In my previous piece, I discussed the different types of transition and postgraduate programs for students with an NVLD and other disabilities. Now I will discuss the different college possibilities, as each college offers different levels of support and values inclusion differently. So hopefully the examples I share will help you understand the different options for students with an NVLD and other learning disabilities.
The first example is Thames Academy at Mitchell College, which is a pre-college transition program for students with learning disabilities or has faced a challenge not connected to a disability. The benefit of this program is that you take both credit and non-credit courses and have more individualized support with the professors, advisors,
The next option is to apply to colleges with comprehensive support such as Dean, Curry, Mitchell, and American International College for students with lower to average abilities and Syracuse and Clemson University for those with average to gifted abilities. Typically, you apply to both the college and its support program. If accepted into a program, you will receive similar support services to what you receive in high school while working towards earning your college degree. For example, you have an assigned learning disabilities CD specialist who typically will work with you 3-4 times a week. Like your Resource Room Teacher in high school, they will help you navigate your coursework and make sure you are receiving your accommodations. Also, they communicate regularly with your professors, which helps everyone to be on the same page. In addition, during your freshman year, programs such as coping with stress workshops are often scheduled throughout the year, organized by the program director. As a result, students who are in a comprehensive support program often experience greater successful outcomes both academically and socially.
Another option is to look at Landmark and Beacon College, which are colleges for Learning Disabled students that offer both associate and bachelor’s degrees. Both of those provide a traditional college curriculum with more personalized support, such as smaller classes and understanding that learning differently demands teaching differently. Speaking of traditional curriculum, they also have clubs and competitive sports just like typical colleges. So, in terms of college life, you will experience many of the same things. For some students, these schools would be a great fit, especially as a starting point by being an incredibly supportive environment.
The last example is to attend a local community college. The positives of this are that the classes are often small, so personal connections with your professor are made, tutors are offered for free, they tend to have an open admissions policy, and be cheaper. However, the downsides are that while they offer free tutoring services, it is often up to the student to sign up for them independently. You also don’t always work with the same tutor, and you likely won’t know the director of accommodative services as well through only meet them at the beginning of each semester to receive your accommodations. In addition, there are fewer opportunities for personal and social growth, as commuting is common. So, for students with moderate to severe academic deficits and added social communication deficits, realistically this option should be lower on your list, as the level of support you would need to reach your true potential unfortunately is rarely provided.
As you can see, there are a variety of different options available to you. Therefore, my advice is to start planning early, as it’s a long process, and if you are told your options would be fairly limited, share all the wonderful possibilities you have found in a respectful and professional way. You may think this would never happen, as part of the school counselor’s job is helping students develop appropriate post-secondary plans, yet some counselors aren’t well aware of the great possibilities for students with disabilities. I personally attended Dean College largely because my Dad was a school counselor who knew excellent options for all students. Therefore, it’s important to research the different possibilities and then pick a few open houses to attend that seem like the most appropriate fit for you. All of this will help you to be able to make the right decision for yourself.
Eileen
Eileen is a Project Social Ambassador and blogger for The NVLD Project. She loves helping others understand they can achieve their goals and dreams through hard work and dedication.
