No Disability Too Small

Registering with the Disability Resources Office

So, whether you have a "small" disability, or a temporary one, the place to get assistance is the Disability Resources office.

Your campus might have a different name. It might be called Disability Services, Accessibility Services, or something similar. You can usually find your campus DR office by doing a search for "disability," "disabilities" or "accessibility."

DR will usually ask you to set up an appointment to meet with them and hear how your condition or disability impacts you in college. They'll often ask if you have a report or other documentation from your doctor.

From there, they'll work with you to see if there are any accommodations, services, or technology that can help you do your work in school. Usually, they draft a letter to your instructors explaining these accommodations and help your faculty if needed.

It's a good idea to check in with DR to let them know how the accommodations are working or to tell them about problems, or additional things you might need. Our links in the sidebar will give you more information about DR.

Most universities DO NOT provide personal assistance to students with temporary disabilities such as building-to-building transportation or the transport of books or other personal items. You should check that out at your campus, though, because each one is different.

If your school has a fixed-route shuttle or bus service, it is obligated to provide an alternative for students with disabilities. That's something to check out at the DR office.

Wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility devices are considered personal devices and are not usually guaranteed or provided for a long-term loan by Disability Resources offices.

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