After I spent an amazing exchange year at an American High School in Minnesota back in 2015, here I am, back again in the US with my Bac (A’Levels) in hand. But this time, I am studying at a university in Illinois. This time the challenge also seemed to be tougher. I found myself alone (or rather without a host family), far away from a familiar environment and blind to boot. But the integration has been easier than I expected. Given that I have already spent a year abroad, I was well-prepared psychologically for this experience. However, I didn’t anticipate just how much work there is to do, especially taking into account my disability.
But my university has been amazing! Even before my arrival they provided me with some of the equipment I would need l. They provided me with a little device called “BrailleSens” which is like a computer and can also be linked to a laptop. In addition it has a braille display (all this is possible thanks to a bluetooth connection or a USB cable). It’s amazing isn’t it ?? This system allows me to take notes during lectures, to hand in my homework etc. I was so happy. But that’s not all. In spite of my visual impairment, I have been able to participate in many extra-curricular activities. For example, I’m part of a choir (one of the best on-campus), and the Quidditch team. I even had the opportunity to get a job, well, actually three if we want to be specific. I work at the cafeteria, for the IT service on Campus where I help improve web accessibility and I tutor Americans, studying French, with their homework. Honestly, everything is going great!
Over the past few months, I have realised that studying abroad is really my only way to achieve what I want, everything that I want. If I had stayed in France instead of studying in the US, I would have fewer opportunities to gain autonomy. I have learnt that my strength and my will are the keys to success.
I recommend to every young person, no matter your origin, your skin color, your language level, your handicap, to give it a go. “All you need is motivation”.
