Hi, my name is Cori Fischer and I am a senior in an accelerated Occupational therapy program. I go to school in Erie, Pennsylvania which is four hours away from my home in Ohio. I have Dystonia, which is a movement disorder that affects my legs and arms, making maneuvering college difficult at times. I wanted to share some tips that I have learned throughout the last three years.
Tip #1- Don’t let others’ stares stop you from chasing your dreams! One of the things I notice the most as I walk around campus is how many people stare. I wear a different AFO on each leg. I have learned that typically people aren’t staring because they think you are weird; they often stare because they are curious about your condition and want to know more. I can’t tell you how many people have stopped me and asked, “What is wrong?” or “Why do you wear those braces?” Even though this can be uncomfortable to talk about with strangers, they are not trying to be mean or rude, they just want to learn more. I think that it is important that we inform and educate others about our conditions. I’m not telling you that it’s a breeze walking around campus with two braces, but for me, they are definitely a necessity.
Tip #2- Don’t be afraid to ask for help! I can’t tell you how many friends have offered to help me in different ways on campus. I’m pretty stubborn and like to do tasks independently and without help, but sometimes you just have to ask. People may not know you need help until you tell them, and a lot of times, people are more than willing to help, you just have to have the courage to speak up!
Tip #3- Create a great support system- I have been really fortunate to have made some great friends in college. I have an amazing group of friends who are willing to help and accomodate my needs. I know first hand that it can be really hard when going to college, but I promise you, you will find your place; it just takes some time. For example, I didn’t become great friends with this group, who I would now call family, until the beginning of my sophomore year. These great friends of mine ride the elevators with me even though they may want to take the stairs. They slow down their pace when going to class, so that I can have conversations and keep up with them. They even carried me up four flights of stairs when the elevator was broken. In Erie PA, we get lots of snow and wind, and my friends hold on to me to make sure that I don’t fall during these weather conditions. Great friends make all the difference in the world when you are dealing with a disability. Just give it time; you will find your place, and when you do, get ready because these friends may just change your life!
Tip #4- Visit the disability office– I know sometimes it can be embarrassing to go to the Office of Disability, especially if you don’t want to use it. You may think you can do everything on your own and do not need them, but it is worth it to at least go and introduce yourself, so they know who you are. This office can offer some amazing accommodations to meet your needs. Even if you do not need them right now, you may in the future. I know that I was always nervous to go into this office, but once I found the courage to go in, they helped me with certain things that I hadn’t even thought about and offered great advice!
Tip #5- Always advocate for yourself– There have been instances where I needed some things that the school was not offering. You know what is right for you and what you need to help you succeed, so if you feel as if something is missing, do not be afraid to speak up. You may just help the next future college student with a disability.
So, to the Trend-Able Tribe, I hope these tips help you maneuver your college experience. Always remember, a disability should never stop you from chasing your dreams! You GOT THIS, and whatever you put your mind and heart to in life you will succeed(:
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