By Lola Rodríguez-Poyo Martín
In the busy halls of CIS University, an overlooked but vital program quietly transforms the lives of students with special needs. The Special Needs Program at CIS University has been gaining recognition for its ability to empower students facing diverse challenges, offering them customized support to face difficulties and shine academically.
Many people in the CIS University community are not aware that there is an area dedicated to helping students who have a variety of special needs due to many different personal circumstances. Over the years, CIS University has worked with these students and their professors to help them find a way to work with the different obstacles the students might have to become academically successful.
“Special accommodations is something very common in the US system of education. In the beginning we only had isolated students who had different needs, but over the years it has become something much more common and accepted in the Spanish educational system as well. With the growth in numbers of students with special needs, we saw the opportunity to create an area to work with the students individually and with their professors to be academically successful,” explained Mary McCarthy, the Dean of student affairs and Special Needs program’s advisor.
Sandra Torres: A Beneficiary’s Perspective
Sandra Torres, a student at CIS University who is a beneficiary of the Special Needs Program, remarked the university’s considerate approach to individual needs and its commitment to inclusivity: “I think the university is very flexible about adapting to the students and providing the needed support for everyone with their own situations,” said Sandra.
Sandra’s journey with this program began early in her university life. “I actually asked about it when I first joined the university,” she explained. Her need for specific accommodations for exams was a priority, and she did not hesitate to discuss it when she arrived at CIS University.
Over time, Sandra noticed substantial improvements in her academic life. “At the beginning, I needed a lot more time with exams,” she admitted. The program’s support allowed her to have extra time, a resource she no longer needs due to her enhanced skills and confidence.
When asked why she decided to join the program, Sandra emphasized the importance of exam accommodations. “I just wanted more time because if I rushed, I knew I wouldn’t get the same result as if I had extra time.” She consulted her doctor, provided the necessary certificates, and found the assistance she needed at CIS University.
“I would definitely encourage any students who require this assistance to apply for it,” she stated. Sandra believes that students who require special accommodations, like separate exam settings or extra time, will undoubtedly stand out with the program’s support. She also emphasized the fact that CIS University respects students’ privacy, allowing them to keep their accommodations confidential.
Mary McCarthy: The Program’s Backbone
Mary McCarthy, the Dean of Students and Programs Advisor, plays an essential role in ensuring the success of CIS University’s Special Needs Program. She provides essential insights into the program’s foundation and operation. McCarthy described the program as a response to the diverse needs of students who require various accommodations, including extra exam time and separate exam locations. She emphasized that it serves students with a wide range of conditions, from common learning differences to more extreme cases like physical impairments.
CIS University’s approach to supporting students with special needs is adjusted to individual circumstances. The Dean of Students explained that the university collaborates with professors to create appropriate accommodations for students, which may include adjusting exam formats or providing extra time.
The program’s impact is extensive: more than a quarter of the student body benefits from its resources each semester. This highlights the university’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring equal opportunities for all students.
“Enrolling in the Special Needs Program is straightforward,” indicated McCarthy. Students need only reach out to her and explain their special challenges and accommodation requirements. A specialist evaluates their needs and provides confidential documentation, allowing the Special Needs Programs advisor to work closely with professors to ensure students receive the necessary support.
A model for inclusivity
The program generally succeeds in its mission. While some cases may present special challenges, the university remains committed to working closely with students and professors to create an environment where all students can thrive.
CIS University’s Special Needs Program stands as a model for inclusivity and support in higher education. The program’s dedication to empowering students with diverse needs ensures that they have the resources and accommodations necessary to excel academically, setting them on a path toward a bright and successful future.
