As the start of college approaches, students are busy getting ready for life on campus. For those with hearing loss, preparing for college involves additional steps to ensure a smooth transition into academic and social environments. Let’s take a look at a few tips to navigate college with hearing loss.
Use Your Hearing Aids
If you wear hearing aids, they will be your best ally in the classroom and during extracurricular activities. Advanced features like directional microphones, Bluetooth® and noise reduction can help you focus on the speaker’s voice, promoting clear communication in class, social activities and beyond.
Connect With Campus Services
Before the semester kicks off, one of the most important steps is connecting with your school’s disability services office. Most colleges and universities offer accommodations tailored to students with hearing loss, and reaching out early can ensure you’re set up for success. Common resources include real-time captioning services, sign language interpreters and assistive listening devices for lectures and events.
Every school varies in what they offer, so exploring all options and determining which services most benefit your learning needs is important.
Have an Open Conversation With Your Professors
Take the initiative to introduce yourself to your professors before classes begin. Explain your hearing needs and any accommodations you may be using. This communication sets the tone for a supportive classroom environment. You might request the following accommodations:
- Minimized background noise in smaller classes or group discussions
- Professors face the class while speaking to ensure clear communication
- Lecture materials in advance, such as slides, notes or transcripts
A proactive conversation with your instructors ensures they know how to help you succeed in their course.
Build a Social Network
While hearing loss can make social situations more challenging, don’t let it prevent you from forming meaningful connections with your peers. College is a time for building friendships, joining study groups and attending social events. By adopting a few communication strategies, you can make the most of these experiences:
- Let new friends know about your hearing loss—they’ll likely appreciate knowing how to best communicate with you in noisy environments
- Stand face-to-face when talking to others
- Minimize background noise by choosing quieter locations like Cup O’ Joy or peaceful parks for hangouts
Enjoy College to the Fullest
Hearing loss doesn’t need to limit your college experience. Remember that approximately 12.5% of people aged 12 and older in the U.S. have hearing loss in both ears, so you are not alone in managing these challenges.
Prepare yourself for an incredible college experience by contacting Ear, Nose & Throat Consultants today to explore hearing treatment options and ensure you’re ready for the journey ahead.