Next Step: College

During the first semester, seniors begin applying to college and making decisions regarding where they will continue their education. Each student makes a list of possible colleges and tries to find that school that is the "perfect fit." Once all of the applications are submitted, students begin the wait for acceptances to arrive.

Now is the time when students must transition from dreaming about their college experience to actually planning for success. The change can be frightening. Students with ADD/HD or a learning disability face questions and challenges of their own. Many students that have received support from the Teaching and Learning Center must decide the level of support they will need in college. While the Americans with Disabilities Act prevents discrimination based on learning disabilities, each college provides support in different ways. Some colleges provide services on an as-needed basis, while others have a very structured program.

While colleges cannot discriminate against student with ADDHD or learning differences, they do not have to alter their admissions requirements in order to accommodate a student with a learning difference. If the student will require significant support, then that student should disclose everything in the application process and choose a college based on the level of support that can provided. If a student is receiving minimal support currently, then disclosure may not be necessary.

Students who need academic support should make an appointment with the Academic Support Center as soon as possible in order to develop a transition plan. Many colleges have transition programs for freshman during the summer. By planning early, the probability of student success will improve significantly.

During this process, students and their parents should consider many questions when making the final college selection. Most experts suggest the following questions:

What type of support is available for students with learning disabilities?
Is the program monitored by a full-time professional staff?
Has the program been evaluated, and if so, by whom?
Who counsels students with learning disabilities during registration, orientation, and course selection?
Which courses provide tutoring?
What kind of tutoring is available, and who does it? Peers or staff?
Is tutoring automatic, or must the student request assistance?
How well do faculty members accept students with learning disabilities?
May students with learning disabilities take a lighter load?
Are courses in study skills or writing skills offered?
Have counselors who work with students with learning disabilities received special training?
How do students on campus spend their free time?
May students with learning disabilities take more time to graduate?
Whom can parents contact if they have concerns during the academic year?

Darlington's Teaching and Learning Center provides assistance to students in the transition process. We work with students to identify the colleges that provide the most appropriate support for each student’s individual strengths and weaknesses. Jean Bonnyman, one of our Upper School learning specialists, spends countless hours working with students to identify colleges that are a "good fit" and assisting them during each phase of the transition.

The Teaching and Learning Center also has many resources available to assist students and often provides support after graduation. We can counsel with students on the level of support that they might need and can provide all necessary documentation to the school. By aligning our accommodations and services with those afforded by most colleges and universities, we can provide a smooth transition.