Make sure disability documentation is up to date; that it addresses the accommodations
you will need, and then submit it to the college disability office prior to start
of first term.
Understand and be able to articulate what your disability is and how it affects your
learning.
Learn how to responsibly balance your time between study, work, and relaxation.
Learn to advocate for yourself while in high school.
Practice effective learning strategies: e.g. keep up with reading assignments, take
understandable lecture notes for later use, review course materials regularly (not
just before tests).
Get organized and start using a calendar/planner to manage time and assignments.
Find out what accommodations are available in college and start using them now.
Discuss with your high school or Dept. of Rehabilitation counselor all educational/career
options.
Self-Advocacy Skills
Understand my disability and learn ways to compensate
Learn how to explain my disability and needs to others
Learn how to ask for appropriate accommodations
Learn that it is OK to use appropriate accommodations
Identify my strengths and weaknesses
Learn that it is OK to ask for help
Express my needs clearly to all college employees, especially the
ACCESS staff and my instructors, early in the term
Take responsibility and develop independence in coordinating your services
Meet with instructors when needed
College Survival Skills
Keep a calendar of all exam/assignment due dates and appointments
Plan on spending two to three hours of studying for every hour of class
Be on time to class, ask questions when needed, and participate!
Take notes in class and review them – often!
Complete all assignments on time – plan ahead!
Take advantage of services on campus to help you succeed such as tutoring or special
classes
Arrange for needed accommodations early in the term
Visit the ACCESS office for assistance, questions, counseling, and class selection
– we are here to help!
Plan time to eat, sleep and have some fun!
If trouble arises, seek assistance as soon as possible.
