Meet Nicholas McGee
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College & Employment Supplement 
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College Success Story: Nicholas McGee
College: Gwynedd University
Brief Bio: Nick’s disability is Down Syndrome. All Gwynedd Mercy University’s Integrated Studies program students receive accommodations and modifications. Accommodations change the academic environment to support the student’s learning needs. Modifications change the content, assessment formations, quantity expected, etc., and are only offered to students in Integrated Studies who are auditing a course.
Some of Nick’s accommodations included extended time on tests and the ability to take tests in the testing center, which is a setting free from distractions. He also benefitted from breaks as needed and the support of a peer mentor. Nick had a modification that allowed for a reduction in writing expectations, shortening his papers to no more than two pages. He was allowed to use his class notes on exams, have a peer mentor read test questions aloud, and he was able to ask clarifying questions. Additionally, Nick received fewer exam questions and was allowed to use bullet points to answer any essay or short answer questions.
Questions:
1.Tell us your biggest struggle at the beginning of attending college. Example: Answering emails, homework deadlines, etc.
I started my freshman year at the start of COVID. I initially enjoyed going to class on campus and being with all the college students. Then, everything changed to virtual learning. I struggled with taking classes online and not seeing everyone.
2.We’re curious how you do your college work. What is your process if you were given a paper to write or a presentation/ PowerPoint?
● What did you do first? I met with my peer mentor, discussed the syllabus, and made a plan. We usually gave presentations as a group. My peer mentor guided me through the process of writing a paper.
● What did you do next? We would meet regularly with the group to discuss our roles. I wrote several papers with the help of my peer mentor. The mentor would break down the steps to writing the paper.
● What did you do after that? Presentations would be given as a group. Papers were submitted after being reviewed with a mentor.
● Are there any accommodations or tools that help you? If so, what are they? Accommodations included extra time preparing, meeting with peer mentors, and scaling back requirements for papers/ presentations.
3.How has the college helped you (peer help, tutoring, accommodations, self-confidence, etc.)
I feel I am more organized in getting things done. I worked well with my mentors individually and within a group. The internships helped me to work in different settings. I lived independently for five months and felt my experience at GMercyU helped me get there.
4.Please share with us what you’re most proud of about yourself regarding your college experience so far.
I am most proud to have been involved with Best Buddies, Student Government, and Student Affairs. I made a lot of friends and enjoyed my time on the campus. I was gaining confidence in doing anything possible. I finished and completed all semesters and received my certificate in Integrated Studies focusing on Marketing. I’m proud that I was one of the first students in the program. I am also most proud that I was the first person with Down Syndrome to be part of the Disney College Program. I finished five months living on my own and working for Disney.
Just for Fun Questions
5.What is your favorite place to eat on campus, and what is your usual order?
My favorite place to eat on campus was Valley Pizza Company. I loved the pepperoni pizza.
6.What is the most fun activity you have been to on your campus?
The Halloween event in the fall was my favorite, and I also attended sporting events.
7.If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
My superpower would be to save the world.
More from the Series
Bridging the Steps of Transition Planning for FUTURE Success
Transition Planning: Interest Profile
Transition Planning: Person-Centered Planning
The Parts, Pieces, And Timeline of Transitioning Into Adulthood
Vocation Skill Building and Job Coaching: The Nicholas Center
This post originally appeared on our September/October 2024 Magazine
