Queer crip enrollments: 2SLGBTQ mad, mentally ill, neurodivergent, and/or disabled college students

Abstract

Queer crip enrollment patterns describe the unique ways Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and disabled college students enter and persist in higher education. Elevating the voices of 10 queer, mad, mentally ill, neurodivergent and/or disabled (QMMIND) college students, this article highlights queer crip enrollment as a process that involves failing classes, withdrawing from institutions, (in)voluntary hospitalizations, and socioeconomic intersections. Queer crip enrollment patterns highlight institutional barriers limiting the success of QMMIND students. At the same time, QMMIND students dream of thriving and helping others thrive despite hostile campus environments. Using queer and crip theory, we engage in the process of dreaming about creating an accessible university. Specifically, we posit that structural changes in admissions, crisis response, and meeting students’ basic needs will allow environments to support queer crip success.