Farmingdale Disability Services Center supports students as finals and new semesters approach

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By: Ayla Kugler

FARMINGDALE, NY - As final exams approach and course registration for the upcoming semesters gets underway, some Farmingdale State College students may be struggling and facing academic challenges due to a disability or health condition, without realizing that support is available through the Disability Services Center (DSC@farmingdale.edu) on campus. The DSC provides services designed to support students with documented disabilities or medical conditions.

While some may associate these types of accommodations with physical and learning disabilities, the DSC, located in room 186D of Whitman Hall, also works with students with mental health challenges or other chronic medical conditions. These can all be challenges that worsen and become harder to manage during high-pressure times, such as finals or a new semester.

Services offered through the DSC are designed to reduce academic barriers and provide students with equal access to coursework. Accommodations may include extended testing time, separate testing locations, or flexible attendance options. The specific accommodation depends on each student's individual needs.

Students who previously had an Individualized Education Program, 504 Plan, used resource rooms, or received testing accommodations, may qualify to receive accommodations at Farmingdale. However, students who have not previously received accommodations are still eligible if they experience difficulties related to a disability or medical condition that impacts their academic performance.

To receive accommodations, students must go through a registration process. The process typically includes submitting documentation of the disability and meeting with a DSC counselor to discuss the appropriate support and accommodations.

Documentation guidelines vary based on the condition and can be found on the DSC website. Documentation typically includes clinical evidence of a diagnosis or impairment, such as a medical summary or assessment from a doctor. Students may also be asked to include information about the current treatment plan for their diagnosis or challenge.

According to DSC senior counselor, Anthony Manansingh, students should not feel hesitant about seeking assistance. “There’s nothing to be scared of,” he said. “We walk everyone step-by-step through the entire process.” He added that the DSC offers students both in-person and virtual meetings to increase accessibility for students.

While students can contact the DSC and receive accommodations at any point in the semester, accommodations are not retroactive and cannot be applied to past assignments or exams, making timing an important factor. As final exams approach, students with documented disabilities who may need support are encouraged to explore the available resources at the Disability Services Center.