How to Live on Campus With A Disability

Hello All,
Take it from someone who knows all too well, living on campus with a disability isn't always easy, but it is definitely worth it, if you can afford it, and can overcome some mobility issues

For this post, I would like to take blurbs and ideas from an article I wrote for a Magazine Writing class in February of 2008.

***The biggest challenge for any physically impaired college resident is recognizing his or her own abilities and disadvantages when navigating the campus. Whether your disability causes you to be in a wheelchair, on crutches, or lack balance, make sure there are no surprises on move-in day.

***Second, make your presence known. The two greatest rewards of living on campus with a disability are claiming independence and bringing a unique form of diversity to the community. On the first day of class after hitting the snooze button ten times and dragging yourself out of bed, visit the disability services office. Explain who you are and depending on your situations what accommodations you may need for your room or class. If you need a table to sit at instead of a desk or you need a chair in your shower...let them know... they are there to help you.

***Lastly know your social boundaries. There is no doubt that the college life is full of parties. Whether you are into partying or not, any social event can present challenges.

The following is a quote from Central student with Spina Bifida

"It's quite hard to go to house parties because you don't know if you will be able to get up and down the stairs or in and out of the bathroom unless you have been to the house before. It doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't go, it just means its better to know the house layout and the person that owns it” --Danny Friar, 20

Also, I am no way promoting underage drinking, but if you are going to drink, know how it affects your disability and the human body.

Overall, your "living on campus checklist" may be different than the average persons', but the key to living on campus and claiming independence is simply to plan ahead!