Finding the right college for your special needs child is quite a challenge. Many things must be considered and choosing the right college that fits your child’s needs and interests is quite an undertaking.
1. Visit several colleges while it is in session. Check out the classrooms, dorms, library, etc. Parents should talk about their experiences in college as well.
2. Make an appointment with the Disability Support Services (DSS) and discuss with them the services they provide, how to apply for services, what documentation is needed, days and hours they are open, support groups or social opportunities specifically available for students with this disability, counseling or tutors that are available, do they advocate for students, etc.
3. After visiting the colleges talk about the positives and the negatives of each one. Have your child write a list of the pros and cons (fold a sheet of paper in half and list the pros in one column and cons in the other). Having a written list enables them to visually see the differences and helps ASD individuals learn a strategy for making decisions which is something they need to do independently throughout their lives.
4. Decide where to apply to college. Consider the curriculum offered at the college, the size and location, what is required for admissions, and the supports (family, friends, tutoring, counseling, Disability Support Services, etc.) that are available there.
5. Consider the cost of tuition and expenses for the college. Consider financial aid, loans, scholarships (some are based on a disability), etc. and apply for them if needed.
6. Apply to the universities that you like after considering all the above.
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2 comments:
I agree with all of the above, especially the one about making a list of pros and cons. And the sooner you make one after the visit, the better; I'd usually write mine on the car trip home. Also helpful is going back a few days later and adding to it. More than once I fell in love with the college while there, and it was only after leaving it and actually considering the pragmatic aspects (would it get me a job? Is the strength of the degree worth the price? Would I fit in there?) that I realized it was not a good fit at all. The lists really help in that respect.
frogger-
It sure is a lot of homework. So much to consider!
When I went to college since my major was limited to only a handful of colleges it was a no brainer. LOL!
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