For many students, studying abroad may be the highlight of their university life. After all, the privilege of being able to travel to another part of the world and experience unique places and perspectives firsthand can benefit many aspects of a student’s life. Unfortunately, students with disabilities have traditionally been excluded from any discussion of study abroad, and it is often assumed that a disability disqualifies students from studying independently abroad. Too often. However, Rowan’s Office of Education Abroad is taking significant steps to ensure that all students, regardless of disability, have the opportunity to experience the benefits of studying abroad.
On Thursday, October 24, Rowan’s Office of Education Abroad hosted a gathering in the Student Center to spread awareness about opportunities to study abroad for students with disabilities. Featuring speakers from the Office of Overseas Education, the Office of Accessibility Services, and more, the event addressed all the questions that may arise when studying abroad with a disability.
“It’s a really great opportunity if it’s available to you,” said Laura Kahler, advisor for education abroad. “Even if you go through hardships abroad, you can still grow and gain beauty. In general, there are many good things you can get from studying abroad. Just do your best.”
“We had very few students with disabilities,” Kahler said. “I think they sent one or two people while I was here.”
Kahler went on to detail efforts to expand study abroad opportunities to more students with disabilities. This could mean partnering with study abroad providers that have accessibility teams or providing students with information about how accessible different destinations are for people with disabilities. Rowan’s Education Abroad Office strives to make our programs available to as many students as possible.
“You can learn a lot and see the world at the same time,” said Michelle Valero, a travel advisor who specializes in accommodation for people with disabilities.
Valero founded his own travel agency, Valero Infinite Journeys, dedicated to helping people with disabilities plan their trips and ensure their needs are met. She spoke to Rowan students at Thursday’s assembly, providing important insight into the ins and outs of traveling with a disability. In particular, Mr. Valero emphasized the importance of planning in advance of a trip to ensure that the necessary facilities needed by a person with a disability are or will be provided at a particular location during the journey. I emphasized.
“Ensuring you have adequate accommodation for the things you need for daily living. Maybe that’s changing your clothes, using the toilet, showering, etc. You need to check if these things are available to you. You’re leaving your comfort zone of home where you have everything,” Valero said.
Throughout his speech, Valero reiterated that it is still very possible to go abroad with a disability, although there are some hurdles.
“I never say it can’t be done. You can always do it, anytime,” Valero said. “This is an amazing and valuable experience. Always remember what you can do.”
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