What to look for when choosing a university if you’re disabled

Having a goal, thinking about your career path, and picking your course sound like such good things to think about when you are about to choose your university. Colleges are usually the start of a new chapter in your life. Thus, we always want to make sure that the place we are choosing is the best for us.

When we keep our best interests in mind, we know that we are more likely inclined to make the best decision on where to go. Whether it is to look for the course that we want, observe the school environment, or get feedback from past people who have studied there, we know that each of these factors is very important in your decision-making.

With that said, if you have no idea what you should look for in a university if you are disabled, then you are in luck. This article will help you find the best university for you by telling you what you should look out for, things you have to consider, living conditions, and the like.

#1 Check out their campus

A college’s campus can tell a lot about its environment. Is it disabled-friendly? Getting a feel of the campus is always better than viewing pictures online. You will meet a bigger range of people and better understand the campus and your prospective future home.

There are higher chances that you get all of your questions regarding campus culture, student services, learning centers, tuition, and the registration and acceptance process addressed. Moreover, you will also benefit from your peers’ further inquiries.

#2 Ask about their housing

It is crucial always to be one step ahead, including housing. You have to be aware of their rules, benefits, and the like so you can make a more well-informed decision as to whether their housing can answer your concerns.

Ask questions about dorm choices, is it recommended for the disabled to live here? What is the scene like for those who are in dorms? Is it easy for disabled people to stay here every day? Is this safe for those with a lightweight wheelchair? Questions like these can sometimes make or break your decision when choosing a university, so it is important that you know everything you can about it.

#3 Check for support groups for the disabled

Living with a disability is pretty tricky, so it is important to check the university you want for support groups that could help you. Since college would be a new setup for you, it is clear that no one would be familiar with your situation. Unlike say your old school, they might know what exactly it is you need. But being in a new environment, it is doubtful they are aware.

This is where support groups would come in handy. With their help, you can adjust so much easier than if they were not there. Furthermore, having a group with similar difficulties would be easier to fit in as you have some people to whom you could relate.

#4 Observe their resources

Another thing that goes along the route of housing would be their resources. Take a look around the campus and observe the things that they have. It could be simple things such as bathrooms. Do they have toilets for the disabled? Are the buildings safe? Is there an available elevator for those who cannot walk?

Make sure that these things and specific things you are looking for are available, and if they are not, you should start thinking if this is something that you could live with every day. If you do not believe it is, it is probably not wise to choose that university.

Summary

We know that choosing a college can be difficult. Even harder when you are disabled, but know that one of the crucial things to consider would be your happiness. Before choosing a college, make sure that you believe you would really enjoy your time there.

College is one of the biggest experiences that one can have. It can truly make a mark on your life and give you memorable moments. This is why it is very much essential to do further research on that specific place before applying. Be sure that it is the best place for you.

It can be daunting but just know that there will always be people around who could help you if you are worried about starting this new adventure of your life. Do not worry, for it would no doubt give you memories that you would never forget and always cherish. With that said, we hope you have found this article to be helpful in deciding on the best college for you.