[NABS-L] Travel around campus

[Terri Stimmel]

Hello everyone,


So, I am struggling to get around on my college campus. Please 
understand, this is not a big campus at all. But, it is pretty spread 
out. I think there are maybe six buildings in all. This is just a guess 
though, really. And, some of them I will never need to visit. A couple 
of the buildings, one of which is pretty important, is up a big hill, 
and also across a busier road.


The disability services office has actually looked into putting a light 
there, and having one of those accessible walk alerts installed. I don't 
know though if they will be able to do this, or not. And, I haven't 
heard anything about it in a while.


I am totally blind, and am a cane user. I have pretty decent mobility 
skills. I have had some mobility training. A gentleman from the office 
from where my rehab counselor is from, has met with me twice, at the 
campus, to try and help me. And, I do believe that I am able to get one 
more visit with him. I will need to make sure of this, though.


I do think that I am not remembering routes as well as I once was. Maybe 
this is due to my age? I am not really sure what is going on there.

But every time I go to classes, I just can't really seem to remember 
where I am going.


There aren't a lot of landmarks outside. But in the buildings, some of 
the hallways are just layed out oddly. Even sighted friends, and staff 
have told me that they still get confused. There are benches in some 
areas, that I am able to use as reference points. But getting around 
outside is really difficult for me.


The hallways seem to have little turns in them, and seem to be somewhat 
curved, at times. It's really difficult to explain. And, every building 
seems to have multiple entrances.


Right now, I have friends that help me navigate, when they can. This has 
been a huge help for me. I use my cane, and they just give me verbal 
directions, when I need them.


However, the disability services, office, feels that I need to do more 
on my own, and not rely on others as much. I am not at all against this. 
It is just a struggle though. And, I don't know how to make this 
situation any better. Or, much different.


Has anyone else dealt with a similar situation?

If so, what were some things that worked for you?


Any thoughts, and suggestions would be very much appreciated.


Thank you,


Terri