FAQs

The program is only open to students who are officially registered with disability services. If you think the program would be a good fit for you, reach out to your access coordinator to get set up with the accommodation and register for the program.

Registration

How do I register/schedule a first meeting?

If you are already registered with disability services and have the learning specialist accommodation, you should get an email each semester with the registration link. Fill out the registration form to sign up for a learning specialist meeting. Our program assistant will reach out to you regarding an initial meeting!

Is there a registration deadline?

No! We ask students to re-register each semester so we can keep track of who is actively involved in the program, but there is no official deadline.

Meetings and scheduling

How often do I meet with my learning specialist?

Most students met with their specialist weekly! We do also have an option for students to meet twice a week or do shorter check-ins with their specialist. We also offer our community space twice a week that can act as additional support.

How long are Learning Specialist meetings?

Learning Specialist meetings are 45 minutes long, with the exception of initial meetings. Initial meetings are about an hour long (so we can get to know each other and set goals).

Starting in Fall 2024, we are offering additional short check-ins in 20–30-minute increments for students who want to have the ongoing accountability of weekly meetings, but don't need/want the whole 45-minute session. Connect with your LS to learn more!

What happens if I miss a meeting?

Life happens-- we understand that sometimes you may have to miss a meeting. If you contact your specialist at least two hours in advance to cancel, then you are all set. If you do not reach out to cancel, and miss more than two meetings in a row, we will move you to "inactive" status so we can give other students a chance to use the time slot. If you decide you want to start meeting again, no worries! Just reach out to your specialist and they can re-activate your status.

Can I attend meetings remotely?

Yes! We offer zoom meetings for all students. Ask your specialist about scheduling a remote meeting.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for meetings?

Nope! You do not have to prepare anything in advance. We just ask that students be open to learning with us, trying some new things, and engaging with us respectfully (this includes notifying us of cancellations, using appropriate language, and respecting any boundaries your learning specialist may set).

Learning Specialist Role

Can a learning specialist contact my professors for me?

Unfortunately, learning specialists cannot contact your professors for you because we are students ourselves! We have this boundary to protect our own student standings and make sure that our rights are protected. We can help you with self-advocacy skills, review emails or other communication with your professors, role play or prepare for meetings with you, and we can connect you with your access coordinator, who is able to contact professors on your behalf.

Are learning specialists' academic advisors?

Though we do talk about academics a lot, Learning Specialists are not official academic advisors. We cannot give advice about which classes to take or your specific progress in your major. We do, however, often help students with self-advocacy skills with their advisors. We can help you prepare for meetings with your advisor, talk about your courseload, and brainstorm areas of academic interest if you are considering a major switch.

Can learning specialists change my accommodations?

Learning specialists do not write accommodation letters, so we cannot make changes to your official accommodations. However, we can connect you with your access coordinator, help you interpret or view your accommodations letter, and help you understand what types of accommodations might work for you.

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