Assessment of and knowledge about learning disabilities and ADHD has come a long way over the years. Many adults returning to school now did not have the benefit of evaluation and assessment when they were in school before. Therefore many adults today learn that they have a disability and finally can begin to understand they are not “stupid” or “lazy” or any of a number of other things they may believe about themselves as a result of growing up with an undiagnosed learning disability.
They can reframe their sense of self with a diagnosis, get the academic support they need, and successfully earn the degree they desire. I have witnessed many, many stories of educational struggle and success working with adult students with disabilities in every field imaginable.
Last piece of advice?
Ask for help, ask for help, and ask for help!
Educators understand that adult learners have needs and abilities that are totally different from those of traditional-age college learners: you work at a different pace; you are juggling different demands; and you have experiential bodies of knowledge that are vast compared to younger learners. As a result, programs geared toward the adult learner are structured to support these differences, and they employ professionals specifically to help adults be successful.
You can talk to career counselors, faculty, or an academic coach to help you make decisions or work with instructors who understand the demands of juggling career, family, and school. In addition, adult students can access academic support from the learning support office that most colleges have, or again from a tutor or academic coach.
An adult student doesn’t need to struggle alone. Be sure to ask for help. You’ll get it.
Article comments
1 - goingback2school
Thanks..........you have no idea how I needed to hear this.....thanks so much again :)