VIDBE-Q 2026 Volume 71 Issue 1
The dedication and resourcefulness of my Bolivian colleagues inspired me
to pursue formal training in blindness and visual impairments upon my return to
the U.S. As I explored graduate programs, I learned about the severe shortage of
qualified professionals worldwide. Like many people, I had hardly heard of this
field and was unaware of the critical need for personnel. I was excited about the
prospect of building upon my overseas experience and contributing to the
profession, but I was very concerned about the cost of graduate studies and
accruing heavy debt. Prior to my time in Latin America, I had worked as a
draftsman and a machine programmer, so I had no formal training in rehabilitation
or education. This meant that I would have to complete prerequisite coursework
and incur additional expenses.
Upon calculating the cost of a graduate degree and prerequisite courses, I
concluded that the only way I could proceed would be with the assistance of a
large grant or scholarship. While researching programs, I learned that the U.S.
Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) offered
full-tuition grants for students studying low vision and blindness. In exchange, I
would need to teach in U.S. public schools for four years. Among the programs I
considered, Northern Illinois University had secured the OSEP grant. This would
allow me to study full-time, pursue my goals, and avoid needing a loan.
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