College Students and Multiple Sclerosis: Navigating the College Experience

The number of children and adolescents diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) is on the rise, increasing the importance of understanding how to support college students living with the disease. Based on the results of two studies, this paper aims to identify challenges facing college students with MS, as well as possible resources and strategies for helping college students with MS have a successful college experience. The first study explored parents' concerns about their child managing college and MS. The second study examined perspectives of college students with MS on challenges, coping strategies, and supports while attending college and living with a chronic illness. Findings from both studies are used to make recommendations for assisting college students with MS as they strive to meet their educational goals.