This is a talking point published in the Hereford Times on October 24.

Sonali Shah, student at the Royal National College for the Blind

I’M a third year student at the Royal National College for the blind (RNC). I have studied a wide variety of subjects such as audio music production, extended project qualification (EPQ), and three business courses.

I have learned a lot of valuable skills from studying these subjects, for example from doing an EPQ which was about my religion Jainism, I learnt how to Harvard reference websites, how to check their reliability and how to lead a discussion.

From studying audio music production, I learnt basics of Logic Pro and microphones. I also got the chance to compose music as well produce covers of already existing songs with my friends. I like to sing and play the piano in my spare time.

One of the business courses I studied involved working in a real office environment, therefore doing jobs that are done in the real business world like using office equipment and taking meeting minutes.

I grow, repot, and nurture plants in the RNC garden with a couple of volunteers every week. I also check on the plants daily to see if need feeding/watering, and so do this when required.

These plants are then sold to the RNC staff and students, as well as the public. During these sales, I make notes of how many plants are being sold, and how much money is being made.

I got an unconditional offer from Birkbeck University to study a business and sustainability course which will enable me to pursue a career as an environmental sustainability consultant. 

ALSO READ:

What are your thoughts?

You can send a letter to the editor to have your say by clicking here.

Letters should not exceed 250 words and local issues take precedence.

Being at the RNC has been a life-changing experience for me as I have been able to make close friends which is something I find difficult.

I have achieved things that I never thought were possible like completing my EPQ due to the high level of writing.

I have developed confidence and learnt to believe in myself more from having amazing teachers who believe in me.