Unlocking Academic Potential
for ADD/ADHD Students
Transitioning from high school to college is challenging for all students, but it's especially daunting for those with ADD/ADHD.
In high school, structured support and coordinated assignments help manage their unique learning needs.
In college, however, the lack of consistent structure, strict professor policies, and demanding "weed out" courses can overwhelm them.
Program Change addresses this gap by offering personalized learning programs that help ADD/ADHD students get organized, stay organized, track progress, and stay accountable, ensuring their academic success in higher education.
Our Services
Initial Intake and Planning
Individual Assessment:
Evaluate high school academic support plans
Navigate university disability accommodation processes
Identify optimal study habits and environments
Gather input from family on academic strengths and challenges
Academic Planning:
Review course syllabi
Organize assignments and exams on a calendar
Create a study schedule, identifying heavy workload weeks
Coaching and Support During the Semester
Regular coaching sessions to assess progress and grades
Support in planning for upcoming assignments and prioritizing tasks
Check-ins before and after exams or critical assignments
Guidance on contacting professors, advisors, and family for support
Study Assistance
Junior/Senior students will share study techniques on what they have found to be successful in college.
Junior/Senior students will help with explaining professor communications differences, university Canvas system, testing processes, how to use approved accommodations, etc.
Study groups with other students in Program Change to help with study focus.
Why Work With Me?
I am a mother of twins at Penn State, one with ADD and the other with ADHD.
My daughter struggled academically and socially before her late diagnosis, while my son received support from grade school after being diagnosed early.
Advocating for my son taught me the unique needs of ADHD students, and his success was bolstered by an incredible high school support teacher.
However, his initial college experience lacked the necessary structure and understanding, leading to significant struggles.
Now thriving at Penn State after transferring from community college, he still faces challenges but perseveres.
My mission is to offer the support ADD/ADHD students need to succeed in college, proving they are smart, capable, and not defined by their diagnoses.
-Mija Coppola, ‘93 Penn State Grad
