matt74

FertMigMort, I was diagnosed with epilepsy and a benign brain tumor when I was an adolescent. I have taken meds that severely effect cognition ever since. I have a masters degree. My experience is that in life generally, but more especially in school, when people find out about my illness most of them are somewhat sympathetic. However, they also often think less of me. They think I am not as competent, etc. This is true even of my family. When I have difficulties because of my illness people tend to get impatient. In my view this is partly because when you have an illness you are a burden, even if only psychologically, to other people. It's a pain for them and they would rather not deal with it. This is not the best attitude, but it is understandable. Perhaps more importantly, most of them can't relate at all to your situation - how many people do you know with brain tumors? So, most people have no idea what it is like, and that's why they don't understand. They can't. It's not their fault, any more that being sick is our fault. In grad school I noticed a willingness to make some adjustments, but a resistance to viewing me equally in spite of my situation. The professor may be all for me personally, but academically not so much. This is somewhat justified, because you are expected to do the same work. It's somewhat unfair, because you are being judged by criteria that are often arbitrary and intended for healthy people. The reality is that we have limitations and these limitations sometimes conflict with expectations. If your professor knows that you have "special" cerebellum, and judges you poorly for it, every little failure will only reinforce that judgement. I always felt that things went best when I did not seek special treatment unless it was absolutely necessary (e.g. I ended up in the hospital). I think it is best to explain only as much as absolutely necessary, many people don't want to hear about it anyhow. Even if you need more time for an assignment or something, don't go in saying "I have a brain tumor...", but just ask if you can have some extra time, and if they ask tell them you have been having some health issues. The reality is that these sorts of things don't fall under "diversity", and you may be judged rather harshly for them. Personally I found seeking "accommodations" terribly depressing. Keep it more professional. I don't know if that is the best solution, but I hope something I said may be of use. Take advantage of the health insurance. - Matthew