[NAGDU] Glad to be on this list!

[Sidney Horn]

Hi!
My name is Sidney, and I'm 19-years-old. I decided to join this list because ever since late August, into September, I've been doing tons of research on guide dogs. I even talked to some friends about them and my Mom told me since I am going off to college next year at a university, to reconsider the idea of having one. Now my parents weren't trying to push me by any means, but they at least wanted me to do some more looking into it.
Starting in September, I initiated an application with The Seeing Eye. I quickly got a response from them, filled out the paperwork, got my letter of recommendations sent in from certain people, and then had my interview with their manager with admissions in October.
I had a juno walk and interview with one of their instructors back in December. His name is Chris Mattoon.
I did also look into other schools as well, like Guide Dogs for the Blind and GDF Guide Dog Foundation.) While yes, I did like their programs, I wanted to stick with Seeing Eye. They are the oldest school, they were quick to respond and get me in, and they definitely seem like they know what their doing.
As for the other schools, they had extremely long wait lists, and I'll be starting at a university in the fall of this year actually.
I've watched lots of videos and read up on lots of things about guide dogs. While they're furry little fluffy guides, they also make wonderful companions, and that is just what I need with going off to college.
On the flip side, though, I have definitely heard lots about rideshare denials... I'm in a Facebook group called Guide Dog Handlers Network. I joined to hear about others experiences, pros, cons, concerns, ETC.
I have 2 dogs at home, but they're just pet dogs. Not working dogs. I do realize and understand there's a major difference there.
How have all of your experiences been with your dogs? I feel like denials can happen anywhere, but it seems like you see them more often in a bigger city. Is that right?
Sidney

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