My Wright State Journey

Finding the right college for students with disabilities can be a challenge. When I began my college search, I quickly realized that none of the colleges in Michigan had the disability accommodations I needed. As a student with cerebral palsy, accessibility was my top priority. That’s when my doctor recommended Wright State University, known for its disability-friendly campus and support services.

After visiting Wright State in the summer of 2019, I saw firsthand how the campus infrastructure was designed to be accessible. The underground tunnel system made it easier for students with mobility impairments to navigate, and the Office of Disability Services (ODS) provided the best student disability resources I had encountered.

One of the biggest deciding factors was the Personal Assistance (PA) Station, which provided assistance with bathroom needs and other physical support services. This level of accessibility support reassured me that Wright State was the right fit for my college experience.

Starting College During a Pandemic

I officially enrolled at Wright State University in Fall 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I spent my freshman year and the first semester of sophomore year at home, taking online classes. Like many students, I missed out on the traditional campus life experience. However, I stayed focused on my marketing degree, determined to make the most of my situation.

Finally Experiencing Campus Life

In January 2022, I was finally able to move to campus and experience college in person. Wright State University provided personal assistants (PAs) to help with daily tasks. While not every PA was the right fit, most became reliable support systems throughout my college journey.

With disability accommodations in place, I was able to focus on my education, social life, and professional development. The PA Station continued to assist with physical needs, ensuring that I had full access to campus resources and could navigate daily life with confidence.

Becoming a Leader in Disability Advocacy

A major highlight of my college journey was joining Abilities, a student-led disability awareness organization dedicated to inclusion and advocacy. Through Abilities, I met other students who shared similar experiences and a passion for disability rights.

In Fall 2024, I took on a leadership role as Secretary of Abilities, a position I still hold today. As Abilities Secretary, I managed social media marketing, using my marketing background to promote disability awareness and engage students. This role allowed me to combine my marketing skills with my passion for disability advocacy, making a significant impact on Wright State’s campus community.

Building Friendships and Gaining Independence

As I progressed through college, my friends naturally became part of my support system. While PAs helped with essential tasks, my friends stepped in to assist with other day-to-day activities, making my campus life experience more inclusive and enjoyable.

Wright State’s commitment to student success, accessibility services, and disability inclusion provided the foundation for me to grow both academically and personally. The faculty members were supportive, the disability services office was always available, and my friends made every challenge easier to navigate.

Memorable College Experiences and Graduation

Beyond academics, some of my best memories at Wright State came from social events, student organization activities, and disability awareness initiatives. The friendships I built and the experiences I gained helped shape me into the person I am today.

In December 2024, I graduated with a BS in Marketing, marking the completion of an incredible journey. My time at Wright State University taught me the importance of perseverance, community support, and self-advocacy.

Looking Ahead

As I move forward in my career, I will always carry the lessons I learned at Wright State University. For students looking for a college with strong disability accommodations, personal assistance services, and a welcoming community, Wright State is an excellent choice.

For anyone searching for a disability-friendly college experience, my advice is to find a university that offers the support, accessibility, and community you need to thrive. For me, that place was Wright State University, and I am forever grateful for the journey that led me here.