I am a blind person who had difficulty/dilemma finding a University
that could accommodate me with my studies for Ph.D. in 2015. I was 68
years old when my wife died from a terrible lung disease, Chronic
Obstructive pulmonary Disorder (copd), so to keep my mind occupied, I
decided that the best thing was to study something of my interest and I
inquired about furthering my education. I called and tried to apply
and/or register for Ph.D. course at several Universities, since I
already obtained my Master’s Degree back in 2001.
I really didn’t want to travel that much anymore, like I have done
in the past, when transportation was more available. Many of these other
universities were not going to accommodate me with online course and/or
with any material that my talking computer (Speech-Software) could
read. They made me feel like I was bothering them too much. Even though
we now have the American Disability Act (ADA) laws to protect us with
disabilities. But, the procedure for taking the time consumption to file
a complaint was too lengthy and at my age I didn’t want to spend that
much time, accept to study for a higher degree.
Now, when I found Atlantic International University (AIU), I
discovered a profound and wonderful University that was willing to spend
the time with me and accommodate me with all my needs as a blind
person.
Therefore, I applied and pass for entering AIU and studied day and
night for over two straight years, which kept me from thinking so much
about my dear/loved wife. This University was willing to take all my
courses/materials/work and translate it all in Word Documents and send
it by my email attachment, so my computer could read the material, which
provided me to be able to study on an equal level as people with
vision.
So, this was something most Universities I communicated with, was not
willing to accommodate me this way like AIU, who was more than
prepared/agreeable to help and assist me through their profound and
beautiful people/counselors, who assisted me with all my needs .
After receiving my degree, I became a more educated and special
advocate for the blind, disable (veterans) and elderly, which I have
been commencing to do for over fifty years. Thanks to this great,
wonderful, brilliant and magnificent university!
Gerard Boucher Ph.D.
Blind War Veteran
