Should I Even Think of College for My Son or Daughter?

Leaving high school is an exciting and tense time for students and their families. When considering what will happen next, the possibility of college is often in the mix. As family members of individuals with intellectual disabilities (also referred to as cognitive disabilities, cognitive impairments or formerly mental retardation), we may not know of the possibilities or be hesitant to encourage sons and daughters to consider attending college classes, at least initially. We weigh the risks against the benefits and end up with all kinds of questions about safety, supports, funding, transportation, and courses. While these are important questions to ask, such thoughts may create more concern than creativity, leading us to quickly lose sight of the many benefits of going to college.

Benefits of College

"No one ever said that my daughter could go to college. They just assumed that she’d go to the vocational program with all of the other students with cognitive disabilities. This is a brand new way of thinking."

As for others, the benefits of attending college for individuals with intellectual disabilities can be measured in their growth in a number of areas, including academic and personal skill building, independence, self-advocacy, and self-confidence and new friendships. For individuals with disabilities, this growth is also reflected in increased self-esteem, when they begin to see themselves as enjoying what their same age peers without disabilities are experiencing. Being part of campus life, taking classes (whether auditing or for credit), joining student organizations, and learning to navigate a world of high expectations leads to the development of skills and confidence needed for successful adulthood.

We know that people who have had both access to the general curriculum and high expectations are more likely to be employed as adults. Keeping college in the mix of possibilities as our sons and daughters explore which steps to take after high school says that we believe in their potential for success.

Think College

"It took me awhile to really see that college was a possibility for my son but once I talked to another mother, I saw it could happen. I learned that there were people and resources that could help me, guide me. It wasn’t quite as scary knowing that I wouldn’t be alone in this."

So, let's begin by saying, "Why not college?" Hearing ourselves say these words may sound awkward at first, but after awhile we will become accustomed to having college as a possibility. Then, when we hear our sons and daughters talk about going to college, we will start saying, "Yes, our son will be going to college next year.

Let's figure out how to make it happen!"

More and more students with intellectual disabilities are attending college over the past decade. Use the COLLEGE SEARCH feature on this website see what is going on in your area.