Why One-Size Fits All Isn’t Enough Supporting Students of All Types at Southeastern Community College

In 2022, the CDC reported that ​​students with learning differences make up 19% of the undergraduate population, yet only 37% of undergraduate students report their learning disability to their respective colleges. With such diverse student types, colleges must rethink their approach to providing accessible education, particularly in an environment where success depends greatly on a student’s ability to navigate college independently.

After recognizing that 1 in 5 of their students have a learning difference, Southeastern Community College chose to reassess its approach to learning accommodations and student support. Led by Angela Mickelson, SCC’s Disability Services Coordinator, SCC established a series of accommodations that provide engaged student support and empower students to understand and advocate for their needs.

Consider Sydney, a sophomore with Dyslexia, Dysphonia, and Dysgraphia. Despite those challenges, Sydney has become one of the first in her family to attend college, choosing to study welding, a traditionally male-dominated field. Her determined spirit, matched with SCC’s personalized support, has driven Sydney to break stereotype after stereotype.

“A lot of kids don’t think we can do things because of our learning disabilities, but, no, we can!” – Sydney ‘24, SCC Student