Preparing for College this Summer

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The summer before college is a pivotal transition. While your teen still lives at home, you can lay the groundwork for a smooth move to campus. Early planning ensures the services and supports they need are in place from day one. 

Getting a Head Start 

• Contact the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities to learn about early registration, dorm check-in, test accommodations, and accessible course materials. 

• Request campus tours and orientation sessions before moving day. 

• Ask about peer-mentor programs that pair incoming students with experienced upper-level students who are blind or low vision. 

Before Arriving on Campus 

• Arrange Orientation & Mobility (O&M) instruction through your state’s commission for the blind or vocational rehab. Plan sessions for both the pre-move and post-move schedules. 

• Secure essential AT (braille displays, screen readers, adaptive keyboards) and explore loaner programs or financial aid for AT devices. 

• Connect on social media: Join college disability services groups, dorm forums, and interest clubs online to start building friendships early. 

• Determine which new doctors are available in the area and schedule appointments around breaks and when your child is home.  

Arrival and Move-In 

• Plan to arrive early and use the extra days to unpack, set up your dorm, and test any assistive technology. 

• Meet with your Disability Services counselor immediately to review accommodations and get your student ID/access cards. 

• Introduce your teen to their Orientation and Mobility (O&M) instructor on campus and obtain an accessible campus map (in braille, large print, or tactile format) for practice. 

• Ensure your child has a plan for emergencies within their dorm.  

Campus Orientation 

• Schedule multiple O&M sessions to master navigation to key buildings: cafeteria, library, registrar, labs, student center, and emergency exits. 

• Practice routes to local businesses and shopping, such as pharmacies, grocery stores, and transit stops. This will support your child’s ability to be more independent and confident in their new community. 

Learning the Ropes 

Encourage your teen to: 

• Get involved in clubs, sports, or arts groups. This accelerates social integration. 

• Advocate for themselves by introducing their accommodations to professors and staff. 

• Use a digital planner or task-management app to track assignments, appointments, and campus events. 

With these steps, your teen will step onto campus ready, supported, and confident! 

Frequently Asked Questions