[NABS-L] Goal statements

[Sami Osborne]

Hi Kelsey,



I completely understand where you're coming from. However, ethically, I don't think colleges are permitted to deny admission based solely on disability. This would fall in direct violation of both the ADA and IDEA, both of which are intended to protect you in any kind of educational setting.



That being said, I personally don't see the harm in discussing the issues you brought up here as they relate specifically to being blind. In fact, if you ask me, I'd make the argument that being as open and honest as you can is actually an advantage more than a hindrance. That is to say, you've just admitted to having issues the first time around, and then finding solutions which made the experience easier for you. This will hopefully make them see that you're a good problem solver because, or in spite of, being blind, which is really a good thing, don't you think?



Another way that being as open and honest as possible could potentially be advantageous is that if your application does end up getting accepted, the school could then direct you to potential on-campus resources you might need, such as the Disability Services Department.



Hopefully others will be able to chime in with other ideas, although I do hope you find what I've just shared helpful.



Best of luck,



Sami    On Aug 6, 2024 6:36 PM, Kelsey Nicolay via NABS-L <nabs-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>
> Hello,
> I am looking at applying to a college that requires a goal st at tement as part of the applic at tion process. the program coordinator let me know that one of the points to address is any questionable academic history, such as starting colleg€ on the wrong foot and how these concerns are no longer going to be an issue should I be admitted into their program. Because of my blindness, I had a hard time adjusting to living on campus my first semester, so my grades suffered as a result, but I did much better the second semester and every semester after that. The difficulties I had were mainly having to do with getting around campus, having the appropriate technology skills to deal with various projects, etc. I was curious whether I should include this in my goal statement since disclosing my blindness this early in the application process might cause them to deny me admission, but I also don't want to lie either as they will be able to see the grades on my transcript. What do you all suggest in this situation and how should I word it so it doesn't come off negatively? 
> Sent from Kelsey Nicolay’s iPhone 
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