The word “disability” makes it seem that there is something wrong with us. People with disabilities did not choose their disorder or illness, so students with disabilities have to push themselves very hard to reach the same height as their peers. And we can get there. We are able to get there.

Stephen Hawking battled with ALS and still had time to discover black holes and universe discoveries. Albert Einstein was a late talker who struggled in traditional school settings, but he let his work speak for itself. Stevie Wonder became blind shortly after birth, and he is a legendary pianist with no problem finding the keys. Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter with polio; she had physical disorders, yes her hands could shape an entire era of Mexican culture and history, and we all know Helen Keller, this strong woman who flew a plane deaf and blind while being an author to her own literary work. She was real, guys.

With that being said, being disabled does not mean not being able to thrive, and accommodations give you protection and rights that allow you to achieve the same goals as your peers, but in the safest and most healthy way possible.

Georgia Southern’s Student Accessibility Resource Center (SARC) is launching a new database in summer ‘26. This new system, AIM (Accessible Information Management), will provide a user-friendly portal where students can submit exam requests‌, manage letters, and schedule appointments. This new system aims to improve efficiency for students with disabilities, faculty, and staff in coordinating accessibility services. 

For all students who are in their last years and just now have an easier navigation for getting the accommodations they need. I understand it can stir emotions when you see improvements that would have been great during your early years of university, but remember that these improvements are us upperclassmen too! You can always find the SARC Application for Services on the SARC page of the Georgia Southern website; click SARC here to find it!

To my fellow disa-baddies, disa-bros, and disa-friends, I implore you to take the time to step back and ask for help when you need it! I mean. It’s free!