What should I do?
I have found that it is always better to focus on the positive when talking to students. If you are positive and find good things to say, they will open up and give you information that you won't have to ask for. As a matter of fact, the will give you information, you don't want to know about.....
Cristobal,
That is certainly the best way to go. You want to make sure that the student feels you are responsive, but still get them the specialized assistance you may not be in a position to give.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
Dr. Jarrow,
When I hear more than I expected I try to aknowledge that I heard the statements but want to get to the reason a person wants to attend college etc.
Lydia,
That's always a concern -- that as a sympathetic listener you will hear more than you bargained for. Of course, that is not a situation that is unique to students with disabilities. And it can be handled the same way it is for others... keeping the student's confidence, using that information that is appropriate for you to use, and letting the rest go.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
