DREAM promotes self-advocacy

Many students have a hard time getting through a school day filled with exams, term papers, presentations and homework. But for some, it's even more difficult because they suffer from a disability. These students, however, are getting the help they need through Gonzaga's DREAM program.

Gonzaga's Disability Resources, Education and Access Management Program has been helping students with disabilities manage their education since the 1970s. DREAM was established on the legal framework of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Washington Law Against Discrimination, as well as Gonzaga University's Mission and Policy.

DREAM serves people with all types of disabilities, including vision or hearing impairment, learning disabilities and attention deficit disorder. In addition, it  serves people with disabilities that may not seem to affect a person's learning ability such as diabetes, depression, anxiety and arthritis. They also help those with temporary conditions, such as broken bones or post-concussion symptoms.

With all of these disabilities accounted for, students are able to go through the school year with a little less stress. For qualifying students, DREAM offers multiple services to accommodate their needs. The services vary depending on the student's condition. For example, if a student has test anxiety, a quiet, distraction-free room is used, as well as a non-timed environment. Priority scheduling is given to those students who need a specified break for medication or scheduled meals.

According to Kathy Shearer, the director of Gonzaga's DREAM program, the university has always been supportive of the program's goals. Everyone from the board of trustees to the president to the Student Life office has helped accommodate the needs of those involved.

Student Life is especially involved in the support of the DREAM program. Jill Yashinksy, a case manager for Student Life, said that the two programs partner to assist students to the highest degree.

"I truly believe this partnership is one that helps students become more self-aware, and promotes the development of self-advocacy skills that will help students in every area of their lives," Yashinksy said.

DREAM is a federally funded program that exists at other schools under different names. Gonzaga's program works with roughly 400 students and, since taking on employee accommodations last year, 57 employees.

In addition to working with employees with disabilities, DREAM also educates faculty members on how to accommodate student needs.

"We can't be everywhere, so we depend on our faculty to assist in implementing accommodations in the classroom and our Student Life partners in making all out of classroom experiences accessible," Shearer said.

According to Shearer, one example of students involved in the program is those with a disability that interferes with the ability to read in a traditional way. These students are given access to textbooks that help them, perhaps in an audio format, as well as extended time while taking exams, ensuring that they are evaluated on an even level with their peers.

Not everyone on campus with a disability uses DREAM though. Shearer said some students are hesitant to come to the office because they aren't sure what help they need.

"Disabilities can be overwhelming, especially when college is overwhelming all by itself at times," Shearer said.

According to Shearer, once students sit down with a professional, the most common reaction is relief. Participants in the DREAM program also learn more about themselves and what they need to do to accomplish their own goals.

Shearer said that she is excited for the future of the program.

"Technology, both for assistance and treatment, is changing every day. Part of our job is to stay current in the field, so we can pass on greater opportunities and choices to the students and employees we serve."