How to Survive College If You Have Learning Disabilities?

Learning disabilities are real, and if you are suffering from one, there is no need to be ashamed. Of course, we are not saying that your college life will be smooth sailing. Like others who are studying at the university, it can be a challenge. But for someone with a different way of learning things and concepts, how can you survive?   

In this post, we will share with you some of the advice from the professionals on how you can survive college even if you have a learning disability.   

Find Institutions Offering Support for Students with Learning Disabilities   

Even before you apply for a college or university, you need to do your research. Look for institutions that support students with learning disabilities. From here, you get to maximize your innate talents and develop new ones easily.   

Disclose Your Learning Disability with an Institution   

If you are not comfortable disclosing about your learning disability, that’s fine. However, most experts recommend that you document it properly. This allows you to have access to their special programs in case you decide to use it.   

Use Learning Tools   

If you must know, there are tools that you can maximize if you have a learning disability. Some of the students use tape recorders and even have their personal digital assistants. The tool depends on what type of disability you have, and what might work for others will not have the same effect on you.  

There are also apps especially made for people with learning disabilities. Try to see which ones will work best for you.    

Talk to Your Professors During Their Office Hours   

Your professors and instructors will share their office hours. If you are not familiar with this concept, it’s the time window where you can approach your professors and talk about lecture-related matters. Use the time to share your challenges. More often than not, they will provide you with additional materials so you can learn better. In addition, they could direct you to proper departments that can help you with your studies.  

Join Online Support Groups   

One of the best ways to deal with your learning disability is to constantly get support from people who know exactly how you feel. You can join several communities and feel free to ask questions on how they thrive in a specific situation.   

In case your school does not have a particular organization for people with learning disabilities, it’s not a bad idea to form one. You can leverage on that, meet new people, and practice many skills that you can use if you are about to work in a real-life setting.    

Build Your Self-Esteem and Self Confidence   

We understand that you will sometimes feel down, knowing that you have a hard time understanding a lesson. And yes, it can ultimately target your self-esteem and confidence. But instead of focusing on your challenges, always highlight your strengths. Perhaps you are good at music, or you excel in dancing.   

Experts suggest that you hone these as well and showcase it if possible. That can be a great form to boost your ego and can help you face the world with confidence. Remember that we all have our own strengths and weaknesses.    

Never Stop Learning New Things   

Even if you have a learning disability, this doesn’t mean you can’t learn. If you can, enrol in different classes, whether formal or informal ones. This should essentially help your brain function better, and sooner or later, you will see significant improvements.   

Seek Professional Help  

As always, it is best to get professional help. It’s one of the ways you can identify your core strengths and weakness. By then, you will know which programs will work best for you.  

Always keep in mind that a learning disability is not a blockage to be a successful person. With all the professional help, support group, and technology, we are all on a level playing field. Just know what techniques can help you, and you would be surprised how much things you can do despite the disability.  

You see, mindset plays a crucial role in terms of dealing with your learning disability. It is up to you if you want your future to be affected by it, either positively or negatively. But just so you know, many people and organizations are willing to support those who have learning disabilities. It is up to you if you want to thrive, or if you want your condition to stop you from maximizing your potential. At the end of the day, the choice is yours.