U-ACCESS A Newsletter about Disability Issues at the Unviersity of Chicago
Volume 5, Issue 5
Spring/Summer Quarter 2008
See the World: the Study Abroad Programs at Chicago
Many students, a critical facet of their educational experience at the University of Chicago is the opportunity to study abroad. Whether to perfect a foreign language, study ancient architecture, or experience a culture unlike their own, students often find new insight far from home. By fostering personal growth, intercultural development, and an increase in professional and academic skills, study abroad has the potential to positively changing students' lives forever.
Students with disabilities may wonder if there are study abroad programs that will fit their special needs. If you are a student with a disability, and disability accommodations were extended to you, consider this advice in your planning to study abroad: first, consult with your academic adviser to plan a program of courses that will place you in a strong position for overseas study; and second, consider consulting with the Coordinator for Students with Disabilities to assist you and your adviser in determining your in-class accommodation abroad.
When you've decided you're ready to meet the challenges of study abroad, ask yourself a few key questions: 1) In what region of the world do I want to study?; 2)Is there a language I would like to perfect?; and 3)How will study abroad contribute to my academic goals?
Finally, seek out advice and assistance from a Study Abroad Coordinator in the University's Study Abroad Office. They can help to find the program that is right for you. Bon Voyage!
By Elizabeth Fulmer, Social Service Administration Assistant Coordinator
Vendor's Corner
Caption First has been providing Communication Access Real-time Translation (CART) and captioning services since 1989 in the United States. Instead of trying to reach the entire deaf and hard-of-hearing communities all at once through television, we started working with people on an individual and small group basis. We now provide CART at many different events including counseling sessions, meetings, teleconferences, seminars, classrooms and conventions. We provide service on-site and remotely, ensuring coverage almost anywhere.
Caption First's innovative approach to real-time translation also offers English/Spanish Interpreting, CART/Captioning, and Webcast Integration of remote CART and captioning services.
Caption First is known for it's large company capacity with the attentiveness of a small company. Besides our full time staff, we have over 50 real-time writers that work with Caption First on a regular basis. We work as a team to level the playing field for our clients and achieve our motto: "You are successful if you can help your customer succeed." For more information about Caption First, visit www.captionfirst.com or (800) 825-5234.
By Joe Delulio, Account Manager of Caption First
The Postsecondary Education Program Network (PEPNet)
Mary is deaf and very excited about attending college in the fall. While her intended college is very eager to serve Mary, they are nervous about securing and managing interpreting services. Where can they go for assistance? PEPNet!
PEPNet is a national network of four regional centers that are supported by contracts with the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, and the Office of Special Education Programs. In the Midwest, PEPNet-Midwest (formerly Midwest Center for Postsecondary Outreach) provides resources, information, in-service training, and expertise to enhance educational opportunities for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families.
PEPNet works with Colleges/Universities, Secondary Education Programs, Community Rehabilitation Programs, Continuing Education Programs, Adult Basic Education Programs and Vocational and Technical Training Programs.
At the local level, regional Outreach Specialists are the gateway to shared knowledge and best practices. The four national regional centers work collaboratively to provide a broad variety resources and training activities.
By Ginny Chiaverina, Associate Director PEPNet-Midwest
