<p>Hello!
This past week, I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder. In some ways, it was a relief to know that THIS was why my grades were a "B" average when I really thought that I could be getting A's. I have started taking Adderall and during a summer studying group, I find myself able to better "absorb" the information and for the first time, everything is making sense to me in terms of school- I no longer feel like the weaker link. </p>
<p>However, I am scared that schools will view this negatively- "Oh, she has ADD, she wouldn't be able to keep up with the work load" even though I KNOW I can, despite a tiny disadvantage. I do not want to go to a school that specializes in learning disabilities, simply because those often cost more money and I do not feel that it is needed for me.</p>
<p>Would this make me look like a weaker applicant even though the chances of my grade shooting up this year are very large and I have good extra-curriculars?</p>
<p>Thanks in advance, you guys! :(
Blaine</p>
<p>I actually think this will be an advantage. Play it up in your essays–how you overcame your disorder. Most schools are offering more and more support for people with ADHD and ADD, especially since they are very, very common. And with medication/you trying, there’s no reason for them to believe that you can’t keep up with the workload.</p>
<p>I feel like I read an article on how colleges were becoming more accessible to people with ADHD, dyslexia, and other common learning disorders, but I’m not sure where. But it shouldn’t be a problem on your application.</p>
<p>That’s what I was thinking for my essay’s too; Often times, one of the essay questions to choose from <em>is</em> about overcoming an obstacle. Thank you! @topaz1116 </p>
<p>Use the search function to find previous posts dealing with this topic. Most BS have PLENTY of kids with ADHD, both on meds and not. My DS has ADHD, is doing very well at Deerfield-- as are lots of other kids. We were straightforward with the school about his issues, and they were straightforward with us-- told us they assess each case, let families know if they DON’T think the kid will do well there, but take plenty of kids they DO think will do well, and support them as needed. It’s been a complete non- issue for my son-- they let all his teachers know every year , and everyone’s been great (although they still tell him he needs to be more organized, which, of course, he knows).</p>
<p>Just a little aside: it’s fine to write whatever you want on an essay, and I would certainly talk to the schools or write something about the issue to help explain your grades (assuming your grades now go up). But, as far as your essay is concerned, I’m actually not sure the schools will see this as a great disorder you overcame, given how many kids they’ve got with the same issue. Up to you, of course, and maybe you have a unique story to tell, but there are a lot of ADD kids at every one of the top BS.</p>
<p>@Daykidmom Thank you so much for the insight! I really appreciate it; more than anything I suppose I’m worried about my grades pre-diagnosis. I guess I just slipped through the cracks because I wasn’t bouncing off the walls and typically kept to myself in class. I agree about the essay, too. Definitely something to keep in mind!</p>
<p>Right-- I certainly think it’s fine to point it out (again-- either verbally or in writing somewhere on the application) to explain the grades. Just don’t worry they’ll think it means that you can’t hack the work load-- especially if your grades go up next semester. Lots of luck to you.</p>
<p>@Daykidmom Thank you a billion times! Your words are much appreciated and very helpful. Hope you’re enjoying the last days of summer :)</p>