Maria arrived at Flinders anxious about studying abroad as a blind student. What she found was an environment where accessibility was real. From alternative assessments to supportive staff, these helped her achieve academic success and are inspiring her to drive change back home. Featured in the lead-up to Be Fearless, Be Me – Inclusive Celebration Day.
I will never forget my time at Flinders University, because it was here that I experienced a truly inclusive learning environment. The staff and faculty helped me realize that students with disabilities can achieve the same learning outcomes as their peers when given suitable activities and assessment methods. They inspired me to believe that disability is not an excuse to fall behind, because they provided every reasonable adjustment I needed to succeed.
Before coming to Australia as an international student with disability, I was anxious. It was my first time studying at an international university, and I worried the educational system would be very different from my home country. I feared some assessments might not be suitable for me. But those fears disappeared within days of arriving at Flinders. Staff and faculty made me feel I belonged. My opinions were valued, and I was given the adjustments I needed to participate fully in academic and social activities.
One experience stands out. In one topic, the assessment was to create a poster. As a totally blind student, this was daunting. I approached my Topic Coordinator and asked for an alternative assessment. Without hesitation, she suggested an essay on the practical application of the theory, an adjustment that allowed me to demonstrate the same learning outcomes. To my surprise, I earned a High Distinction. That moment taught me never to hesitate to ask for help. With accessible support and reasonable adjustments, I went on to achieve distinctions in several topics and an HD in my 9-unit literature review.
These experiences inspired me to make a difference in my home country. As part of my Australia Awards Scholarship re-entry action plan, I am developing a module on inclusive learning environments for students with visual impairment. Today, I am actively engaged with Australia Awards Alumni and inclusive education advocacy groups, working to implement this plan. None of this would have been possible without the support of Flinders University. Thank you, Flinders, for helping me to be fearless, to be me!
Maria’s story shows how practical adjustments and genuine support can transform a student’s experience and spark change far beyond the classroom. Join us for Be Fearless, Be Me – Inclusive Celebration Day as we celebrate students like Maria and commit to making inclusion a reality for everyone.
Event Details:
📅 Date: 3rd December, 2025
📍 Location: Plaza/Student Hub, Bedford Park Campus
🎉 Hosted by: International Student Services (ISS), Flinders University Students with Disabilities Association (FUSDA) and the Career Readiness team
Want to read more inspiring journeys? Explore Raymond’s, Ken’s and Faith’s story as part of our Be Fearless, Be Me series.