By Stephanie Wheeler
Making the decision on what college to attend can be very stressful. But, the first “move in” day can be even worse. It is important to remember that once you are accepted into a college and you receive information from Residence Life and Housing that you are only a name on a piece of paper to them. It is important to inform them of any special needs or requests that you may have.
The First Step
Once your deposit to attend the college or university of your choice is mailed in and received by the correct department it is important to realize that you are now a student of that school. You have the option to register, live on campus, and unfortunately you also have the opportunity to pay tuition.
Once you are a student you also have the opportunity to use any of their resources. An important resource of the university or college is the office of disability services. This office can assist in making sure that all of your academic needs and your social needs are met. Consider signing a waiver allowing them to talk to other college officials about your needs.
Living Accommodations
Living on campus could be very stressful. But, if you communicate with the Department of Residence Life and Housing they will be more than able to make your special accommodations. As long as you do it in advance that is.
Over the summer or once you have received information on housing you should personally make a connection with their office. Remember to let them know things along the lines of you need a room on the first floor or that is handicap accessible because you can not climb the stairs.
In case of an emergency are you going to be able to hear the fire alarm or will a strobe light need to be installed in your room?
It is also important to remember to tell them what type of bathroom facilities you will require in order to accommodate your special needs. If you feel comfortable it is important to let the Housing Office know exactly what your disability is in order for them to better accommodate you.
The Residential Life
Once you are placed in a hall it is important to remember that you are, once again, just a name on a piece of paper. Confidentiality agreements do not allow the department to speak to anyone concerning your disability until you have signed a waiver or given your consent. Before arriving on the first move in day it is important to attempt to make contact with the resident director. Let them know a little about yourself and your needs. Informing your resident director of any problem ahead of time will allow them to make ample accommodations for you.
Within the first week of your time at the college or university go and make personal contact with the director and the staff of the building. If you inform them of your needs such as an anxiety disorder, seizure disorder, etc., the staff will be able to accommodate you when it comes to floor meetings, building meetings, or general activities that occur within your building.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that it is important for students to realize that they are attending college to learn academically and socially. Without communication the residence hall cannot assist in that learning process. Communication is key to great success while living in the residence hall!