How is High School Different from College?

In College, there is no Special Education. There are NO ARDs, IEPs, or other people who will make decisions for you. YOU are responsible for making all disclosures and decisions about your program–not your parents or guardians. You’ll need to be qualified to study what you choose as your major program and you’ll be expected to meet academic & technical standards for your choices. Like all students you’ll follow classroom rules and procedures, and the Codes of Conduct for the school.

Likewise, ONLY YOU can disclose that you have a disability (ADA, 1990). It’s a very personal decision. Even if you have a disability you may want to try things first in the usual way to see what works for you. Many students with disabilities find that when they choose programs that suit their talents, they are working with their strengths and can proceed without additional support. It is also important to take care of yourself, and to follow any recommended health and medical regimes. If you choose not to speak about your disability, NOBODY will ask and NOBODY can allow accommodations.

The course work and requirements for a class are determined by the college and faculty. The essential requirements cannot be changed by anyone but the instructor. Accommodations for students with disabilities are designed to “level the learning field” not to change the content of what is learned. If you decide you do want additional support YOU must request it. You will need to follow the school’s procedures and policies to secure accommodations. If you choose to speak about your disability, you need to be prepared to describe it, to tell how it effects your day-to-day functioning, and to tell what you need to do to accomplish the job or classwork.

page last updated 12/3/07