Introduction: Learning, living, giving, and engaging -- 1. The system is definitely not made for you -- 2. Identity -- 3. Turning deficits into character -- 4. The right college -- 5. No one is going to wake you up -- 6. You and the law -- 7. The college landscape -- 8. The right courses -- 9. The college classroom -- 10. Virtual learning -- 11. Knowing your resources -- 12. Assistive technology -- 13. Advocating for your needs -- 14. College life -- 15. How to engage -- 16. Get to work, literally -- 17. Paying for it all -- 18. You can do it

This book is the essential guide to college that provides practical information and strategies for the millions of diverse learners, nontraditional students, and people with disabilities who attend college every year. Through humor, stories, and frank advise, the book addresses everything an aspiring college student needs to know on their journey through college. The author provides an insider's perspective to overcoming the complex college system and the pragmatic skills needed to be successful. The book explores the concept of learning and how it relates to the unique college environment. It challenges students to focus on their strengths and embrace their differences. It unravels college for students and provides strategies for making the system work for them. It provides valuable tips, insights, and tactics for achieving success in all aspects of college. And it students to believe in their ability to be successful in college. The book was written for students who learn differently, have disabilities, or are overwhelmed by the prospects of a complex college landscape. Currently only twenty percent of diverse learners who start college actually graduate. This statistic can change with the right support and requisite knowledge.--