When you’re finally ready to go back to school, you can find a college that will work. However, finding an accessible college campus may take some searching. Many colleges and universities call themselves “accessible,” but their version of accessibility can be spotty. Many old college campuses simply cannot be made accessible without extensive investment.
But don’t let this sway your decision to go back to school. You can attend the college of your dreams, even Harvard. Brooke Ellison, a vent-dependent quadriplegic, attended this old campus, which added accessibility features throughout her college experience thanks to the ADA. The ADA requires that all public universities be made accessible.
Private colleges and universities, meanwhile, are not required to be accessible, but many still put accessibility measures in place. Most private colleges realize making their campus accessible is a wise decision for all.
When searching for an accessible college, you’ll want to visit in-person to make sure it meets your accessibility standards. Do a thorough overview of the campus before making your final decision. Ask for a tour and look at everything: building entrances, classrooms and desks, bathrooms, the sidewalks and curb-cuts on the campus, the accessibility of the sporting arenas, the cafeteria, the library—any place on-campus you plan on frequenting.
While you tour colleges, if you see anything that needs to be fixed accessibility-wise, don’t hesitate to let the school know. Most colleges respond positively to this feedback. They are always looking for outside perspectives, and they usually strive to be as accessible as possible.
If you’re looking for a list of the most accessible college campuses in the US, check out the link below. And remember, most public colleges across this country are more accessible than not. So, do your college search and know that, thanks to the ADA, finding a college that works for your new life is a realistic possibility.
Please watch the video below on accessible college campuses, and afterwards, please don’t forget to check out the Takeaway Points.
Video: “An Accessible WVU”
Takeaway Points
- Most public colleges in the US are accessible, thanks to the ADA
- Private colleges are not required to be accessible, but many still are
- Always take an extensive tour of the campus before choosing a school
Accessible College Resources
- 6 Wheelchair-Friendly College Campuses http://101mobility.com/blog/wheelchair-accessible-colleges/
- Accessibility at U.S. Colleges and Universities http://www.miusa.org/resource/tipsheet/collegeaccessibility
- College Resources for Students with Disabilities http://www.bestcolleges.com/resources/disabled-students/
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