Congratulations on becoming a UNH Wildcat! We look forward to working with you.
The transition from high school to college is an exciting time for students and their families. It can be a time of uncertainty regarding expectations and responsibilities. There are some important differences between high school and college accommodations. The educational responsibilities shift from a shared model between the school system, parents, and student to one in which the student is solely responsible for their education.
Implementation of accommodations is student-driven and at the request of the student. This includes but is not limited to:
Students who are undecided about using accommodations in college are welcome to meet with SAS to explore their options. There is a higher level of privacy and confidentiality in college compared to K-12. The nature of the disability and diagnosis is not shared with faculty. If the student chooses to send letters of accommodations to their instructors, only the approved accommodations will be included – not the reason for them.
Families can appropriately support their student by encouraging self-advocacy and independence. If you think a service or accommodation would be helpful, or if your student shares a concern, please ask them to contact SAS.
While SAS works directly with students, we are available to speak with parents provided the student has signed a Release of Information (ROI). The release allows SAS to share information. It does not alter the responsibilities or decision-making rights of the student. In the absence of an ROI, SAS can only share general information about our processes. SAS is unable to acknowledge whether contact with the student has occurred or not.
SAS is committed to supporting students as they transition from high school to college. We are here to assist as they navigate the services and resources offered at UNH. We provide guidance and referrals in matters related to policies and procedures of the University. We support and help develop individual responsibility and self-advocacy.
Contact SAS as soon as you have any concerns or questions. SAS can only help when we hear from you!
Before talking about the specifics of how to engage with SAS, it is important to discuss how accommodations are different than services you might have received in high school. The document below outlines several common differences between high school and postsecondary ed. This is not an exclusive list as some universities, colleges, and professors may have different procedures.