Achieving Your Goals: Resources for Young Adults with Epilepsy in School & Work

Austin Cole
May 17
12 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Epilepsy can present unique challenges in the classroom and the workplace. Unpredictable seizures, medication side effects, or even social stigma might sometimes make it harder to focus on school or feel confident at work. The good news is that you are not alone and there are many resources to help you succeed. From academic accommodations and financial aid to career support and legal rights, this guide will walk you through tools and communities that can empower you to reach your goals. It’s absolutely possible to thrive in your education and career with epilepsy – many have done it, and so can you.

Accessing Academic Accommodations and Disability Services

One of the first steps to success in school is knowing about academic accommodations available for students with health conditions like epilepsy. Colleges, universities, and many high schools have an Office of Disability Services (sometimes called Accessibility Services) where you can register to get support. To receive accommodations, students usually must register with the disability services office and provide documentation of their condition. This typically involves filling out an intake form and submitting a letter from your doctor or neurologist confirming your epilepsy diagnosis and how it affects you. Don’t wait until you’re struggling – it’s best to contact the disability office early (even before classes start) so your accommodations are in place when you need them.

What kinds of accommodations might help? Every student is different, but common academic accommodations for epilepsy ensure you won’t be unfairly penalized if a seizure or appointment causes you to miss class or need extra time. For example, schools may allow flexible attendance and makeup policies, so you can make up missed work without penalty and have excused absences related to your epilepsy. You might also get extended time on exams and assignments, or take tests in a quiet room with reduced distractions if concentration is an issue. Many students benefit from note-taking assistance or permission to record lectures, so you don’t miss information during or after a seizure. In class, preferred seating (like near the door) can be arranged for easy exit if needed, and professors can be alerted to be understanding if you need to step out or if you ask questions that repeat information (memory lapses can happen after seizures). The exact accommodations depend on your needs – you’ll discuss these with a disability services counselor in an interactive process to find what works for you. Remember, academic accommodations are your right, not a special favor. They exist to give you an equal opportunity to succeed, so don’t hesitate to use them.

How do you access accommodations? Typically, after registering and being approved, the disability services office will provide an official letter or plan detailing your accommodations. You’ll share this with your instructors (usually each term) so they know how to support you. It can feel a bit intimidating to talk to professors about your epilepsy, but you don’t have to disclose more than you’re comfortable with – a simple notification of approved accommodations is enough. Most teachers will appreciate knowing how to help. If any issues arise (for instance, a professor not honoring your accommodations), the disability office can assist or advocate on your behalf. In short, register early, communicate with your school, and use the tools available to help you shine academically. With things like extra time, flexibility, and support in place, you can focus more on learning and less on worrying about the “what ifs.”

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Students with Epilepsy

College and vocational training can be expensive, but having epilepsy shouldn’t hold you back from getting the education you want. In fact, many scholarships and financial aid programs are aimed at students with disabilities or chronic conditions, including epilepsy. Some of these are offered by epilepsy advocacy organizations or even pharmaceutical companies, and they can help fund your tuition and related costs.

To give a few inspiring examples, the UCB Family Epilepsy Scholarship Program has awarded over 650 scholarships (more than $3 million in total) to students living with epilepsy and their family members since 2004. These scholarships – often a few thousand dollars each – have helped recipients pursue college and graduate degrees. In one recent year, UCB awarded 33 scholarships (including several $10,000 awards) to support the academic dreams of people impacted by epilepsy. Another example is the Charles L. Shor Epilepsy Opportunity Fund, which provides scholarships for college, technical school, or certification programs and even helps with everyday expenses like rent and utilities for youth with epilepsy who are continuing their education. This kind of wraparound support recognizes that financial challenges outside of tuition can also impact your ability to stay in school.

You’ll also find scholarships specific to epilepsy in different regions. For instance, in Canada, the Parke–Davis Epilepsy Scholarship awards 16 scholarships each year (worth about $3,000 each) to students who have epilepsy and are pursuing college or university studies. Many epilepsy foundation chapters or national associations have their own awards – so it’s worth checking the epilepsy organization in your country or area to see what’s offered. Don’t forget to look at broader disability scholarships too. Programs like the Microsoft Disability Scholarship support high school seniors with disabilities (including epilepsy) who plan to study technology fields, and organizations such as Lime Connect offer scholarships and internships for talented students with disabilities across various industries.

How to find and apply for these opportunities? A great first step is to visit the websites of major epilepsy organizations and search for “scholarships.” You can also talk to your school’s financial aid office – they may know of disability-related awards. When applying, be sure to highlight your achievements, goals, and how epilepsy has shaped your journey (often these scholarships ask for a personal essay). It may feel a bit daunting to put yourself out there, but remember that these programs exist because others believe in your potential. As one scholarship recipient described, “It’s a big accomplishment that people with epilepsy can go to college and start a career.” Financial help is out there to make that accomplishment easier for you. Don’t be shy about going for it – you deserve every opportunity to pursue your dreams.

Career Guidance and Vocational Rehabilitation Programs

Planning for a career can be stressful for anyone, and you might wonder how epilepsy could affect your job choices. The truth is, people with epilepsy work successfully in all sorts of fields, from education and technology to healthcare, arts, public service – you name it. With some preparation and the right resources, you can find a path that fits your talents and keeps you healthy. One valuable resource to know about is vocational rehabilitation (VR). Vocational rehabilitation programs are services (often run by government agencies or nonprofits) that help people with disabilities prepare for and find employment. The goal of “voc rehab” is to equip you with the training, tools, or accommodations you might need so you can start a meaningful career and become economically independent.

In many countries, there are state or provincial VR agencies you can access, usually for free. For example, in the United States, each state has a Vocational Rehabilitation office that offers career counseling, job skills training, assistance with résumé writing and interviewing, and sometimes even funding for school or equipment if it’s needed for your employment goals. These programs are designed to help people with conditions like epilepsy enter or re-enter the workforce and can significantly improve job outcomes. Don’t be deterred by the paperwork – typically, you’ll need to provide proof of your disability (like a doctor’s note) and work with a counselor to develop an employment plan. They can help identify suitable job options if, say, you can’t do shift work or drive because of seizures, and they can coordinate training or accommodations with potential employers.

Aside from government VR, there are also nonprofit organizations and community programs focused on career development for people with disabilities. Some epilepsy organizations run employment workshops or mentorship programs. For example, Epilepsy Foundation affiliates have offered webinars on navigating the workplace with epilepsy and tips for job searching. Epilepsy Alliance member organizations help job seekers by providing skills coaching, identifying available jobs, and even educating employers about epilepsy. Don’t overlook your school’s career center either – be sure to let them know if you might need any specific support in your job hunt. Many universities have disability career services or partnerships with programs like Lime Connect (which links students with disabilities to internships at big companies).

Finally, consider connecting with a mentor or role model who has epilepsy and is working in your field of interest. They can provide invaluable guidance on how they managed any challenges. Some hospitals even have transition programs that pair young adults with epilepsy with peer mentors who’ve “been there, done that” and can guide you in planning your future. By tapping into vocational resources, you’ll gain confidence in your strengths and learn to address any potential hurdles proactively. Whether it’s through formal rehab services or informal mentorship, there’s support to help you build a thriving career. You have so much to contribute, and with a bit of help, you’ll be ready to show employers what you’re capable of.

Knowing Your Workplace Rights and Accommodations

Entering the workforce, it’s important to know that you have rights on the job. Just as schools must accommodate students with disabilities, employers in many countries are legally required to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities (and epilepsy is typically covered). In the United States, for example, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a key law that protects workers with disabilities, including epilepsy. It prohibits job discrimination and mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations unless it would cause undue hardship. That means if you can do the essential functions of a job, an employer must try to adjust aspects of the job or workplace to help you work safely and effectively. This could range from modifying your work schedule or duties to adapting the workspace lighting if, say, you have photosensitivity.

What do workplace accommodations for epilepsy look like in practice? They will depend on your specific needs and the nature of your job, but here are some examples:

Flexible scheduling or remote work options: If seizures or medication make you groggy in the mornings or require rest periods, an adjusted schedule or occasional telework can be a reasonable accommodation. Employers might allow shifting your hours later, providing longer or more frequent breaks, or letting you work from home on days you’re not feeling well.
Job duty modifications: Some adjustments ensure safety – for instance, if driving is part of a job and you’re not cleared to drive, your employer could transfer those duties to someone else or move you to a role without driving requirements. If certain tasks are known seizure triggers (like working at heights or around strobe lighting), your job can be restructured to remove or reduce those duties as long as they’re not essential functions.
Emergency planning and recovery support: A seizure action plan at the workplace can be an accommodation. This means you inform a few colleagues or a supervisor on what to do if you have a seizure (keeping you safe and getting help). Employers might also designate a quiet, private space for you to recover after a seizure so you can lie down until you feel better.
Leave and medical flexibility: You may need to take time for medical appointments or occasional sick days if your epilepsy flares up. Allowing use of sick leave or unpaid leave for these medical needs is a reasonable accommodation. Additionally, if fatigue is an issue, having a place to take a short rest (like a wellness room) during a long shift can help you maintain productivity.

Importantly, you have the right to confidentiality and a bias-free workplace. You are not required to disclose your epilepsy to an employer unless you need an accommodation (and even then, you only need to share relevant information). Many people choose to disclose so that they can get support or explain a potential medical emergency at work – but this is a personal choice. If you do disclose, the ADA and similar laws protect you from being retaliated against or treated unfairly because of your condition. Any medical information you provide is supposed to be kept private by HR. It can be helpful to educate your employer or coworkers about epilepsy (if you’re comfortable) to clear up misconceptions.

Remember, workplace rights aren’t about getting special treatment – they’re about leveling the playing field. If you ever feel you’re facing discrimination or your accommodation requests aren’t being taken seriously, you can reach out to your local labor department or disability rights agency for guidance. But in many cases, simply knowing what you’re entitled to and having an open conversation with your employer leads to a good outcome. Plenty of people with epilepsy have successful, fulfilling careers. By advocating for what you need – and knowing that laws have your back – you can focus on doing your best work. Also, consider joining your company’s disability Employee Resource Group if one exists; many companies have ERGs for employees with disabilities, which can provide peer support and mentorship on the job. You have every right to chase your career ambitions, and a supportive employer will recognize your talents above all else.

Finding Support and Community: You’re Not Alone

Living with epilepsy can sometimes feel isolating, especially if none of your friends or coworkers really “get” what you’re going through. That’s why connecting with support organizations and peer networks can be so powerful. There are many groups – both in-person and online – dedicated to epilepsy awareness, mentorship, and community. Finding your epilepsy community can give you emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of empowerment from knowing others who have walked a similar path. A great place to start is the national or regional epilepsy foundation in your area. These organizations often offer a wealth of resources: information guides, helplines, mentorship programs, and support groups. Many have specific programs for youth or young adults. For instance, some foundations host free virtual and in-person support groups for people living with epilepsy and their families. They even have groups just for young adults, providing a space to share experiences and encouragement among peers who understand. In fact, one chapter runs a monthly Young Adult Support Group online where you can talk about everything from managing seizure triggers in college to navigating social life – all in a judgment-free environment. Other organizations offer forums and local meet-ups, and some focus specifically on helping young people through education and advocacy.

Beyond large organizations, there are also peer-led communities you might join. One example is YAWE (Young Adults with Epilepsy), a community created by and for young adults. They host weekly virtual hangouts where folks with epilepsy can laugh, cry, listen, or just connect with people who “get it.” It’s a safe space to vent about challenges, celebrate victories (big or small), and swap tips on things like handling stress or talking about epilepsy with new friends. Some hospitals and clinics have their own peer support or mentor programs as well – for example, a children’s hospital might pair a teen with epilepsy with an older youth mentor to help guide them into adult life. These mentorships can be incredibly encouraging, showing you positive role models who have managed school or jobs while controlling their seizures.

Don’t underestimate the value of online communities too. Social media groups, forums, and epilepsy-related Discord servers can connect you with peers globally at any time of day. Just be mindful to stick to reputable communities and be cautious with medical advice on forums (always double-check with your doctor). The main point is, you are part of a worldwide community of people with epilepsy, and we tend to lift each other up. Whether it’s sharing how you handled exam season during a bout of seizures, or giving tips on how to explain gaps in your résumé, your fellow warriors have insights that can help. And sometimes, on a tough day, it just helps to hear someone say “I’ve been there too, and it gets better.”

Epilepsy awareness is a global movement. Iconic buildings around the world are lit up in purple on “Purple Day” (March 26) to show support for people with epilepsy. Connecting with the epilepsy community can remind you that you’re never alone in this journey.

Finally, don’t hesitate to leverage professional support networks as well. Disability services organizations and vocational rehab agencies often run job clubs or mentorship programs where you can meet others with disabilities in professional fields. Some companies have mentoring programs pairing new hires with disabilities with more experienced employees. And if you ever feel your mental health is struggling (which is not uncommon when dealing with a chronic condition), asking for help is a sign of strength. Many epilepsy organizations can refer you to counselors or even offer free workshops on coping strategies.

Empowerment Through Support

Pursuing your dreams with epilepsy is absolutely achievable. It might require some extra planning and advocacy, but the resources are out there and people genuinely want to help you succeed. By arranging the right academic accommodations, easing financial burdens with scholarships, tapping into career services and rehab programs, and knowing your workplace rights, you are setting yourself up for success. Just as important, by connecting with support networks and peers, you’re building a foundation of encouragement and understanding that will carry you through challenges.

Remember that needing accommodations or support is not a sign of weakness – it’s a smart and proactive way to reach your full potential. Every student may need a different study strategy, and every employee uses tools to do their job; in the same way, your epilepsy resources are tools to help you be your best. You have as much to contribute to your school and your workplace as anyone else. With your talent, determination, and the support systems we’ve discussed, you can break through any barriers that epilepsy might try to put in your way.

Stay hopeful and proud of how far you’ve come already. Whether you aim to ace your exams, land that dream job, or simply build a stable, independent life, you’ve got a whole community behind you. Keep pushing forward, celebrate your victories (big and small), and don't be afraid to ask for the help you need. Your goals are within reach, and epilepsy is just one part of your story – it doesn’t define your limits. With knowledge, support, and self-advocacy, you truly can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Sources & Helpful Resources

Epilepsy Foundation – “Attending College with Epilepsy”https://www.epilepsy.com/parents-and-caregivers/work-college/attending-college
AHEAD – Documentation Guidance for Students with Disabilitieshttps://www.ahead.org/professional-resources/accommodations/documentation
HEATH Resource Center – Transition Tips for Students with Health Conditionshttps://www.epilepsy.com/stories/epilepsy-strategies-transitioning-college
Job Accommodation Network (JAN) – A‑to‑Z of College Accommodationshttps://askjan.org/a-to-z.cfm
UCB Family Epilepsy Scholarship Programhttps://www.ucbepilepsyscholarship.com/
CURE Epilepsy – Education Enrichment Fund Scholarshiphttps://www.cureepilepsy.org/news/meet-the-2021-cure-epilepsy-scholars/
Defeating Epilepsy Scholarshiphttps://www.defeatingepilepsy.org/scholarships/
Charles L. Shor Epilepsy Opportunity Fundhttps://www.comm-foundation.org/shor
Parke–Davis Epilepsy Scholarship (Canada)https://www.neads.ca/en/norc/funding/page38.php
Microsoft Disability Scholarshiphttps://www.microsoft.com/en-us/diversity/programs/microsoftdisabilityscholarship
Lime Connect – Scholarships & Internshipshttps://limeconnect.com/opportunities/scholarships-awards/
Epilepsy Foundation – Chapter‑by‑Chapter Scholarship List (PDF)https://www.eftx.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Scholarship-Opportunities.pdf
U.S. State/Provincial Vocational Rehabilitation Directoryhttps://rsa.ed.gov/about/states
JAN – Epilepsy Workplace Fact Sheethttps://askjan.org/disabilities/Epilepsy-Seizure-Disorder.cfm
U.S. Department of Labor – ODEP Disability Employment Hubhttps://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep
Epilepsy Foundation – Employment & Accommodation Webinarshttps://www.epilepsy.com/lifestyle/employment/accomodation
Epilepsy Alliance America – Employment Webinar Hubhttps://epilepsyallianceamerica.org/webinar-hub/
EEOC – ADA Questions & Answers for People with Epilepsyhttps://mn.gov/mnddc/future/pdf/olmstead/13-QAE-EEO.pdf
Epilepsy Action (UK) – Work & Epilepsy Guidehttps://www.epilepsy.org.uk/living/work
Empowering Epilepsy – Workplace Tipshttps://www.empoweringepilepsy.org/epilepsy-in-the-workplace