Navigating College with Disabilities with Professor Jenna Gonzalez
After a catastrophic injury, many young people and their families assume the traditional college experience is out of reach. In this episode of Unthinkable, Kyle Bachus talks with Professor Jenna Gonzalez, director of the Disability Resource Center at the University of Florida and an adjunct professor who teaches courses on disability, about what’s possible.
Support From Admission to Graduation
More than 8,000 University of Florida students are registered with the Disability Resource Center, which supports them through graduation and beyond. Accommodations go well past testing. They include housing, help with faculty, and reduced course loads that still count as full-time, which can be especially helpful for a student returning to school after a traumatic event.
A Residence Hall Built for Everyone
UF’s Cypress Hall is one of only two universally designed residence halls in the nation. Its features include accessible door controls, rooms with ceiling lift systems, zero-entry showers, adjustable sinks, smart controls so students can answer and unlock their door from bed, and dedicated space for personal care attendants. The university’s furniture shop even customizes each student’s bed and desk. Gonzalez says Cypress Hall is still a hidden secret, and UF also offers scholarship support for students with spinal cord injuries.
Respite Care and Independence
Parents often want to be the full-time caregiver, but that can lead to exhaustion. Bringing in personal care attendants gives parents room to return to being a parent, and to grieve, while students learn to direct their own care. UF even offers a fully accessible study abroad program in London.
The Whole Family Is Affected
When one child is injured, siblings often take on more responsibility and may feel overlooked. Gonzalez says their frustration and resentment are valid and need a safe space, whether through counseling or one-on-one time with a parent.
Key Takeaways
- A serious injury doesn’t have to end the dream of living on campus and earning a degree.
- Ask colleges about housing accommodations, care attendant support, and reduced course loads.
- Caregivers need respite too. Accepting help is good for the whole family.
- Make space for siblings’ feelings after a family member is injured.
Ways to Listen
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