This summer I had an opportunity to volunteer at PJC’s Disability Support Services or otherwise known as DSS. The staff there welcomed me and showed me the many things that they can do for students. As a student of their services, I was already aware of many of their services, but this summer I learned much more. I learned of the different disabilities that students can have and what services DSS can provide for those students. I have also learned some things about myself. I am still trying to figure out what career path I want to take in life. This gave me some hands on experience in a field that I have some interest in. I had the opportunity to sit in on some appointments with students and have some interaction with them. I have also improved my research skills by helping them with an internet project in which I was determining how DSS could improve their website. Not only was I looking for content, but I was also verifying that the site worked well with screen readers for those that are unable to read the screen themselves.
Some of you may be wondering what exactly this service can do for students. Anyone who has a documented disability can apply for this service. A documented disability could be physical, learning, emotional, or psychological. Accommodations can be provided to those students that qualify. Examples would be notetakers, special classroom seating arrangements, extended test time, and so forth. All someone has to do is set up an appointment with one of the staff to determine if they qualify for these services.