November 21, 2009

Congratulations on your student’s acceptance to Auburn University. You can be proud of this wonderful accomplishment! We are aware that while this is a time of excitement and anticipation, it is also one of increased anxiety for parents as they begin the separation process from their college-bound students. We want to stress the value of a collaborative relationship between our office and you and your daughter/son.

We also feel it important to emphasize that postsecondary services are different from those provided secondary students. In this new setting, a student with a disability must initiate and participate in the process of applying for and receiving accommodations. You can be involved in this process by supporting your student in the initial application process and then allowing him or her to take on the main role in directing his/her academic future.

Your student will gain increasing responsibility in managing academics and other aspects of college life. The college environment is one in which the majority of people interacting with your student understand disability laws and accommodations and act accordingly. In this protective environment, your student can begin to strengthen self-advocacy skills and take responsibility in informing faculty and staff about individual needs and necessary accommodations. We are here to assist in these endeavors and look forward to working with your student over the course of her/his college career.