College Year One

First Year College Experience: Student with Disabilities Checklist

  • Attend orientation—even if offered multiple sessions, try to attend more than once to get comfortable.
  • Locate and register with Accessibility/Disability Services to begin receiving accommodations. Re-register each semester.
  • Identify the Student Success Center or Tutoring Center and explore available academic support options.
  • Connect with Academic Advising—understand course selection, degree planning, and program mapping.
  • Locate housing options, especially if accommodations are needed in a residential setting.
  • Learn about dining services—including meal plans, kitchen access, or dietary accommodations.
  • Set up your student communication tools (email/StarID) and check them regularly for critical messages.
  • Familiarize yourself with campus layout: library, disability office, advising, tutoring, health services.
  • Meet with disability staff and instructors early to establish accommodations for the semester.
  • Explore assistive technologies on campus and ensure they're set up (e.g. screen readers, note-taking aids).
  • Practice self-advocacy: communicate needs directly to instructors or staff.
  • Attend workshops or support groups (if offered) to connect with peers with disabilities.
Pro Tip: Use the college’s online student portal to find tutoring schedules, advisor contacts, and dining/housing portals. Contact your Accessibility Services early to submit documentation each semester.