To mention a disability?

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To mention a disability?

by getmba2011 » Sun Jan 02, 2011 12:22 pm
At lease one MBA application is asking "Do you have a disability (a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities)?"

I suffer from spinal stenosis, a degenerative back disease that has caused me to have back surgery before the age of 25. I currently have 4 herniated disks, am in constant pain, and have been told there is nothing I can do to remedy the problem. As I go through life, more and more of the disks will herniate. I may have surgery again, but each operation will only work to prevent temporary pain, and not solve my actual root problem.

So should I tell the adcoms? While my problem is not causing a delay in my application, I am laid up from work several times throughout the year. Despite this, I have succeeded and been promoted. While I do not want to sound weak or whiny, I am proud of myself for doing what I have considering my condition.

Many thanks in advance!
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by Tani » Sun Jan 02, 2011 10:05 pm
How likely is it that your condition will come out, if not in recommendations then in interviews? If you think they will find out about your back, you should mention it first. Consider turning it around to show your determination and ability to perform under stress. The fact that you have earned promotions despite the demands on your time and energy from this condition says a lot about you and about your ability. Think about getting an experienced admissions consultant to help you position the issue in the most positive possible way.

Good luck.
Tani Wolff