Describe the name of your disability or condition. It could be a formal diagnosis (e.g., "ADHD," "dyslexia," "epilepsy") or a broader description (e.g., "physical disability," "learning difference").

Example of Naming

• "I have been diagnosed with dyslexia."
• "I have a mobility impairment due to spinal cord injury."

Provide the date or age when you were first diagnosed. This helps to establish how long you have been living with the condition and if it has evolved or changed over time.

Example of When You Were Diagnosed

• "I was diagnosed with ADHD at age 8."
• "I was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome in 2020."

Some conditions have periods when symptoms become worse, often called flare-ups. Explain if your condition is cyclical or if you experience intermittent episodes that impact your ability to function.

Example of Flare-ups

• "I experience periodic migraines that last for 1-2 days, about twice a month."
• "My asthma worsens in the winter months and during physical activity."

Certain situations, environments, or emotions can trigger symptoms or worsen your condition. Identify these triggers to better understand how they impact your daily activities.

Example of Triggers

• "Bright lights and loud noises trigger my migraines."
• "Stressful situations or lack of sleep trigger my anxiety symptoms."

If Yes, What Is the Treatment, and What Impact Does It Have on Your Ability to Function?

If you receive medical treatment, whether it's medication, therapy, or another intervention, explain the details. Mention how this treatment impacts your ability to focus, function, or manage day-to-day activities.

Example of Ongoing Treatment

• "I take medication for anxiety, which helps to reduce panic attacks, but sometimes the medication makes me feel drowsy, which affects my concentration."
• "I have physical therapy sessions for my back pain twice a week, which helps me move more easily, though I often feel fatigued afterward."

Listening, Reading, Typing, Writing, Moving, Sleeping, or Social Interactions?

Describe the specific ways your disability impacts different areas of your life. These could include challenges in communication, mobility, academic tasks, or social situations.

Example of Disability Impact

• Typing/Writing: "My handwriting can be difficult to read, and typing is slow due to fine motor difficulties from my condition."
• Moving: "I use a wheelchair due to limited mobility, which affects my ability to get around campus."
• Sleeping: "I struggle with insomnia because of my anxiety, which makes it hard for me to concentrate the next day."

Recognizing your strengths is an important part of understanding your disability. Focus on what you do well despite your challenges. These strengths can be valuable assets in your personal and academic life.

Example of My Strengths

• "I have strong problem-solving skills and am very creative."
• "I am great at managing time and organizing tasks when I have a structured routine."

Identifying your challenges will help you understand areas where you may need additional support or accommodation. These challenges are not limitations but aspects of your condition that may require adjustments.

Example of My Challenges

• "I find it difficult to focus during long lectures, which affects my ability to retain information."
• "I often feel exhausted due to my chronic pain, which can make sitting in long classes or focusing on lectures more challenging."