Hey! My name is Gabby, I’m a 3rd-year student studying for a BA in Philosophy, Religion, and Ethics here at Kent, and I live in an adapted room in Keynes Flats. I have cerebral palsy and am a full-time electric wheelchair user, living with 24/7 support from PAs to enable my independence.
Excitement and Nerves: Preparing for University
I can remember how excited I was at the thought of moving to university. I was eager to start a course I was passionate about, meet new friends, try new things, and, most importantly, experience living on my own for the first time. However, I was also extremely nervous. My parents had always been my primary carers, and I had never done anything on my own before—not even gone for a sleepover!
It’s absolutely fine to feel a mix of excitement and nerves, especially when extra needs can make things a little more complicated. In my experience, my extra needs just meant I had to be extra organised and start planning ahead. The sooner I got the ball rolling, the more reassured I was that everything would go smoothly on move-in day.
Finding the Right Accommodation
When it was time to enrol for accommodation along with other first-year students, I made sure to fill in my application, including ticking the option to indicate that I had extra needs. This is really important, as it allows the accommodation team to find a room that suits your specific requirements.
For me, my extra needs meant I required:
- A connecting room for my PA
- A larger room to accommodate my wheelchair and medical equipment
- An ensuite bathroom
- A wet room
- A wash-and-dry toilet
Since my needs were extensive, my family and I were invited to view a few accessible rooms and discuss the best fit. This was a really lovely experience—not only did I feel listened to, but I also got a glimpse of what university life might look like.
After viewing a room in Tyler Court and one in Keynes Flats, I opted for Keynes as I preferred the layout and its central location on campus (right near the Co-op and the nightclub—a definite bonus!). While a room tour isn’t guaranteed, it really put my mind at ease. If you think a visit might help you, I highly recommend reaching out to the accommodation team!
Moving In: Planning Ahead
Summer came and went, and finally, it was time for the big move! A little forward planning helped here too. We secured the arrival slot that best suited us and obtained the necessary parking permit for unloading my belongings.
Having both my family and care team with me made the process much easier—more hands made light work! My best tip? Get your loved ones to start unloading your belongings while you queue for your all-important room key.
Adjusting to University Life
It took me a little time to settle in and get used to university life, but I can now confidently say that the campus feels like home and has enabled me to be independent.
I quickly learned my usual routes (though there are plenty of maps to help while you find your way), and I can now navigate without the support of my PA, thanks to the many automatic or push-button-activated doors on campus. I’ll definitely miss that once I graduate!
Of course, there were some teething issues. When challenges arise, the Student Support and Wellbeing team is there to help. For example, I once had to be rescued by campus security when my chair got stuck in a rogue pothole! Additionally, the student-led Accessibility Network provides fantastic advice for managing disabilities at university. This year, I am proud to be the President of the Accessibility Network, helping others navigate their Kent journey.
Finding Your Own Way at University
If you’re feeling daunted about starting university, I hear you. I’ve been there. I was so overwhelmed and felt immense pressure when people told me university would be “the best years of my life.” But here’s what I’ve learned: there is no single ‘right way’ to experience university, especially when you have extra needs to consider.
Do what feels right for you to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. Plan ahead, build your support networks, and remember that Kent is here for every student, every step of the way.