Still worried about going abroad? Check out this article by Lisa Saltagi.
Accommodations
You've always wanted to study in England, but you need a service animal. Is it realistic to think you will be able to travel there by yourself, or with your service animal, and keep up the coursework?
You struggle with bipolar disorder, experiencing mood swings and marked changes in energy and behavior. Can you handle these challenges while taking classes in Buenos Aires, Argentina?
You're excited about studying in Dublin, but you use a wheelchair, and there are many narrow, crowded cobblestone streets. Is your dream realistic?
Yes, yes, and yes.
Students with disabilities are an essential part of any program! Your options for studying abroad may be shaped, but never limited, by your disability. With proper planning, a person with a disability can do well, no matter what kind of program and goals they pursue. The program that is "right for you" will depend more on your interests and qualifications, and less on your disability. The UK Education Abroad office is here to help you find the perfect experience for you. Follow these steps to get started:
1. Let's meet!
There are several opportunities to meet with us! You can attend a First Steps session, join us for a Fair, or schedule an advising appointment. Though Bradley Hall is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchairs, we are definitely willing to come to you! Give us a time and place (within reason) and we'll meet you where you are.
2. Let us know your goals, interests, and worries.
The most important thing for you when it comes to education abroad is doing exactly what you want to do. Let us know what you want to study and where, and we can help from there. In many cases, our office and our partners overseas can make accommodations for your disability-- be it physical or otherwise. For us to make this as amazing of an experience as possible, all you need to do is let us know how we can help!
3. Meet with your campus partners.
Key offices on campus, such as the DRC or Counseling Center, may be able to talk you through some of the things you should take into consideration regarding your specific disability. Everyone is different, even if you have the same disability as someone else, so definitely go check in with on-campus partners. If you need digital textbooks, a note-taker, extended deadlines, wheelchair accessible accommodations, or anything else, they will need to let us know in an official letter. (Don't worry, they know what that is!) When the DRC tells us what you need, then we can let your program know and they can help from there.
4. Search for a program!
Now we know your goals, aspirations, and worries. Come talk to us again, and let's find you the perfect program abroad. Flexibility is key! The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) doesn't apply outside of the United States and while many countries are becoming more accessible, it varies from place to place. Countries and cultures address and accept disabilities in different ways, some being more open and helpful, and others not so much. This shouldn't stand in the way of your goals! When you talk to our office about your needs, we'll make our best effort to find the perfect program that fits you!