Before Your Access Meeting

Your meeting with Access is a relaxed conversation with the Access coordinator. The goal is to understand how you learn and identify supports that can help you succeed at RCC. 

Before Your Meeting

It may help to think about:

  • What makes school or learning challenging — in class or outside of class? 
  • What helps you learn (such as extra time, notes, a quiet space or reminders)? 
  • If memory or anxiety makes conversation difficult during an intake, you can bring notes or write things down if it is helpful.  

Examples:

  • I understand lectures better when I can review notes later. 
  • Timed exams increase my anxiety and make it harder to focus.
  • I need structure and reminders to stay on track.

What to bring

You do not need documentation to meet with Access.

Documentation can help explain how a disability or condition affects learning, but it is not required to begin services.

If available, you may bring:

  • Medical, psychological or educational documentation. 
  • An IEP, 504 Plan or previous accommodation letters. 
  • Your personal experiences — this is the most important information. 
  • If documentation is needed, the Access Office will explain next steps.

Can I bring someone with me?

You may bring a family member, friend or support person to your meeting. They can help take notes, provide reminders or offer support. You remain the focus of the meeting.

What Happens During the Meeting

During the meeting, you may:

  • Talk about how your disability or condition impacts your classes. 
  • Review documentation, if available. 
  • Discuss possible accommodations.

You can also ask for:

  • Breaks. 
  • Clarification. 
  • Information in writing.

The meeting is designed to help you understand available supports and identify options that can help you move forward in your program at RCC.

After Your Intake

Once you’ve completed your intake with the Access coordinator: 

  • Your accommodations are finalized.  
  • Your Faculty Notification (FNL) is emailed to your student email and your instructors.  
  • Check that instructors received your Faculty Notification Letter (FNL).  
  • You begin using your approved accommodations in your classes. 

If something is not working, please follow up with the Access Office. 

Helpful Reminders

  • Accommodations provide access to college courses, not an advantage.  
  • You do not need to disclose personal or disability information to instructors.  
  • You are allowed to ask questions and adjust supports.  
  • You are not alone in this process.