ACADEMIC SUPPORT SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES AND AD/HD



The Altshuler Learning Enhancement Center's Learning and Attention Disorders Counselors provide academic assistance for SMU undergraduates with documented learning disabilities or AD/HD, in addition to the academic support provided to all SMU undergraduates by the A-LEC.

Assistance is available in the following areas:

  • Learning Strategies Instruction: using strategies to maximize the value of academic strengths and minimize the impact of academic weaknesses;

  • Coaching: helping students achieve short-term and long-term academic goals;

  • Self-Advocacy/Awareness: facilitating the development of self-esteem and self-confidence through skill building, role playing, and understanding of legal rights;

  • Education: helping students understand their diagnosis and how it impacts their college experience;

  • Transitioning: identifying and addressing differences between high school and college and their impact on students with learning disabilities;

  • Educational Planning: assisting students in choosing courses, class schedules, and majors that consider the impact of the documented disability;

  • ORACLE: a course in advanced reading and learning strategies tailored specifically for LD and AD/HD students;

  • Tutoring: making the best use of the A-LEC's subject-specific tutoring program;

  • Mentoring: pairing upper-class with first-year students to provide peer support and guidance.



To Schedule an Appointment:

Current or prospective undergraduates may obtain more information or schedule an appointment with a LeAD Counselor. Contact Alexa Taylor at 214.768.1918 or at alexat@mail.smu.edu.


To Prepare for Your Appointment:

In order to provide you with the most effective services, the LeAD Counselors ask that you bring the following materials to your initial session:

  • The documentation of your learning difference — this allows the LeAD Counselors to tailor services specifically to your learning profile;

  • Your SMU course schedule;

  • Your SMU course syllabi;

  • A list of any ongoing commitments you may have that impact your schedule (i.e. jobs, organizations, sports, etc.); and

  • Your calendar/planner (if you currently use one).
Documentation may be personally delivered to 202D Loyd Center, faxed to 214.768.3800, or mailed to:

Alexa Taylor
Learning and Attention Disorders
Altshuler Learning Enhancement Center
SMU Box 201
Dallas, TX 75275-0201