Tips for Academic Success
If you have a psychological, attention deficit, or learning disability, consider some of the following steps (in addition to requesting reasonable accommodations) that may be helpful depending on the individual.
Become knowledgeable and comfortable describing your disability so you can advocate for yourself.
Try to set realistic goals and priorities for your coursework.
Keep a written calendar with all relevant dates, assignments, and appointments. Do not try to keep it all in your head. Taking advantage of computer calendars or hand-held organizers that can help you better track your commitments and can provide reminders and alarms.
In the classroom, consider the following:
-
Sit toward the front of the classroom to maximize your contact with the instructor and to minimize distraction.
-
Use a note-taker or tape recorder or laptop microphone in class. Listen to the tape or review your written notes immediately after class to refresh your memory and to fill in any gaps.
-
Make notes of any questions you might have so that you may ask them of the instructor before the next class or the next exam.
Estimate how long a given assignment will take. Observe how long it actually takes, so you can improve your planning. In general, plan at least two hours outside of class for every hour in class. Build in study breaks to avoid fatigue.
If you have trouble reading and do better with spoken language, contact Jason Bernard in the Goldfarb Library as soon as possible to inquire about books on tape or CD.
If adaptive technology, such as a scanner, voice recognition software or screen reader might help you, please contact Jason Bernard in the library.
If you begin to have trouble in your courses, or feel overwhelmed, talk with the instructor immediately. The sooner you seek help, the better. It is critical that you link up with campus resources before you fall behind in your work. Beth Rodgers-Kay, Director of Disabilities Services and Support, is always available to talk with you and to identify other helpful resources.