Post Secondary Toolkit
Planning ahead for school, health, and independence
Starting college, university, or another post-secondary path is an exciting step — and it comes with new responsibilities. For youth living with rheumatic disease, planning ahead can help ensure that both health and academic needs are supported.
This toolkit is designed to help you prepare, stay organized, and move into this next stage with confidence.
Before You Begin
Preparing ahead of time can make a significant difference in how smoothly the transition goes. Taking time to organize your healthcare, academic supports, and daily routines will help reduce stress once classes begin.
Planning Checklist:
- Understand your diagnosis and treatment plan
- Know your medications, dosages, and schedule
- Have contact information for your healthcare team
- Ensure prescriptions are up to date
- Plan how you’ll manage appointments
Accessing Academic Support
Most post-secondary institutions offer accessibility or student support services. These services are there to help ensure that students with medical conditions can succeed academically.
Registering early gives you access to accommodations that can support your learning.
Examples of Support:
- Extended time for exams or assignments
- Flexible deadlines during flare-ups
- Note-taking support
- Adjusted course loads
- Access to quiet or rest spaces
Managing Your Healthcare
If you’re moving away from home, it’s important to plan how you’ll access healthcare in your new location.
Some Key Considerations:
- Find a local doctor or specialist if needed
- Know where your nearest pharmacy is
- Understand your health insurance or coverage
- Plan how you’ll manage medications and refills
- Keep a record of your medical history
Managing Your Daily Life
Post-secondary life often comes with new schedules, responsibilities, and social environments. Finding workable routines that support both your health and your goals is key.
Useful Tips:
- Build time for rest into your schedule
- Stay organized with classes and deadlines
- Maintain consistent medication routines
- Listen to your body and adjust when needed
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help
Staying Connected
Even as you become more independent, staying connected to support systems remains important. This can include family, healthcare providers, and peer networks.
Download the
Checklist
“Having a plan before I started university made everything feel more manageable. I knew what to expect and how to handle challenges when they came up.” — Youth participant
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Step Into this Next Chapter Prepared
Post-secondary life is an important milestone. With the right preparation and support, you can manage your health, pursue your goals, and build a future that reflects your strengths and ambitions.