Learning Disabilities and ADHD/ADD

Learning Disabilities (LDs) are neurological processing disorders that affect individuals' basic learning skills, such as reading, writing, and/or math. They can also affect skills such as time management, organization, memory, and attention. LDs vary from person to person and can vary greatly in severity. Examples of LDs include:

  • Dyslexia: difficulty in reading
  • Dyscalculia: difficulty in math
  • Dysgraphia: difficulty in written expression


Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) are diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as concentrating or performing essential job functions.

The most common symptoms include:

  • Distractibility (poor sustained attention to tasks)
  • Impulsivity (impaired impulse control and delay of gratification)
  • Hyperactivity (excessive activity and physical restlessness)

Exact nature and impact of ADHD symptoms varies from person to person. ADHD is broken down into three presentations: Combined, Predominantly Inattentive, and Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive.

Kelsey Foote

Ability Access Specialist: Learning Disabilities, ADHD

Contact Kelsey Foote

(517) 884-1902

Schedule an appointment

Virginia Rutan

Ability Access Specialist: Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Student-Athlete Liaison

Contact Virginia Rutan

(517) 884-1908

Schedule an appointment

Ellie Brigger

Ability Access Specialist: Neurodivergence (psychiatric/mental health, learning disabilities, & ADHD)

Contact Ellie Brigger

517-884-1907

Schedule an appointment

Madison Overbey

Ability Access Specialist: Neurodivergence (psychiatric/mental health, learning disabilities, & ADHD)

Contact Madison Overbey

517-884-1916

Schedule an appointment

Helpful Links

Resources

 

Building Community

A Note on Documentation - Online Fee for Diagnosis

There are numerous online entities that offer diagnoses in exchange for a fee. These predatory companies often operate completely on a self-report surveys and the “patient” does not have direct contact with a licensed clinician/evaluator. We’re seeing this most often with ADHD diagnoses. We cannot accept this kind of documentation and will support students to retrieve additional documents to complete their registration. We want to make sure our students are protected; if you have questions about an online diagnosis service, please feel free to reach out to an ADHD or Neurodivergent specialist (listed below)!

Frequently Asked Questions

Will RCPD inform my professors about my accommodations?

Once registration steps are completed with the RCPD, the student receives an accommodation letter. Students are responsible for presenting this letter to each professor at the start of the semester during office hours. It is important to go over the letter to coordinate accommodations.

What accommodations will I receive for my disability?

Each person and setting is unique and needs will vary. Accommodations are determined during a confidential needs assessment with an Ability Access Specialist.

How does MSU facilitate note taking services?

Students work with their Ability Access Specialist to identify an individualized solution. Solutions often include: technology assisting independent note taking, shared notes with a peer, or other approaches. Visit our Note Taking Assistance guidelines for an overview of possibilities.

Will I receive the same accommodations that I got in high school?

Upon registering with RCPD, you will talk to an Ability Access Specialist about the appropriate accommodations for your disability during an individualized needs assessment. While RCPD takes historical accommodations into consideration, the college environment has different demands that may shape essential functions and accommodations. Visit our Future Students page for information about coming to Michigan State University.

I'm having trouble in my class, where can I find tutoring?

First, talk to your professor during office hours for ideas on how to succeed in the class. The Neighborhood Student Success Collaborative (NSSC) also offers a variety of resources and supports.

What if I disagree with the disability determination or level of accommodation I receive?

RCPD Specialists are committed to an active partnership with students and employees who make reasonable accommodation requests through our office. In the case you experience a disagreement regarding disability determination or appropriateness of accommodations, you may consider taking the steps outlined in our dispute resolution process.

What campus organizations focus on disability issues? 

Several organizations on campus exist including:

To learn more about CSD, Tower Guard, and the Adaptive Sports & Recreation Club, please visit Department of Student Life's Registered Student Organizations or contact your RCPD Ability Access Specialist.