College Diabetes Network offers T1D Peer Support

The College Diabetes Network

In 2009, University of Massachusetts Amherst student Christina Roth founded the College Diabetes Network (CDN). As a junior with type 1 diabetes (T1D), Roth saw the need and lack of a support system for students with T1D.

Like many type 1 college students, Roth experienced the everyday challenges of campus life, juggling classes, extracurricular activities, and a bustling social calendar – all while managing diabetes. She sought a way for young adults to share their experiences, resources and trials through an encouraging support system.

Today, the College Diabetes Network has grown into a national non-profit organization with CDN chapters in over 150 colleges and universities across the United States. As of 2023, the CDN works with more than 300 campuses, providing peer support, resources and leadership opportunities.

The Diabetes Link

Every CDN Diabetes Link chapter is different. Most entertain casual gatherings over dinner, coffee or game night. Some affiliates host large events with fundraising and community outreach.

Diabetes Link can help smooth your college transition and empower you to tackle this next phase in life.

Read on for ways to get involved with CDN’s Diabetes Link.

What if my school is not affiliated with CDN?

The Diabetes Link website provides a catalog of school chapters to join. However, if your school is missing out and you want to expand the guidance and peer support beyond the online resources, you can start your own chapter.

Diabetes Link Online Community

Diabetes Link offers an online community where people can share ideas, gripes, and challenges. It’s a safe place to vent, ask questions and provide a helping hand.

Online Resource Hub

Students can register for monthly live sessions packed with informative resources about their college journey, logistics, dorm life, med check-ins, and family boundaries.

What’s more, you can help the younger generation navigate the journey. Check the website’s Resource Hub for leadership opportunities, advocacy efforts, and a free video library. The video subjects range from T1D Testing, marijuana use with T1D, Greek life, and mental health.

Off to College

Prior to starting school, T1D students can register for the Off to College series, which offers relatable ideas on packing supplies, setting your course load, and finding the right balance between social and academic life.

Search for Scholarships with Scholly

Diabetes Link offers a diabetes scholarship tool to search for opportunities. Scholly is a comprehensive matching platform used by high school seniors, undergraduates and graduate students seeking diabetes scholarships. Access to Scholly costs $2.99.

Peer Connections on the Discord App

The CDN Discord app is a real-time channel where you can find friends and resources.

The space shares advice and tips through group chats. You can communicate with other T1Ds via message, voice or video. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free recipes, the best low-carb snack options, or insurance questions, chances are you’ll find someone to help.

“Our Discord server is a non-judgmental, supportive, online community for young people with diabetes between the ages of 14-26 years old.” Diabetes Link.

Diabetes Link Newsletter

Sign up for the Diabetes Link newsletter for up-to-date happenings, diabetes news, and events around your area.

Diabetes Link TikTok

Watch free videos from those who walk the walk. Get tech advice for your insulin pump, continuous glucose monitor, or tips on exercising and lifting weights. Chances are you’ll find helpful solutions to most issues.

The online communities now have the sponsorship of Lilly, Sanofi and Novo Nordisk®. You can also find The Diabetes Link on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

NextGen Fellow Experience

The CDN also provides job postings for those interested in a career in diabetes. The NextGen Fellowship is a highly-exclusive opportunity for young adults looking to jumpstart their careers in the diabetes sector.

NextGen Fellow Experience offers:

• Summit Series sessions offer guaranteed access to leading researchers, care professionals, and expert resources on the cutting edge of the diabetes sector, particularly the physical effects and negative psychological aspects
• Mentorship from leading professionals working in your field of interest. 
• Attend a national diabetes conference to learn and discover innovations in real-time and network with industry leaders.
• A network of your T1D peers, the future best and brightest in the field.

Diabuddies Unite

As you head off to school or back to campus, check out the free resources available through CDN to guide you back on solid ground. Thanks to Christina Roth, for over ten years, the CDN chapters have been providing young adults with the peer connections they value during this very challenging transition.

No one really knows what you’re going through—unless they’ve experienced it firsthand. Experience brings a wealth of knowledge and assistance to any situation. It’s a way to share stories, inspire others, and vent frustrations with trusted sources.