Centralight

I am Central: Lauren Presutti Freshman • Sociology Did you realize that this summer you will make CMU history as the first student with a physical disability – who uses a power wheelchair – to study abroad? I didn't realize that when I began planning for this experience, but now I truly have an opportunity to prove to others that I don't want to limit myself further, but instead, I want to continue to exceed all expectations people have of students with disabilities. How did you get interested? In early October my Honors Program director, Phame Camarena, devoted an entire two-hour class period to the importance of studying abroad. About a week after that, I was around the Honors office when I spoke with Phame, who supported and encouraged me to pursue this opportunity, regardless of the fact that I have a physical disability. What's been your biggest challenge? While most students are concerned about the language, food and other cultural differences, those were the least of my worries. My main priority is to guarantee myself mobility around the area once I arrive and ensure that everything, including the flight, transportation, housing and program excursions, will all be planned carefully for me. Why Australia? I think Australia was always my first choice. The study abroad program that I have chosen has an accessible location for me and it does correspond with my major. Ironically, the coast of Western Australia is one of the furthest possible locations available to students. I literally could not travel any further away from home, but I know that it will be an adventure unlike anything else. Are you nervous? I understand that taking this on could potentially be a challenging experience for me because of all of the physically difficult things that I will inevitably encounter. But I also understand that this could be the most life-changing, rewarding experience that I will ever have the opportunity to experience. • alumni.cmich.edu/centralight for more 4040 centralight summer '11

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