Published on 12, July, 2020
Hello!
Realising I’m struggling a lot more than my peers with my university course- I managed to get as far as arranging a meeting with the disability advisors, but I’m worried that because I didn’t need support in my first two years it’s going to be harder to access support now.
My other issue is that I have absolutely no idea what to ask for (accommodations-wise)! I’ve had access to extra time, but never really thought there were other options out there. This year my exams are in person (and handwritten) for the first time in 6 years. I’ve also noticed I really struggle with deadlines especially when there are multiple coming up (I think because of difficulty switching focus/changing activity) and staying on topic. Has anyone ever had assessments done as a sort of ‘test of understanding’ interview instead of a written examination? Or could you offer suggestions for accommodations I could ask for? Thank you!
Give me a mo, just pulling up my student support document
First thing is DSA
DSA for me provided recording software and hardware for lectures, including some transcription software (my audio prosessing is rubbish)
An app called brain in hand that has been very helpful with organisation and unexpected change (I have a post somewhere on this forum giving a more detailed review)
Active noise cancelling headphones (godsent)
And while my university provided this, if your uni doesn't provide it DSA can also give you an autism specialist mentor, and a study skills advisor. Both of these I found extremely helpful in the managing deadlines, admin, and working out what the question wants side of uni.
Uni also provides a bunch of accommodations
Extended deadlines where feasible
Regular scheduling
breaks in practicals if needed (I have to choose an appropriate time, I can't leave if things are reacting and exploding everywhere)
Single room for field trips (also very useful)
More forward information
More information provided in writing
For exams: Extra time, separate room - low density venue (fewer than 10 people), some people can also get single person rooms, rest breaks - up to 10mins per hour, non bluetooth earplugs to avoid distractions, pre approved fidget items, a quiet snack.
I'm at cambridge that provides housing for all three years, so I also have adjustments based on that, so en-suite, cooking facilities, and in a quiet area of college.
I also have more meetings than other people with my tutor and college nurse.
There are many other things out there that are helpful, I found my disability advisor incredibly helpful in suggesting loads of stuff.
Hope this gives you some ideas though