Are you just going through the motions in college—or are you standing out? In this episode, I'm revealing 5 practical ways of how to stand out in college and set yourself apart on campus. Whether you want to build connections, boost your resume, or simply make the most of your college experience, these tips can change the game.

We're covering what most students overlook but successful students prioritize. And trust me, this isn't about doing more, it's about doing what matters most.

Click the link below to get the College Accommodations Checklist.

College Accommodations Checklist Click Here

My Book

Self-Advocacy for Higher Education

What if I told you that failing is one of the most important skills your child can learn? I know, it sounds backwards. As a parent, especially of a child with learning disabilities,it’s painful to watch. But what if the real strength lies not in avoiding failure—but in how you handle it? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the psychology of resilience—what it really takes for your child to succeed by learning to fail well. Because the truth is: resilience isn’t built in success; it’s forged in struggle. If you listened to Ep 123, you know what I mean. And you're about to learn how to help your child succeed—not in spite of failure, but because of it.

Click the link below to get the College Accommodations Checklist.

College Accommodations Checklist Click Here

My Book

Self-Advocacy for Higher Education

Your student got accepted—now what? 🎓

In this episode of After the IEP, we break down the three most important steps to take after receiving college acceptance letters:

1. Apply early for disability accommodations – why waiting can cost you time and access.

2. Evaluate college support services – what to look for beyond academics, including writing centers, counseling, and more.

3. Make smart financial decisions – how finances can affect college success and why budgeting matters now more than ever.

You'll also learn how to use the free College Services Planner to compare schools, services, and requirements so your student is fully prepared—academically, emotionally, and financially.

Whether your student has a learning disability, ADHD, or a mental health condition, this episode will help your family make confident, informed decisions for the journey ahead.

🎧 Listen now and download the College Services Planner via the link below!

College Service Planner Free Download

The first semester is always challenging. One challenge that often gets missed is how to deal with academic challenges when they come up, and they will. This is particularly true when a student’s tried-and-true academic skills no longer meet the demands of higher education. I’ll tell you the college transition success story of one student I worked with, Sara. It's about a real student (name has been changed) and her inspiring journey to find success amidst adversity, learning valuable lessons about resilience, self-discovery, and trusting the process. This is her college transition success story.

Click the link below to get the college services planner mentioned in the episode.

College Services Planner Click Here

My Book

Self-Advocacy for Higher Education

Attending a recent high school choir event with my daughter, I noticed a shift—more students than ever are choosing to take a gap year before heading to college. While college often seems like the default next step, it’s not always the right choice for everyone immediately. The pressure to jump straight into higher education can be overwhelming, and for some students, taking time to explore their options, build life skills, and gain work experience can be incredibly beneficial.

A gap year can provide time for personal growth, financial savings, and career exploration. Yet, the stigma around it persists. Many students feel uneasy telling peers they’re taking a year off, fearing they’ll be seen as directionless. However, when approached with intention and structure, gap year planning can be simplified and one of the most valuable experiences of a young adult’s life.

If you or your child is considering a gap year, it’s important to plan it properly. Here’s how to simplify it and make the most of it.

Click the link below to get the college services planner mentioned in the episode.

College Services Planner Click Here

My Book

Self-Advocacy for Higher Education

Does College Choice Matter for Students with Learning Disabilities and ADHD?

Finding the right college for students with learning disabilities and ADHD is a critical step in setting them up for success. The college experience presents new challenges, but with the right support systems, students can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Does college choice matter? Yes, it does, but there is a lot of work that goes into it.

This guide will walk parents and students through the 6 key considerations and steps in selecting a college that meets the unique needs of students with learning disabilities and ADHD. By the end, you and your student will have a better answer to the question, 'Does college choice matter?'

Click the link below to get the college services planner mentioned in the episode.

College Services Planner Click Here

My Book

Self-Advocacy for Higher Education

What is self-advocacy? How does your student develop this skill? How can you teach it?

I'll review all this and a bit more in this episode.

Teaching self-advocacy is one of the most important steps in preparing students with learning disabilities or ADHD for success in college and beyond. Self-advocacy involves understanding one’s own needs, confidently expressing them, and seeking the necessary support or accommodations to succeed.

For students with learning disabilities, developing these skills isn’t just about academics—it’s about building lifelong confidence and independence. It all starts with self-awareness. In this episode/blog, we’ll explore practical strategies for teaching self-advocacy and fostering a sense of empowerment in students with learning disabilities.

Click the link below to get the college services planner mentioned in the episode.

College Services Planner Click Here

My Book

Self-Advocacy for Higher Education

Watching your child transition to college is both exciting and nerve-wracking. As a parent, you want to support their independence while staying informed about their well-being. Striking this balance can be challenging, especially for parents of students with learning disabilities, ADHD, or other unique needs.

This post provides actionable strategies for supporting independence in college students without overstepping boundaries, ensuring they thrive both academically and personally.

Click the link below to get the college services planner mentioned in the episode.

College Services Planner Click Here

For more informaiton, check out these episodes!

5 Easy Steps Your Student Needs To Know For Self-Advocacy

An Important Truth. You Need To Let Them Fail.

Four Steps to Get Disability Accommodations for College Students.