Disability checkbox

Colleges & Universities A-Z University of Florida
1

<p>I am applying to UF online and I am a learning disabled student. (Though that doesn't mean I don't have good SAT scores and grades) On the personal information page there is a box you can check to voluntarily disclose your disability for "special consideration." They claim it won't be used against you in any way and WON'T hurt your application. I researched it further, and checking the box sends your application to the office of students with disabilities to be examined by a different team of special admissions reps. My guidance counselor says I should check it, because it explains why I only took one AP class, total. (AP Environment, which from my understanding from other students isn't an impressive AP to take.) However, I did also take a college Junior level class this summer during a high-school program at the local 4-year university, and got an A. Because I started high school fresh out of remedial classes and am now in classes like Honors Calculus it shows that I am still a very determined student because I had to reach that level in four relatively short years. (The grades in my individual classes are also excellent, and are mostly A's.) Naturally, though I am fully qualified to check the box, I am still worried that somehow this will hurt me. I am not sure how, but I am worried that when they look at my confidential files about my disability, they will see it includes some unwanted personality attributes at the school. (shyness, in my case)</p>

<p>Though I doubt I will find anyone on CC with a similar experience with someone they knew (or preferably themselves) who "checked the box," I just wanted to check to see someone else's experience with it and if they think it helped or hurt their chances at UF.</p>

2

<p>Well, when I was up at UF the admissions councelor said that it is there only to help you, so if you CAN use it, I think you SHOULD. If it can only help you, why wouldn't you? I really doubt it would hurt you anyways, especially if you explain your problem and it truly is a disability.</p>

3

<p>How, with a straight face, can you have "good SAT scores and grades" and classify yourself as learning disabled? Perhaps at one time, you may have been, but what is the point now? Just to get an admissions edge? Shame on you!</p>

<p>Early in my school years I didn't focus as I should have and as a result had horrendous grades. I can tell you that I did NOT have ADD. It was mostly a discipline thing. Other things were just more interesting to me than school work. By high school, though, I snapped out of it and buckled down.</p>

<p>Every time I hear a child diagnosed with ADD, I shudder. I would hate to go through life thinking that I was learning disabled. When people are told they are disabled or that they will always be discriminated against, they internalize it and it becomes part of their identity. But it can only hold them back.</p>

<p>Suppose you have a congenital defect in one of your legs, which requires you to use a cane or even a wheelchair. So you get a handicapped hangtag for your car. Fine. You eventually have surgical procedure, which makes your leg essentially 100% functional. Now you can walk and even run without assistance. Are you still handicapped? Do you retain your handicap hangtag?</p>

<p>You should be evaluated on the abilities you have right now. If you have the academic ability and preparation to gain admission, you'll succeed at UF. If not, you should apply to a university that is a better match to your abilities. If you're "learning disabled", then why in the world would you want to study at UF. The competition there is stiff. Will UF inform all your professors that you should be spotted, say, a letter grade in every class? I don't see the point.</p>

4

<p>Congratulations, you are probably the most offensive person I have ever seen. I disability is documented. Heck, even the College Board approves of them. Trust me, they're thorough! I still need accommodations because of a visual tracking problem I have, along with a psych one. BTW, I agree with you that ADD is over diagnosed, but that is not my case. How can you be learning disabled at one time but then suddenly be cured at the next? There is no cure! Though there is no doubt that this box theoretically would give an "admissions edge" I am not some selfish student looking to disenfranchise others. I worked out of remedial classes and into honors/AP in a ridiculously SHORT 9 years, and I still have issues. This box is mostly to point out a reason for not taking on AP earlier in HS. Shame on YOU.</p>

5

<p>Sorry, I had to type that last message real fast. First:</p>

<p>MY disability is documented</p>

<p>and it took me a ridiculously SHORT 4 years!</p>

<p>What do I need to do to make you happy? A copy of my psych evaluation from last year? Stop approaching learning disabilities from the mentality that all people with them look and sound like Forest Gump. The disability checkbox exists for students with disabilities that still have the stats and scores reflective of the average UF student. What they are looking for are legitimate explanations for things that may have occurred during high school that impacted your overall grade because of the disability. In my case, a lower number of AP classes. My counselor, as I mentioned before, even contacted someone at UF, who said straight up that it is a legit reason to check the box if I so wished.</p>

6

<p>I agree w/ dvm that that post was out of line... in your response you just proved why you need to click the box (because you do have a documented problem and can prove it). Also, you shouldn't feel like you are trying to be selfish, you are just answering the question honestly. If there was a box that said "you live in a 2 story house", and you did, you would check the box because it applies to you. I, as a non-disabled student applying to UF am not offended by you clicking the box and possibly getting "an edge" if you honestly have a documented disability.</p>

7

<p>Thanks. Right now, I am just worried about the structure of my application. Before I knew this box even existed, the essay I was planning to submit was also about my disability. Though I may still send that essay (It could go well, because it shows my personal side and work ethic) I don't want the disability to appear like it is the center of my application and "the reason" I should be admitted. I want my current senior year performance compared to freshman year to be my great quality.</p>

8

<p>dvm<br>
I think you should be very proud of the strides you have made academically in such a relatively short time. I am forever amazed at the number of people who are still ignorant concerning learning disabilities in this day and age. Einstein, Edison, da Vinci, etc. would not be welcomed by some who misconstrue a disability as a deficiency of IQ. I am a teacher and have had numerous students over the years with learning difficulties; many with ADHD, which, by the way FLBoy, is a true learning disability.<br>
Dvm since you have the documentation, you can check the box. Of course, it is completely up to you. The fact that you have come as far as quickly as you have shows great determination and perserverance on your part. Those are attributes that should make a positive impression on any admissions officer. I am glad for you that your school system was sensitive to your learning needs and met them at each stage of your academic experience. I'm sure whether you attend UF or some other university, you will find if you inform the school of your situation they will make sure that any accomodations needed will be available to you. By law, this is required.
Your GPA and SAT/ACT scores will speak for themselves. Your disability should neither help nor hurt you in the process of admissions.<br>
Good luck with all of your apps! I hope you get your #1 choice!</p>

9

<p>dvm
I took a look at your academic stats. They are solid. I would only suggest that you look at taking the SAT/ACT maybe once more. You are so close to Honors Program status. In honors, you would have smaller classes and would have the option of honors housing. I think it would be worth trying for it since all you need is 30 points on your SAT. Just a thought.</p>

10

<p>dvm258, exactly what are you looking for? You have obviously worked hard and have achieved a commendable level of success. But apparently, that’s not enough. You want a bonus, a break, an advantage over others, which is really just academic welfare.</p>

<p>I was the first in my family to graduate from college. My parents divorced when I was young, and we had scarce little. I had no role model or guidance to help me prepare for college. But, you know, I had it in my mind that I was going to go to college, and early on it just never occurred to me that anyone owed me anything. My eyes were opened in college, however, when opportunities were literally taken from me and handed over to others because their skin was darker than mine. Socio-economically, there was no difference between me and the deemed ones, yet somehow they were more worthy than me.</p>

<p>I am helping my children prepare for college and trying to give them the guidance I lacked. Undoubtedly, they will achieve a much higher level than I have. It’s taken a couple of generations to reach this. The current mindset in society, however, is that everything must happen now. The hard-work route is just too time-consuming.</p>

<p>I just cannot see what justification you have for UF giving you any edge. Are you trying to suggest that your development curve is steep? You started low, but your growth potential is much higher than the typical applicant? That is, you may be slightly less prepared and less capable at the moment, but soon you will overtake the average student and graduate near the top of your class?</p>

11

<p>I sent the application, and the documentation was sent the next day. It's really driving my psychologist crazy though. All the colleges want the ORIGINAL copy of the documentation. How can that be done when 3 others also need it? We're just sending them photocopies of the real one but with a new signature, date, and confidential stamp.That should be good enough anyway.</p>

<p>Skibird, thanks for your advice. I have taken the SAT twice to get the 1400, but had no luck. I am taking the ACT again on November 10th, so maybe that will give me the score I need. (I got a 30 last time, but with a 34 reading score)</p>

<p>However, I must mention this. My school system did not "meet my learning needs." They never did in Kindergarten, and they still didn't in 4th grade after which I moved out. I then went to two different private schools, which were also flawed in how they handled students with disabilities. It wasn't until I found the school I go to now that I have been able to do what I did. What sets it apart? It actually lets students transition into mainstream and beyond, without confining them to remedial classes, not being given a chance to get out. What a concept! <em>Sarcasm</em></p>

<p>Every year, the state of Florida is failing thousands of students like me, simply because the government doesn't give the students a chance to improve, and is too focused on improving FCAT scores. Every Sunday I volunteer at a torah school, and had an interesting conversation with a teacher who was substituting a 4th grade class today. His students didn't know what World War II was. They didn't know which side was which. They didn't have any kind of general idea of the years of which it happened. Point being, if it isn't on a standardized test, it isn't worth teaching anymore. You know why the state of Florida doesn't allow students like me to improve? We would have to take the FCAT, and ruin their "improving" statistics.</p>

<p>FLBoy....I don't know what else to say to you. I am in no way shunning your achievements either. I don't believe I should be admitted because I am "slightly less prepared." The fact is I AM prepared, dare I say, perhaps more than the top students at overrated Cypress Bay High. (Look it up) Saying I avoided the hard work route is plain ignorance. Lets assume one of your children is about to enter freshman year, is an honors mathematics student, but because of a computer error, is moved to remedial math and it can't be fixed because of the school bureaucracy. Even at your child's level, it would take YEARS to reach his/her level again because students can't advance mid-year. Of course, this is a completely hypothetical situation. I am sorry I used one of your children as an example, but it appears necessary to demonstrate this subject to you.</p>

12

<p>It used to be that everyone took responsibility for themselves and their family. Now, sadly, it's in vogue to blame the government and others for one's shortcomings and failures. I have always believed that it is my responsibility to teach my kids. Public schools are there to supplement and facilitate, but the responsibility is still mine. Education to too valuable a thing to entrust to anyone but yourself.</p>

<p>But, okay, suppose you do place full trust and responsibility in the government to complete your education. Logically, then, your work product should rightfully be theirs. Why else should tax dollars be spent on your special needs?</p>

13

<p>FLBoy,</p>

<p>I looked over your post that listed your socioeconomic situation while growing up, and I must sincerely say that I am proud of your accomplishments. You truly took what life gave you and made the best out of it. I understand being "the white kid," watching equal or lesser academic quality minority students receive admission because of their skin color. Congratulations for overcoming your obstacles and moving towards a brighter future.</p>

<p>However, I also understand being "the disabled kid" who doesn't get any help from the federal government. dvm258 was able to advance from remedial to advanced classes, which is considerably harder than your blessed "normal" mind is able to comprehend. </p>

<p>Keep in mind, College Board doesn't just "give away" accomodations. In order to receive these, your learning disability must be deemed "acute." I didn't receive any accomodations with my 2 different learning hinderances, so dvm isn't just going on a whim to get this deserved help.</p>

<p>Shame on you for accusing dvm of manipulating the system. You have failed to notice that you are doing something that dvm isn't: dvm is not playing the martyr. Dvm has simply explained the situation, not repeating anything for dramatic emphasis, and asking for unbiased input. You didn't stop at a polite, unbiased "You should not check the box." No, you had go into an ignorant rant about how "undeserving" the learning disabled are with your only excuse being YOUR life and YOUR experience. </p>

<p>We've all been somehow put down by the system; it's an unfortunate reality. But a different mental process is considerably distinct from a different skin color. dvm deserves different (note: "different," not "special) consideration for admission, but you just can't get over that. dvm's credentials could most likely get him/her admitted regardless of the learning situation. You need to put away your bitterness and accept the fact that a learning disorder is a disability, NOT a crutch.</p>

14

<p>Skibird, I just looked at my GPA, and it is kinda inaccurate. My school has a weird GPA system:</p>

<p>You get "partial GPA credit" depending if your grade is a B+, B, B+ etc. For example, you get a 3.0 if you get a B- but a 3.67 if you get a B+.</p>

<p>My school gives one full extra credit point for honors courses, and two for AP courses. Of course, this drastically changes my weighted GPA.</p>

<p>The weighted and unweighted GPAs include electives.</p>

<p>This may or may not drastically change your, and Write On's, perception of what I have done, however. My cousin attended UF about 5 years ago, and at the same time worked in admissions while attending classes. (I am not sure in what capacity) She told me that UF, and other public universities, understand how competitive my school is and typically view REGULAR courses at my school the same as honors courses at a Florida public school. Please remember that this is not fact, and is just what I have been told by her, and someone else I know who worked at UF as well. (My school also uses college books in honors courses) </p>

<p>Thanks for helping me Write On. I don't really want to respond to the guy anymore.</p>

15

<p>yeh, um so FLBoy is a ****in idiot---</p>

<p>Dvm258 don't even respond to his posts. He is stupid.</p>

16

<p>My arguments, though not always palitable to some, are founded on reason and fairness. What still amazes me, however, is how reactive people can be to perceived attacks on their entitlements. Biker, for example, cannot formulate even the weakest arguement to support his/her position, but instead laspes into childish name-calling and then attempts to turn others against me.</p>

<p>This forum is best served by sharing information on and debating all sides of all issues related to UF. Let reason prevail. Hate and virulence have no place here, IMVHO.</p>

17

<p>dvm258</p>

<p>It would be to your advantage to speak to someone in Admissions and find out what your weighted GPA is according to their standards. This would belp you to see where you stand especially in regard to their Honors College requirements.</p>

<p>As far as FL Boy and his comments are concerned. He has shown himself to only be interested in playing the role of an antagonist on this thread. His debate, as he has called it, is quite flawed since his argument holds no validity whatsoever. Obviously, he has issues and hopefully will work through those at some point in his life. </p>

<p>You have a very bright future ahead of you, largely as a result of your own diligence and desire to succeed. If you were a weak individual, you would have given up long ago when the school system wasn't fulfilling your educational needs. But instead you have pressed on and beat the odds.
Your academic record speaks for itself. ( I tend to wonder how many alumni would be able to make the cut if they were up against the competition and standards that are in place today. )
Regardless of whether or not you are admitted to UF, I am confident that your post high school academic experience will be a fruitful one.<br>
Best wishes!</p>

18

<p>Thanks. I found a GPA conversion sheet on the internet for the Florida universities. <a href="http://cyberguidance.net/college/recalgpa.pdf%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://cyberguidance.net/college/recalgpa.pdf&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>However, it appears to be based on block scheduling, so I am not sure if I did it right. My school transcript says I have a 4.03 academic GPA. (It excludes all subjects that aren't English, Math, Science, Social Studies, or Foreign Language) Recalculated using the sheet, I got 3.57 cumulative weighted academic GPA as the result. I am not sure if I did it right though, because as I said before, it is based on block scheduling. Keep in mind that this GPA reflects my Freshman and Sophomore years, which each only had one honors academic class. (Compare that to all but one plus AP this year) Getting more emphasis and attention on my Junior and Senior grades, as well as giving a reason for the fact of my smaller number of AP classes earlier on, are the reasons for sending the documentation in the first place! Using only my Junior year grades, I have a 3.95 weighted academic GPA. For comparison, using only my Freshman year grades I had a 3.25 weighted academic GPA.</p>

<p>I wish they were able to see my first semester senior grades. Those would definitely help. The first quarter, I got nothing less than an 89 in each of my courses, and with just a bit of a boost can have straight A's for the semester. (This includes the new AP classes, and the 3000 level course I took over the summer at FAU)</p>

19

<p>FLBoy,</p>

<p>In your last post, you state calmly and eloquently that your arguments are founded on "reason and fairness" and feign confusion because people become offended at your harmless, impartial, benevolent comments.</p>

<p>You then go further in saying that this forum is for "sharing information on and debating all sides of all issues related to UF."</p>

<p>And yet you said earlier:</p>

<p>"You want a bonus, a break, an advantage over others, which is really just academic welfare."</p>

<p>and</p>

<p>"How, with a straight face, can you have "good SAT scores and grades" and classify yourself as learning disabled? Perhaps at one time, you may have been, but what is the point now? Just to get an admissions edge? Shame on you!"</p>

<p>and</p>

<p>"Will UF inform all your professors that you should be spotted, say, a letter grade in every class? I don't see the point."</p>

<p>and, in addition to these unnoffending, "relevant" comments, you talked about educating your children in practically every other post. Please...don't bring the innocent into your montage of ignorance.</p>

<p>Making unjustified accusations of manipulating the system? Expressing disdain because of your own experiences? Implying that rightful accomodations to learning disorders indicate decreased academic ability? Your comments are far too bitter, vindictive, and serpentine to be "founded on reason and fairness".</p>

<p>Take your own advice:
"Let reason prevail."</p>

20

<p>dvm258,</p>

<p>It sounds like you calculated your GPA correctly (my school's and UF's calculated GPA are quite different as well). After looking at your stats, I personally believe you will have no problem getting accepted into UF. Congratulations on all of your accomplishments!</p>