Physical Disabilities

When you’re looking at colleges or workplaces, check out the buildings (either in person, or virtually, if it’s not practical to travel there). Can you get around easily? (Consider distance, terrain, and weather conditions.) If you’re thinking of living there, will the living places work for you?

Talk to the people at the school or job about any accommodations you might need. This might be special transport, technology to make things easier, remote learning or work arrangements or someone to take notes for you in class.

When you pick your classes or work schedules, think about how you’ll get from one place to another. Are the rooms close? Is there an elevator? Make sure you have enough time to move around. Think also about your energy level throughout the day, if you deal with fatigue. Will moving from one place to another or having several classes in a day tire you and limit your productivity? These are all factors to consider when planning for success in your postsecondary education and work.

Find out if the schools or workplaces you are considering have health services that can help you if you need it. Make sure they know about your needs and can help in the right way.

If you are interested in being involved in advocacy on a college campus, look for groups or clubs that focus on helping students with disabilities. These organizations can be a great way to find friends, get support and learn to be an effective advocate for yourself and others with disabilities.