Last week, we kicked off our College Success Series with Understanding Your Rights: College Accommodations for Narcolepsy and Idiopathic Hypersomnia, where we explored how accommodations differ between high school and college, how to connect with Disability Services, and examples of accommodations students may request.

Missed Part 1? You can read it HERE.

This week, we’re focusing on life beyond the classroom. While academic accommodations are an important part of college success, managing narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) also means developing routines and strategies that support your health and well-being throughout your college experience.

Build a Schedule That Works for You

If possible, choose class times that match when you’re typically most alert. Avoid scheduling early morning or late evening classes if those are especially difficult times for you.

Many colleges offer priority registration as an accommodation, allowing students to build a schedule that better supports their health needs.

Make Time for Rest

A planned nap can be one of the most effective tools for managing excessive daytime sleepiness.

Look for quiet spaces on campus, such as a student lounge, library, wellness center, or your residence hall, where you can recharge between classes. Even a short nap may help improve alertness for the rest of your day.

Stay Organized

College comes with a busy schedule of classes, assignments, exams, medications, and appointments. Using a planner, calendar app, or reminder system can help you stay on track.

Breaking larger assignments into smaller tasks can also make them feel less overwhelming.

Think About Your Living Environment

Your residence hall can have a significant impact on your sleep.

If you qualify for housing accommodations, you may be able to request:

• A quieter residence hall or room

• A single room, when medically appropriate

• A room closer to classrooms

• A roommate who understands your sleep schedule

Creating a supportive living environment can make managing your symptoms easier.

Communicate Early

Once accommodations are approved, don’t wait until challenges arise to introduce yourself to your professors.

Meeting with them early in the semester can help establish expectations and make it easier to work together if symptoms affect your coursework later on.

Take Care of Yourself

College life can make it tempting to stay up late, skip meals, or overcommit your schedule, but maintaining healthy routines is one of the best ways to support symptom management.

Remember to:

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule whenever possible.

• Take medications as prescribed.

• Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals.

• Schedule time to rest and recharge.

• Reach out for support when you need it.

Taking care of yourself isn’t falling behind—it’s helping you stay on track.

You’re Not Alone

Adjusting to college while managing narcolepsy or IH takes planning, flexibility, and self-advocacy, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Your healthcare team, Disability Services office, family, friends, and campus resources can all help support your success.

Every student’s journey is different, and finding the routines and supports that work best for you can help make college both successful and rewarding.