Jen Shaud Helps Advance Conversations on Disability Equity in Higher Ed
An ACSHF PhD student, Jen Shaud, recently contributed to The Chronicle of Higher Education’s latest piece: “Are That Many Students Really Faking Disabilities?”
Jen is studying what helps students with disabilities stay in school and reach graduation. Her work includes surveying students—both with and without disabilities—as well as the faculty members who teach them.
In her research, Jen asks what encourages students to seek accommodations and, more importantly, what stops them from asking. Both Jen’s work and other studies show that staying in school isn’t just about earning passing grades; it’s about feeling like you belong on campus. Many students hesitate to ask for help because they fear peers or teachers will think they’re looking for an ‘easy out.’ Jen is exploring how we can change those attitudes and give students the tools to speak up for themselves so they can thrive from day one.
