Welcome back to the Cram Crew blog! This October, we’re recognizing National Dyslexia and ADHD Awareness Month with a post on navigating the transition from high school to college with a learning disability. Hear from Caroline Green, our newest team member, as she shares her personal journey and tips for success.
When preparing for college, students are often swept up in a whirlwind of exciting, sometimes stressful, thoughts. What organizations will I join? How will I decorate my dorm? Which classes should I take? In the midst of choosing bedding sets and reading the course selection catalog, it’s easy to overlook one very important piece of the puzzle: how will my support systems carry over from high school to college?
For students with learning disabilities, this question is even more pivotal. While occupied with more enticing or fun questions, it’s easy for students with learning disabilities to forget to explore how their chosen college will help accommodate their academic needs.
I know this from personal experience because I overlooked it myself.
1 in 5 individuals in the United States navigate school with a learning disability. I was diagnosed with ADHD, a processing disorder, and dyslexia. Like many others, these diagnoses made it challenging to complete my assignments on time, stay focused in class, and succeed academically, even when I was trying my hardest.
Major transitions are tough for anyone, but for students facing challenges like these, they can be especially daunting. The jump from the structured support of high school to the independent environment of college can feel jarring when you’re not fully prepared.
Having experienced what it’s like to be unprepared for the transition into higher education with a learning disability, I have prepared a list of six things I wish I had done before entering my first semester of college at Texas A&M University (TAMU).
Most colleges and universities have dedicated disability service offices, such as the Texas A&M University's Department of Disability Resources and the University of Texas' Disability and Access. These resources vary widely in structure and support, so it’s important to explore what each one offers before committing to a school. If you’re still applying, or preparing to apply soon, take the time to research how each program supports students with learning disabilities. If you’re already set on a particular school, try to connect with the disability service office before your first semester begins. Schedule a tour, attend an information session, or simply call to learn more about your school’s resources and how to access them.
While at TAMU, I was provided with accommodations that met my academic needs. Although I had a late start, I received extra time, a separate exam room, and lecture notes after a quick meeting with the TAMU Department of Disability Resources to review my learning differences and diagnoses. There are many types of accommodations, so it’s definitely worthwhile to research and inquire about the options available at your school to help you navigate your learning disability with ease.
Typically, incoming college freshmen register for classes over the summer, which gives you ample time to plan a schedule that works with–not against–your learning style.
Think about when you’re most productive and focused during the day. For example, I knew my ADHD medication would wear off by late afternoon, so I opted for morning and early afternoon classes. This left me the time and mental energy to tackle assignments before my focus began to fade. Whether you’re a morning person or someone who thrives later in the day, being mindful of your energy levels can help you create a class schedule that sets you up for success.
Once your classes and activities are confirmed, the next step is to develop an efficient way to manage your time and responsibilities. An agenda is a useful tool for everyone. However, time management can be especially tricky for students with learning disabilities, so finding a method that works for you is key.
I used a checklist I created on Google Docs as my daily agenda. I could type out tasks, check them off throughout the day, and edit them as needed. It helped me stay organized without feeling overwhelmed. Other great agenda options include using a physical planner, hanging a wall calendar in your room, or setting reminders and events through Google Calendar or your phone. Try a few methods until you find one that helps your day run smoothly!
As classes ramp up, so does the studying and homework. If you’re living in a dorm, finding a quiet place to study can be tricky. Unfortunately, mom isn’t around to hush noisy roommates (like she did previously with siblings), and it’s likely that not everyone you live with will have the same study habits.
For students with learning disabilities, distractions make it even more difficult to concentrate. That’s why finding a consistent, focused study spot is a game-changer. Some students thrive in a library setting, while others, like me, find public spaces distracting. I quickly learned I needed a quiet space away from others to get my work done. If your dorm or campus library offers private study rooms, take advantage of them!
Picture your average college dorm. What do you see? Are there clothes scattered everywhere? Dishes piled up? Sheets that haven’t been washed in ages? For the most part, this is the reality of college life.
My bedroom during my first semester of college was horrendous. I had absolutely no system of organization. Unsurprisingly, my brain felt just as cluttered as my space. This disorganization also reflected poorly in my grades. Once I cleaned my room, my grades naturally improved. A clean and organized environment might not sound like a big deal, but it can have a huge impact on your ability to focus. A clean space reduces distractions, promotes calmness, and decreases stress. When you move in, keep your setup simple and easy to maintain. A clean space can make all the difference in your overall well-being.
College brings a lot of freedom, but also a new level of responsibility–especially when it comes to managing your learning needs. That’s where self-advocacy comes in.
Having a learning disability means your brain works differently, and that’s OK! What’s not OK is staying silent when you need support. There are resources specifically designed to enhance the college experience for students with learning disabilities.
Self-advocacy means understanding your own learning style, recognizing your needs, and confidently taking the initiative to secure the resources necessary for your academic success.
Now, as a proud Texas A&M graduate, I can confidently say that my learning disabilities did not prevent me from thriving in college. By connecting with resources, building routines, and learning how to advocate for myself, I was able to create an environment where I could succeed. Don’t wait! Take action early and set yourself up for the fulfilling college experience you deserve.
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