University life can be full of opportunities to connect — study groups, clubs, late-night conversations, spontaneous hangouts. If you’re living with a disability, you already know that socialising might involve an extra layer of planning, but it’s absolutely possible to build strong, meaningful friendships without sacrificing your needs or changing who you are.
Social life is what you make it
There’s no single ‘right’ way to be social. Some people love big events and crowded spaces. Others prefer smaller groups, quiet conversations or online communities. None of those are better or worse. If your access needs shape how you engage socially, that’s not limiting — it’s just different.
You can build a social life that fits your rhythm. That might mean starting a group chat, organising accessible movie nights or making friends through classes or mutual interests. What matters most is that it works for you.
Being open helps, but you set the terms
Friendship gets easier when people understand your needs, but that doesn’t mean you have to explain everything all the time. You get to decide how much to share, when, and with whom. A simple heads-up like “Hey, can we meet somewhere with an elevator?” can go a long way.
Most people want to include others — they just don’t always think about accessibility unless it directly affects them. Giving them a chance to be more thoughtful can actually strengthen your connection.
You bring a lot to the table
Friendships aren’t just about being invited — they’re about mutual respect and shared experiences. Your perspective, sense of humour, resilience and insight all matter. People are drawn to authenticity. You don’t need to hide or overcompensate. Being yourself is the best way to attract people who are real with you too.
Choose people who choose you back
Good friends show up. They adapt. They don’t make you feel like a burden or an afterthought. It’s okay to walk away from people who don’t get it. The right ones will respect your boundaries, celebrate your wins, and check in when it counts.
Quality matters more than quantity. A few solid friendships are more valuable than a hundred surface-level ones.
Accessibility can build community
At Curtin, you can connect with other students through the Student Guild’s Accessibility Department, an active group on campus that raises awareness, represents student voices and hosts events aimed at inclusion. The Guild offers opportunities to meet others who understand your perspective, build friendships, swap tips and grow together. You’re not alone. And there’s strength in finding others who understand where you’re coming from.
Barriers exist but they don’t define your social life. You don’t need to change yourself – you already belong here. The connections you make will grow from your strengths, your perspective and your presence — and they’ll be all the more real because of it.
