Kent State University takes great pride in its educational opportunities for students of all ability levels. Student Accessibility Services (SAS) provides additional accommodations for students with all types of disabilities. Over 1,500 students have connected with SAS, easing disability-related difficulties and furthering their educations. Some of the students who have connected with SAS opened up about the importance of SAS to their education.
Josie V. is an Integrative Studies major who battles chronic neuromuscular inflammation and neurological disorders. These often result in debilitating physical and cognitive fatigue. With SAS, she has broken down barriers that made learning more difficult. "We talked about what the barrier is and what's possible," Josie reflects. "It's made such a tremendous impact on my college experience."
Owen D. is an Outdoor Recreation and Park Management major. With ADHD and dyslexia, he often requires more time to process information. "It confuses people, and oftentimes people think I'm making it up," Owen said. With the help of SAS, he has been able to better navigate the college experience. "SAS has helped me advocate for myself. I know that someone is in my corner."
Madison R. is a freshman student who has been diagnosed with anxiety and ADHD. They encourage students with similar difficulties to contact SAS and take advantage of the help that is offered. "If you have a disability, do not be afraid to reach out to the SAS office," Madison said. "They will be willing to help you and have things that will make your life easier."
Kelsey K. is a Zoology major with Asperger's syndrome. After recalling a time when she felt ashamed of her condition, she emphasized the importance of SAS support. "You should never feel ashamed of it," said Kelsey. "This is just an extra thing in your toolbelt that you need to survive."
These are just a few of the testimonies from students who have benefitted immensely from the support of SAS. The safe space that SAS offers has helped hundreds of students thrive in their educational journey at Kent State.