Jump to content

Introduction

So, you’ve been told it’s time to start thinking about college. But where do you start? Google? U.S. News & World Report? Well those are good places, but the best place to start is with you.

Before you can find the college that fits you best, you need to take some time to get to know yourself. We’re not talking about favorite colors and foods, but rather your dreams, strengths and values. Learn about your disability and set some goals — this knowledge will empower you to talk with people about what you want and need as you finish high school. Knowing yourself will help you choose a major and a career path, which will ultimately help you find the college right for you.

Get started

Start by watching the introduction video. Then it’s on to “My learning style” and the other sections of My Place, working your way to “My advocacy plan.” Finally, take a look at the “Top 10 tips” for a quick review and click on “Reaching my goals.” Once through these steps, it will be time to fill out your goal sheet for My Place.

Duration: 0:01:39

Transcript »

Here’s a quick glimpse of My Place

  • My learning style – Find out how you learn best. This knowledge will be very helpful when you are picking out your college classes, learning new information and studying for your tests.
  • Knowing my strengths – Figure out your strengths. Everyone has strengths, but sometimes it can be hard to discover them. Knowing what your strengths are will help you choose the classes that are right for you and help you find a major and career in which you can excel.
  • Exploring my interests – Investigate your interests. Determine what you like to do, what holds your attention and areas in which you have a passion. These interests will play a role in choosing a major, your college experience and eventual satisfaction with your job.
  • Accepting my disability – Learn more about disability, how to make sense of your documentation and to accept differences in yourself and others. Read about famous people with disabilities and find out how they use their strengths in their careers.
  • Setting my goals – Make a plan to accomplish your goals. Sometimes large goals can seem overwhelming. Learn how to take a goal, break it into smaller steps and achieve your objectives.
  • My advocacy plan – Learn how to speak up for what you want in an effective way. This skill is important to have in college because you are ultimately in charge of your education and will need to communicate with faculty, advisers and college personnel.