Office for Disability and Access
ASCEND Services
Academic Strategies for College Engagement, Navigation, & Development
ASCEND is a semester-long, one-on-one service designed for students registered with the ODA who would benefit from ongoing academic strategy support.
ASCEND focuses on helping students develop personalized systems and strategies that address the ways disability may impact learning. Sessions are collaborative, individualized, and centered on building skills that support long-term success.
What can we work on?
Students can receive support with topics such as:
- Self-Advocacy
- Communicating with professors
- Understanding accommodations
- Navigating the "hidden curriculum" of college
- Transitioning to college
- Preparing for exams and major projects
- Balancing academic responsibilities
- Time management
- Planning and organization
- Task initiation
- Prioritization
- Building sustainable routines
- Breaking down large assignments
- Study strategies
ASCEND may be a good fit if you:
- Often feel overwhelmed by multiple deadlines
- Have difficulty getting started on assignments
- Want to improve organization or time management
- Would benefit from regular accountability
- Are adjusting to college or returning after time away
- Are looking for individualized support beyond accommodations
What does participation look like?
Students participating in ASCEND can expect to:
- Meet individually with the ASCEND facilitator
- Participate in weekly, 45-minute sessions throughout the semester
- Develop personalized academic strategies
- Set goals and track progress
- Build routines and skills that support long-term success
Because ASCEND is designed to provide consistent support, students commit to participating throughout the semester.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ASCEND tutoring?
No. ASCEND is not tutoring. Rather than focusing on course content, ASCEND helps students develop academic strategies, executive functioning skills, and individualized systems that support success in college.
Is ASCEND the same as Executive Functioning Tutoring?
No. ODA's Executive Functioning Peer Tutoring is a peer-based program that focuses on accountability and skill practice, facilitated by fellow Oberlin College students. ASCEND is facilitated by an ODA staff member and provides individualized, disability-informed academic strategy support.
How often do students meet?
Students meet once a week for 45-minutes during the semester. We will find a recurring day and time that fits your schedule, and sessions will continue throughout the semester, excluding college breaks and other periods when classes are not in session.
Is there a cost?
No. ASCEND is available at no additional cost to students registered with ODA.
Who is eligible?
ASCEND is available to students with disabilities registered with the Office for Disability & Access. Participation is based on student interest, individual needs, and program capacity.