Physical Disabilities

Physical disabilities affect mobility, motor function and physical stamina in a wide range of ways. Students may use mobility aids like wheelchairs, crutches or canes, or may have disabilities that are not immediately visible. Many students with physical disabilities are highly independent and self-directed, with strong self-knowledge about what they need to participate fully in academic life. Physical disabilities can be stable or fluctuating, and no two students will have the same experience.

Barriers to Access

In a college environment, you might find some of these things more challenging:

• Navigating campus buildings and spaces with limited physical accessibility
• Accessing classrooms or facilities in a timely way between classes
• Fatigue from managing physical demands alongside academic responsibilities
• Sitting or remaining in one position for extended periods
• Completing physical tasks like writing or typing during a flare