By Marybeth Smith
Until I had my son and went through all the obstacles we did trying to make sure he got the best education possible, I had no clue what accommodations can be made for someone with a mental illness and/or learning disabilities. I kept this in mind when, old lady that I am, I enrolled in college for the first time this summer. Sure, I probably don’t need a cool down room or scheduled snacks, but I knew there are certain accommodations I could benefit from. And the best part is, so can you!
Though my experience is strictly through Lansing Community College, I think it is a fair assumption that most colleges provide the same resources in some way, shape or form. The first thing I did after enrolling in my classes was search online for what the school had available to those with learning setbacks. On the college website I searched the word, ‘disabilities’, and found an entire department dedicated to those with special circumstances.
After reading closely what I needed to do in order to participate in the services, I gathered my information needed (such as diagnosis forms, etc.) and scheduled an appointment. I’m not going to lie and say I wasn’t nervous for said appointment. Speaking with anyone about a mental illness or learning disability can, and almost always is, difficult. Feelings of embarrassment, confusion, or fear of being judged are only a few of the things which hold backso many from getting the help and assistance they need. I set aside my feelings and went in with confidence and determination that I am going to get the best out of my education that I possibly can.
Due to my diagnoses of ADHD and Bipolar Disorder, I was given testing accommodations, such as a quiet room and extended testing times. These things might appear simple, but they seriously make all the difference in my test scoring. While in a room by myself, I am no longer distracted or feeling the need to finish before everyone else so it doesn’t appear like they are smarter. (Sounds ridiculous, I know, but my competitive nature can get the best of me at the worst times!) As a result, I’ve been able to achieve grades I can be proud of on my exams.
Testing accommodations are not the only forms of assistance. Depending on diagnosis, there is a wide variety of adaptations which can be made to assist each individual. LCC also has counselors on staff during business hours who can meet with individuals by appointment whenever they are feeling overwhelmed with school and/or life. And happily, all these services are free of charge.
If you are attending college this coming semester and have any type of mental or learning setbacks, please do not hesitate to contact your school’s Office of Disabilities. It is your right to get the best education you can get. Do not let anything hold you back from attaining your dreams and being the best person you can be. These resources are available for a reason; make sure you take advantage of each and every one you can.
Marybeth Smith is the author of the book, FALL GIRL. In 2010, she founded the website www.askabipolar.com, where she and a group of authors suffering from bipolar disorder answer reader’s questions about mental illnesses. In her spare time she writes, blogs and designs websites. She hopes that one day, through her novel and website; she will be able to help bring an end to the stigma surrounding mental illness.
To learn more about Marybeth visit www.marybethsmith.com or www.askabipolar.com. You can contact her via email at marybeth@askabipolar.com.
This was printed in the August 14, 2011 – August 27, 2011 Edition
