Thanks for the advice, guys.  I just found out that the university has a
graduate program in PT/OT, which seems like it would be a good solution.
This university has a great DSS department.  I met with the woman in charge,
and she was extremely helpful.  Unfortunately, she won't give me their list
of PA resources until I commit to the university.  I'd like to have it
straightened out before I commit, as that would be a major factor in my
decision.  They have great provisions for extended time and computer access
during tests, the entire campus is curb cut, flat, and thoroughly
accessible, and they even have accessible dorm bathrooms.  I've talked to a
few people in wheelchairs who go there, and they're very satisfied, so I'm
excited.  For anyone interested, it's George Washington University, in DC.
I like it so much, I'm thinking of applying early decision.

~Joy~

----- Original Message -----
From: "Yvonne Craig" <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2000 12:33 PM
Subject: Re: Personal Care Assistants


Joy

At one of our local Universities with an excellent accessibility track
record, the University hires the PAs and they are assigned to disabled
students based on the students' wishes (ie. age, gender) as much as
possible. I would definitely contact the school to see if they already have
such a programme.

Just curious (and you don't have to answer), what sort of facilities are
available on campus for PWD? Did you choose a school for any particular
reason? Was accessibility a factor in your choice?

Yvonne

>>> [log in to unmask] 08/30/00 04:16AM >>>
How do you guys go about finding people to help you with personal care?
I'll be going to college next fall, and will need someone to help me.  I
don't need constant care, just someone to stop by in the morning and evening
for an hour max each time.  I've never had a PA before... my parents
basically filled that position ; )  I have no clue where to start looking.
I did a web search, but could only find aides that deal with the elderly.
The colleges I'm looking at all suggest hiring other students.  I'd rather
have someone older help me... I feel like having someone my own age would be
awkward, since we would have classes together and share friends.  I'd
appreciate information on your experiences and the best way to go about
this.

~Joy~