Very often, high school students with learning differences come to rely on parents and teachers to meet their academic needs. Parents are usually responsible for advocating, making sure the IEP accurately reflect their student's needs and that its directives are implemented. Teachers usually take responsibility for telling students when they need extra help or if their grades are dropping.
Students who have come to depend on parents and teachers, for either academic or emotional support, may sorely miss this network should they choose a residential college.
How can a student with a learning difference determine whether he/she is independent enough to leave home and function successfully at an away-school? This decision inventory can shed light on whether you are ready to leave the security of your familiar environs and venture off to college on your own.
DIRECTIONS: Answer the questions below with your first reactions.
T or F I have the self-discipline to say "no" when asked to go to a party on a school night.
T or F I have enough self-control to leave the dorm and find a quiet area of the library to study.
T or F I have lived away from home before, even if it was just for a summer.
T or F I know how to do my own laundry.
T or F I am a careful spender and avoid impulsive spending.
T or F I know how to handle my banking and keep a checking account.
T or F I hardly ever get homesick.
T or F I don't need anyone to prompt me to do homework and study.
T or F I tend not to depend on my family for emotional comfort.
T or F I adapt well to new situations.
T or F I have been told I have good social skills.
T or F I prefer being around a lot of people to being alone.
T or F I don't need prompting from my parents regarding hygiene habits (i.e. showering, shaving, wearing clean clothes, etc).
T or F When left on my own, I usually make decisions that are in my best interest.
T or F I hardly ever depend on my parents' advice regarding school issues.
If you have 5 or more "False" answers, you may want to consider commuting to college for at least the first year. Use this time to shore up your weaknesses until you have the skills and self-discipline required to succeed at a residential college.
©2007 Joan Azarva
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