Individuals with Disabilities in Higher

EducationNavigating the way

Preparing for CollegeAs students with disabilities prepare to transition from high school to college they must consider many variables. For students with disabilities, preparing for college can be an intensive process.

Prepare EarlyA college should meet the minimum federal guidelines for accommodations, but students should also consider the social and emotional support systems of each institution. In addition, secondary schools have the obligation to provide college preparation courses to students in preparation for a successful transition

Planning AheadFor students with disabilities planning to attend college, it is important for the planning stage to begin early. Wilson found that students who planned their high school courses to include college preparatory studies performed significantly better in their college work (7).

IntegrationOnce students with disabilities enroll in college, those who become fully immersed in the college environment by incorporating mentorship, social activities, and residential life along with their academic courses, are more successful than students who are not completely integrated in the full college experience (Kleinert et al, 30, Ames et al 29).

Team ApproachGatlin and Wilson found that students involved in a team approach, including the student, parents, and college staff, at college were more likely to achieve academic success (138).

Focus on the PositiveA key factor in student success lies in realizing what students with disabilities can do well, rather than focusing on any limitations (Charania and Roth, 24).

ConclusionWith proper planning, an appropriate support system, and inclusive activities, students with disabilities can be successful in the higher education environment.

Works CitedAmes, Megan E., et al. “Overview and Evaluation of a Mentorship Program for University Students with ASD.” Focus on Autism and Other Developmental

Disabilities, vol. 31, no. 1, 2016, pp. 27-36. Academic OneFile.

Central European Univ International Day of People with Disability. CC License. Flickr.com

Charania, Sana, and Sarah Roth. "Journey to College a Parent's Perspective." Exceptional Parent vol. 46 no. 3, 2016, pp. 24-26. CINAHL Complete.

Erasmus Student Network. Markus Lutter. CC License. Flickr.jpg

Gatlin, Brandy T., et al. “Overcoming Obstacles: African American Students with Disabilities Achieving Academic Success.” The Journal of Negro Education, vol.

85, no. 2, 2016, pp. 129-142. JSTOR.

Fairfax County Students sitting at table for disability day. CC License. Flickr.com

Kleinert, Harold L., et al. "Students with Intellectual Disabilities Going to College? Absolutely!" Teaching Exceptional Children, vol. 44, no. 5, 2012, pp. 26-

35. Academic Search Premier.

Pasco County Schools. CC License. Flickr.com

Student Teams. CC License. Flickr.com

Ted Drake. Voiceover. CC License. Flickr.com

William Li. Notetaking. CC License. Flickr.com

Wilson, Michael G., et al. “Preparing Youth with Disabilities for College: How Research Can Inform Transition Policy.” Focus on Exceptional Children, vol. 4, 1 no. 7,

Mar. 2009, pp. 1-10. Educators Reference Complete.