How best to address new ADHD diagnosis in "additional information" section

intparent
Mon, 24 Nov 2014 02:19:14 +0000

We didn’t disclose for D2. I think honestly that his performance to date is the performance they are going to judge on. I can’t see how disclosing is going to improve his chances for merit aid, especially since he has no upward trend to show since starting any med and/or accommodations. I know to you it seems like he will be a stronger student now, but without proof of that, what is a college to think of this revelation? If I were you, I would be paying attention to whether the supports he needs will be in place where he is applying. But I am not convinced that revealing his diagnosis will do any good in his admissions process. Just my 2 cents, others may have a different opinion.

I do agree with your “better late than never” statement, though. He should start using not just his meds, but any other accommodations recommended by his tester (eg, extra time on tests). He should get used to this (and maybe it can show him if it really helps improve his performance). He is the one who will probably have to work with the disabilities office in college and potentially communicate with his profs and TAs about any accommodations he is granted by the disabilities office. Better that he gets some practice and sees the value in them this year before going off to college. Some kids with late diagnosis are very reluctant to ask for accommodations that they are due because of their disability, which is immensely frustrating to watch for parents.