Frustration....grrrrr...

[DebbiK]

Ok I just have to vent! Its hard enough living with this disorder however how do I make people realize that just because I look healthy things can change overnight! I'm currently in school working on my Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology. This past January within 2 days I developed bronchitis and a sinus infection while attending class for a week in Minneapolis. My whole class knew how sick I got and it took 2 months to finally get over it. Now because I was so sick and got behind in class I failed one of my classes. They only allow Incomplete on assignments but because I wasn't able to keep up with them until the end of class they would not grant an incomplete hence I failed. My biggest frustration is now they school has denied me my financial aid and told me I have to get a cosigner for a student loan as a few years ago my hubby had a stroke and we got behind on things. I'm so close to being done with the classroom part of it and they can't seem to understand that I didn't ask for this disorder nor did I sign up for the illnesses and flare ups that come out of the blue. Now the demand for a cosigner isn't helping as I don't have anyone and don't know who to turn to. I've got disability accommodations at school however I sometimes get the feeling that they don't believe that this is a true disorder and can become progressively worse. Thanks for letting me vent as I am truly frustrated.

DebbiK

[jonnell]

DebbiK,   I am so sorry to hear you are having such a hard time.  I dont know how things are in your state, but I would think they could make a acception because you have a disability.  I know some people have went on disability because of the disorder, maybe they could make a acception for you.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.

[Victoria05202000]

The politics of it all is maddening. Sorry, you are having a difficult time.  I hope everything works out for you. Hang in there!
Take Care!
Vicky

[Scottietottie]

Hi Debbi 

I don't know what to say because I'm not sure how your system works. Do you have a student union - or can you take an appeal further up the line somewhere? Write to you senator, a newspaper, anything to try and get some action.

Take care - Scottie 

[Chickpea]

Hi Debbi

I don't know exactly how the system works at your college but at universities where I've worked in the UK and abroad there are always systems in place for students who are unwell. 

They usually use the term 'mitigating circumstances' which covers health, social and personal issues which make it more difficult or impossible for a student to complete an assignment or do an exam.  Or to do it to the best of their ability.  At exam boards which consider students' grades the tutors always include the details of the mitigating circumstances, in strictest confidence.  Maybe you need to speak to someone senior as this affects not only your qualification but also your financial status.  Explain that they really are piling on the stress for you which is going to make it even harder for you to succeed. 

A couple more thoughts: 

- all universities and colleges are duty bound to support their students, but particularly students who need extra support.  There are always special funds set aside to put this support into action.  You just need to know who holds the purse strings!
- get all the documentation ready to back up your case:  doctors' letters; details of work you've done and grades achieved, as well as unfinished assignments; even an outline symptom diary.  Plus financial details.  You could also include a personal statement about the importance of the qualification in your life's plans.  Tug at their heart strings!

It's in your college's interest for you to complete your course, mostly because that's their raison d'etre but also because statistics of student retention are part of their public profile.

Hope you get this sorted out soon.

Thinking of you - Chickpea