice is you do not always have to take “no” as a firm answer. This is a big decision to make, so be a fierce advocate for yourself (or your student).
What is the one thing you want high schoolers to know when considering college?
You are allowed to change your mind. If you do not feel like a class, professor, major, or friendship are the right “fit” then you can find a different path instead. For example, this may look like dropping a class to switch to another one, changing a major, walking away from a friendship, etc. It matters to choose what works for you and not base decisions off of others. It may take time to feel comfortable and confident at college and that is okay!
How did you become such a great advocate for yourself?
I would say part of what makes me a great self-advocate is recognizing that each and every person has different strengths and challenges. I know that if something is difficult, there is always more than one way to accomplish it. It boils down to having a growth mindset and knowing that it is far more effective to communicate to others what works for my learning preferences and what doesn’t. It does take time and effort, but trying is an amazing first step!