Danene Fast, Doctoral Student, The Ohio State University, fast.40@osu.edu
As an experienced practitioner who served as both an educator and an orientation and mobility (O&M)
specialist for over 20 years in the field, working with students who have visual impairments, the decision to
go "back to school" in pursuit of a higher education degree was one that took a lot of consideration. The
commitment of returning to school, full-time, for four years - after devoting countless direct hours to the
teaching and improvement of services for children who are blind or visually impaired – was a major life
decision.
Fast forward two years. I am currently a scholar with the National Leadership Consortium in Sensory
Disabilities (NLCSD) and a full-time student at The Ohio State University, completing my fifth semester of
doctoral classwork, with the hope that I will begin preparations for a dissertation study in the autumn semester.
Through the many opportunities provided to me as a scholar, I have learned a great deal – and continue to
learn a great deal – as I pursue my degree. For me, this choice was a perfect fit; however, not everyone who
wishes to pursue "higher education" can make this same decision.
While university learning has provided me with syllabi, textbooks, classroom discourse, and instructors,
the experience of attending the 2016 CEC Special Education Convention and Expo in St. Louis, Missouri
provided me with a different type of learning practice. Through a wide range of experiences – including
presentations, posters, general sessions, breakouts, and networking – I had the opportunity to learn with
others who share my interests and passion. Attending this conference - as both an educator and a student
learner – allowed me to meet, listen to, and collaborate with others from around the world who share similar
ideals to my own.
VIDBE-Q
Volume 62 Issue 1
"Higher education" doesn't always mean "back-to-
school": CEC conference 2016
25
