Wednesday 14-10-2020 - 10:39

Hi, my name is Elle and I am a Classics and Art History second-year at St. Chad’s College!

Moving to University as a student with a disability can be very daunting, especially in the times of Covid-19. You may be worried about how you will cope in a new environment, or how you can keep yourself safe outside of your family bubble. These are all perfectly natural concerns to have, but it is important to remember that your college, as well as the wider University, has your health and happiness at heart. On top of that, I have come up with three tips for students with disabilities, to help you settle in and, importantly, feel safe in these uncertain times! 

Tip 1: Take your time

Although first year will be very different compared to usual, it will still be quite an intense, yet enjoyable time for every fresher. Therefore, as a fresher with a disability, it is important you put your health and wellbeing first. During my Freshers’ Week last year, there were a few occasions when I decided not to take part in some of the activities, and instead went back to my room for some down time. You shouldn’t be afraid of missing out, as you can only have fun if you’re feeling at your best! But what about missing out on opportunities to make friends, you ask? Another vital thing to remember is that it is possible to make friends after the beginning of term! The great thing about the Durham colleges is that you are constantly surrounded by a lovely community, one which will make continuing to get to know people a lot easier. 

Tip 2: Get in touch with Durham University’s Disability Support Team

One of the most important things to do when you get to Durham is to get in touch with the Disability Support team, who are currently offering their service online, to allow you access to the support you deserve. This is vital, as the Disability Support team can make sure that both your college and department are up to speed with any support you may need, such as exam concessions. Also, the team can help you with applying for DSA (Disabled Students' Allowance) if you haven’t already. This, if you are eligible, gives you access to all sorts of support whilst you’re at University. For example, I have a mindmap app on my laptop, which is very helpful for planning essays! You can also bag yourself a free printer, so if you’re eligible, I would definitely take advantage!

Tip 3: Take advantage of your college welfare team

One of the great aspects of being in a college at Durham University, is that you have access to support outside of the main University. Even better, this support is mainly student-led, which is great as you can talk to fellow students for a more intimate and casual experience. Therefore, if you’re feeling as though your disability is affecting your time at University, whether you feel you’re struggling with lectures, or having to ask for extensions repeatedly, there is always someone there to listen to you. This, I believe, can make a huge difference, because your college welfare team is filled with people you can trust, people who want to help on a voluntary basis. 

Don’t be afraid of being a student with a disability at Durham, there is plenty of support available to you, and an array of people there who want to help! Have a wonderful first year!

For more information about being a fresher with a disability, check out the Students’ With Disabilities Association’s Freshers’ Guide here.