Starting college often means learning how to speak up for yourself in ways you may not have needed to before. While Disability Services can help arrange official accommodations, professors are the people you’ll interact with every week—and building positive relationships with them can make a meaningful difference in your college experience.

If you have narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia (IH), advocating for yourself doesn’t mean sharing every detail about your health. It means communicating your needs, using your accommodations effectively, and working together to set yourself up for success.

Start the Conversation Early

One of the best things you can do is introduce yourself to your professors during the first week of classes—or even before the semester begins.

A simple email or brief conversation during office hours can help establish communication before any challenges arise.

You might say:

“Hi Professor Smith. I wanted to introduce myself because I have accommodations through Disability Services for a medical condition. I wanted to let you know I’ll be working with those accommodations this semester and appreciate your support.”

This lets your professor know you’re proactive and committed to your success.

Understand That Professors May Not Know About Narcolepsy or IH

Many professors have never worked with a student who has narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia. Others may have misconceptions based on what they’ve seen in movies or television.

You don’t need to become an expert educator, but offering a brief explanation can help.

For example:

“Narcolepsy is a neurological sleep disorder that affects my ability to regulate sleep and wakefulness. Even when I get enough sleep, I can still experience excessive daytime sleepiness.”

Keeping your explanation simple and focused helps your professor understand why accommodations are important.

Use Office Hours

Office hours aren’t just for students who are struggling—they’re a great opportunity to build relationships.

Meeting with your professor early allows you to:

• Ask questions about assignments
• Clarify expectations
• Discuss how accommodations may work in the class
• Show that you’re engaged and invested in learning

Professors are often more understanding when they’ve had the chance to get to know you.

Speak Up Before Problems Become Emergencies

If you’re experiencing increased symptoms, medication adjustments, or other challenges that may affect coursework, communicate as early as possible.

Waiting until after you’ve missed multiple assignments or exams can make it harder to find solutions.

Instead, reach out with a message like:

“I’m experiencing some medical challenges this week that are affecting my symptoms. I’m working with Disability Services and wanted to let you know as soon as possible. I’d appreciate discussing the best way to stay on track.”

Most professors appreciate early communication.

Know Your Accommodations

Before talking with your professor, make sure you understand the accommodations you’ve been approved to receive.

These may include:

• Flexible attendance policies
• Extended testing time
• Breaks during exams
• Note-taking assistance
• Permission to record lectures
• Priority registration
• Flexible assignment deadlines (when appropriate)

Knowing exactly what your accommodations cover will help you advocate with confidence.

Keep Communication Professional

College communication is different from high school. Emails should be respectful, concise, and professional.

Include:

• Your full name
• The course name or number
• A brief explanation of why you’re reaching out
• What you’re requesting, if applicable
• A thank-you for their time

Keeping communication organized makes it easier for professors to respond and support you.

Remember: You’re Your Best Advocate

Learning to advocate for yourself takes practice, and it’s okay if it feels uncomfortable at first.

Speaking up isn’t asking for special treatment. You’re simply using the resources available to help you access your education on an equal footing.

The more comfortable you become communicating your needs, the more confident you’ll feel navigating college—and those self-advocacy skills will continue to benefit you long after graduation.

Coming Up Next

In the next installment of our College Success Series, we’ll explore Managing College Life Beyond Academics, including navigating social activities, campus involvement, sleep routines, and maintaining your health while enjoying the full college experience.