Maintained by drc@ucsc.edu

Things to Know About Transitioning to College

Going to college is an exciting new adventure! Yet, with that excitement, it is not uncommon for new students to be nervous about the move away from home or what to expect with college level academics. If you are a student with a disability, you may have questions about what college life is like with a disability. Below are some tips to help you make a smooth transition to college.

Know the Difference between High School and College

High School	vs.	College
IDEA (focus is on academic success)		ADA (focus is on equal access)
504 Plans		Specific medical documentation requirements
Parent is student advocate		Student is self-advocate
School initiates services		Student initiates services

Self-Advocacy

One of the best ways to help yourself transition into college is to develop self-advocacy skills. In elementary school and high school, staff typically identify which students need help and activate needed services. At the college level it is your responsibility to identify yourself as a student with a disability and initiate support services by contacting the Disability Resource Center.

Self-advocacy means expressing your needs, asking for help, and engaging in personal decision-making. For an example, instead of asking your mom or dad to make phone calls for you, take ownership of your life by making these calls yourself.

For many students, it is a new and challenging experience to talk about disability symptoms, express one’s needs, and ask for help. However, college is a great place to practice these skills. Self-advocacy will benefit you now at UCSC, and in your future graduate school or employment endeavors.

Asking for disability accommodations does not provide an unfair advantage, it merely levels the “playing field” so all can have equal access to their education. Do you feel reluctant to contact the DRC and use our services? Are you uncertain how to talk to your professors about your needs? Worried about stigmas? You are not alone in your concerns. However, many UCSC students took the chance of asking for help and were glad they did:

• “Everything is working out great! The DRC has been so helpful and I am having a wonderful college experience, thanks in large part to you.” –Freshman
• “Thanks so much for all of your help and support over the years. I had never been tested for my learning disability until you recommended it my first year at UCSC. With the support of you and your office, I have completed my BA!” –Graduate in Psychology
• “Excellent staff! They are always helpful and able to work with my needs as an individual. I am impressed with how the receptionist is able to remember everyone on a first-name basis.” –Junior, Latin American Studies
• “It truly makes a difference to have a support system like the DRC.” –Senior, Computer Science

Confidentiality Laws

A key transition occurs when you turn 18; federal privacy laws become applicable, protecting your confidentiality. Specifically, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prohibits the Disability Resource Center from disclosing information about you to your parents.

Without written consent, we cannot inform your parents what accommodations you are receiving or even whether you are requesting services from the DRC. Likewise, parent involvement in any DRC meetings, must be at your invitation. You are encouraged to maintain good communication with your parents regarding your well-being at college.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Did you know as a student with a disability you have certain legal rights? Are you aware of what your responsibilities are in regards to these rights? Be sure to review the Office of Civil Right’s Students with Disabilities Preparing for Post-Secondary Education: Rights and Responsibilities.

Managing Your Time Effectively