Embarking on your college journey is both thrilling and a bit overwhelming. There’s a lot to consider, from picking a major to choosing classes and buying books. If you’re one of the 28.8 million U.S. adults who benefit from hearing aids, preparing for college involves some additional planning. Let’s explore how hearing aids can improve your college experience and share effective communication strategies to help you thrive in this new chapter.
How Can Hearing Aids Improve Your College Experience?
Hearing aids collect, amplify and deliver sounds directly to your ears. They can help you better hear your professors and classmates for a more effortless communication experience. A few specific features that can help you embrace the college experience include:
- Bluetooth® connection. Most modern hearing aids can connect to your smart devices via Bluetooth. You can use this feature to stream online classes directly to your ears, listen to music while studying at The Foundry Coffee House and more.
- Directional microphones. Directional microphones work to locate and amplify speech in the direction you’re facing, helping you clearly understand your professors lecturing at the front of the class.
- Telecoil. Telecoil, or t-coil, connects your hearing aids to assistive listening systems in classrooms, auditoriums and theaters, providing direct access to the speaker’s voice.
- Noise reduction. People with hearing loss often struggle to understand speech amidst background noise. Noise reduction technology helps minimize nonessential background noise to help you concentrate better in busy environments like cafeterias, dorm rooms, study areas and student mixers.
Communication Tips To Improve Understanding
Pairing hearing aids with communication tips will help reduce misunderstandings and improve your academic experience. A few tips to keep in mind include:
- Face professors and other students directly when interacting
- Ask for necessary accommodations like smaller audiences or quiet settings before oral exams or presentations
- Use written information, slides and lecture notes when possible
- Reduce background noise whenever possible
- Opt for small study groups of 2-4people
- Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification when needed
- Let your new friends know about your hearing loss, and feel free to ask for assistance in noisy environments
While hearing loss may pose challenges, it doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying the full college experience. Contact SoundLogic today to explore hearing solutions with one of our experts.