One Student to Another
In celebration of Disability Awareness Month, I would like to share some resources that are available through the Service for Students with Disabilities (SSD) Center. Those of us with disabilities often require accommodations in order for our college education to be accessible. This accessibility allows individuals to fully participate and feel included. Having a disability does not define college students as a burden, despite making life situations difficult to navigate sometimes. University of the Pacific acknowledges these needs and works together with students to find and put in place accommodations.
The SSD office sits in the McCaffrey center. Their office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The types of students the SSD works with include individuals that have learning disabilities, ADHD, chronic health conditions, traumatic brain injuries, hearing impairments, physical disabilities, psychological disorders, visual and other health impairments. The SSD seeks to provide accommodations for students with temporary or permanent disabilities to access their coursework. Through these efforts, the SSD ensures equitable access for all learners.
For example, some students may need additional time to work on a test in an environment where they can focus. The SSD offers learners to take tests at the center, in a private room that is relatively quiet and decreases the possibilities of distractions. If needed, the student will also have a longer amount of time to finish the test. Also, a recall sheet may be available, upon instructor approval. Such accommodations make testing a fair and comfortable experience…