This book provides a research-based, practical guide to developing self-advocacy skills in university students. Through their research and clinical work, the authors demonstrate that students planning to or attending university or college can benefit from education about self-advocacy, guidance on how to effectively develop it, and an understanding of its value during university and beyond.
Beginning with an explanation of self-advocacy, this book educates readers on how one develops self-advocacy skills and will provide a timeline for success before, during, and after university. It also examines who is responsible for helping students develop self-advocacy skills and informs both parents and professionals through practical strategies and case studies. The experience and insight of the authors provide perspective from the front line: a professor and experienced department chair (both in Canada and the US), and an academic coach, therapist, and ADHD expert.
Through case studies and scripts, readers will find tangible takeaways they can utilize to begin developing and improving their self-advocacy skills. A guidebook for helping students with and without disabilities, this book is a blueprint for the universities, educators, and professionals who support them.
Table of Contents:
Introduction: Don't [just] read this book: use it as a tool and a guide 1. A Case Study of Kori and Corey: A Comparison Illustrates the Value of Self-Advocacy 2. The History and Evolution of Self-Advocacy 3. Preparing to Embrace The SAI: Taking the time to assess yourself and your world 4. Understanding the Benefits, Context, and Process of the Self-Advocacy Imagination 5. Implementing the Self-Advocacy Imagination 6. Pandemics, Technology, and Parents: Challenges and Opportunities 7. How Does the University Inspire or Impede the Self-Advocacy Imagination? 8. Creating Community: The Unique Versatility of the Self-Advocacy Imagination 9. The Relationship of Self-Advocacy to Mental Health, Well-Being, and Satisfaction
About the Author :
Meg Leahy, MS, NCC, BCC, is an award-winning educational and mental wellness innovator. In her private practice, she provides services that span education, counseling, learning disabilities, coaching, mentoring, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders.
Tom Buchanan, PhD, is a professor of sociology and award-winning former department chair at Mount Royal University. Tom is a dedicated teacher, researcher, and advocate for students in finding work in their fields after graduation.
Review :
"Leahy and Buchanan offer students timely and practical guidance for successfully navigating the university experience. Their insights and accessible strategies will be especially valuable for first-generation and marginalized students, equipping them with tools to demystify postsecondary institutional policies and programming, while also affirming and strengthening their existing potential to recognize and overcome institutional barriers."
Dr. Irene Shankar, award-winning professor of sociology and sociology program coordinator, Mount Royal University
