Crohn’s and College
When I was working in university disability support services, I supported with a number of students with Crohn’s and Colitis. Generally, there were a few things that students transitioning to college had not really thought about before entering college.
- Housing: Typically, on campus housing is determined early the summer. Most schools have a process for requesting housing accommodations based on a disability/health condition.
- Considerations: Do you need a room with a bathroom (many schools have shared bathroom facilities)? Do you need a private room? Ability to cook your own food?
- What to do: Contact the housing department and disability support services to see what the process is for requesting housing.
- Scheduling: At most schools, you work with your advisor to determine your schedule a few weeks before classes begin.
- Considerations: What time do you want your classes to begin? Will you need a more flexible schedule to allow for medical appointments?
- What to do: Discuss your needs with disability support services.
- Food: This is a big issue for students with Crohn’s. It’s important to think through your options before you are on campus
- Considerations: Are you planning to eat in the dining hall or make your own meals?
- What to do: Connect with dining services to see if there is a nutritionist in the dining hall, or someone you can speak to about the dining hall food options. If you want to make your own food, you will need to work with the Housing department to see what your access is to a kitchen in the residence hall.
- Academic Accommodations: There is a process in place at all schools for requesting academic accommodations.
- Considerations: Did you have an support in high school? Such as, breaks during class and exams? Extra time on tests? Ability to have food and drink in class?
- What to do: Before you start school, contact disability support services to find out what the process is for requesting accommodations. Discuss your requests with the counselor.
Accessible College provides services and support for students with health conditions who are considering college. Contact us for a FREE 30 minute consultation.
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