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Abstract
Research into the experiences of adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is limited. Due to the passing of laws such as the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) schools and colleges are mandated to provide academic accommodations to students with disabilities so that equal access to education is achieved. However, college students with ADHD are not fully taking advantage of the services available to them through offices of Disabled Student Services. Knowing that the symptoms of ADHD continue to be problematic for college-aged students, understanding mechanisms employed by this population could benefit current and future college students who face multiple struggles in their attempt to graduate with a college degree. The current qualitative study investigated the coping strategies of successful college students with ADHD. One-on-one interviews were conducted with seven participants, five females and two males, who were asked to identify the obstacles that hindered their attempts to complete a college degree and what strategies were employed leading to their success. Obstacles to success included: not understanding the college system; ignorance about ADHD; not being diagnosed or accepting the diagnosis; traditional formats of information presentation and testing; and inadequate study techniques. Successful strategies include: Keeping things small; working with the symptoms of ADHD to succeed; making connections; asking for help; developing study habits that match the strengths; finding classes that allow success; adjusting lifestyle and attitudes; and getting organized. Recommendations based on these findings are explored.