[nabs-l] Spacial Awareness as a Totally Blind Person

[Corbb O'Connor]

One trick that's worked for me at networking events is to go up to  
people and say, "Hi, I'm Corbb. What group are you here with?" If I  
find that it's another student, I don't immediately push myself away.  
Instead, I say, "Ah me too! Which partner did you find the most  
interesting?" That way, I not only get information about what other  
companies might be in the room, but I get a chance to be social and  
not just "on a mission" to find contacts. As for breaking into  
conversations, sometimes I'll step back and listen for a moment, and  
if the conversation is between a few students and a recruiter, say,  
"My question is similar to that -- " and then ask a question. That  
brings me into the circle, shows I am engaged, and assures the group  
that I'm not lost and looking for something in particular. Oh, and if  
somebody asks where you're heading or whatnot, just say, "I'm just  
seeing what I can find -- I'm Corbb, by the way, a student at GW  
hoping to go into economic journalism or consulting." That often is a  
great way to meet people I wouldn't otherwise have met!

Hope that helps!
Corbb

P.S. Have you visited www.Braille.org yet? Check out the first U.S.  
coin with full-size Braille on it!



On Oct 13, 2009, at 12:55 AM, J.J. Meddaugh wrote:

I've learned over the years that being totally blind presents a unique  
set of challenges not seen by thsoe with some vision. Of course the  
converse is true as well. For me, one of my biggest places where I  
feel I could improve involves spacial awareness. I'm curious to hear  
from others with any tips on ways to be better aware of their  
surroundings. How do you effectively and consciously avoid other  
people's personal space when talking or walking from place to place?
A lot of these situations seems to come up at parties, also, when it's  
sometimes difficult to figure out the best place to stand or sit and  
hold a conversation without looking awkward. And of course, as a blind  
person, if you try to walk around and talk to people, some sighted  
people will just start asking you where you are going or if you are  
looking for something. Surely there must be ways to just fit into the  
group.

Finally, some of these challenges apply when trying to network at a  
conference with unknown people. Does anyone have any tips for how to  
politely but effectively start a conversation or break into a group  
conversation between others which has already started?
I'm talking about the various networking receptions which are held by  
companies or take place at conventions and other events.

Thanks for any help.


J.J.
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