LAUSR

Communication is the key to success in practically every situation. Without communicating to your counterpart, how should they understand your own situation? When it comes to studying with a chronic illness we need to know how the illness affects our ability. We need to communicate what we are able to do and where we need support. When I started my Master Degree I have been honest from the very beginning. I never kept my rheumatic disease and the disability that comes with it a secret. Being open from the very beginning gives yourself and your university, school or even workspace the opportunity to adapt to your abilities. Hiding your disability will make it hard for yourself to keep up with your class. Your fellow students and teachers not knowing what your limitations are will most certainly lead to misunderstandings. Many pupils and students do not know that there are laws and regulations that could help them to get through school easier. For example you are allowed to have longer writing times in exams, or use your computer for typing texts instead of having to write by hand. This helps to prevent pain in your joints. There are even more ways in which your university or school can help you to get through your day than you would think of in the first place. Without asking for help, you will never find out what is actually possible. Through communicating with a disability-spokesperson you will most likely get even greater support. In my lecture I will talk about my own story and how I managed to finish my Bachelor Degree whilst falling chronically ill with Adult Onset Still’s Disease. I will give examples on how to handle a life with chronic illness. There will be some tips on what to do when your counterpart is not as understanding as he or she should be. I will explain what I do to get me through lectures and exams. Disclosure of Interest None declared