"My college says I can be given extra time for tests, but I have trouble talking to teachers about it."
by Sandy Maynard
Set up an appointment with each professor during office hours (you may not have privacy after class), and bring along your letter. Start by letting the professor know that you want to do well in his or her class. Explain that extended time for tests has been approved for you as an accommodation, and that this accommodation will help you accomplish this goal.
Not all educators are sympathetic to their students' special needs. But since your accommodation has been approved by the disabilities office, the teacher is obliged to honor it. If your professor fails to provide extra time on tests, report him or her to the disabilities office.
I recently completed my master's degree, and, lo and behold, I had to take my own advice and ask for extra time to complete my thesis. I was nervous about it, but, in the end, it was no big deal.