By: Mark Rawleigh
Throughout my post-secondary studies at Mount Royal University, I was the lucky recipient of three scholarships from CNIB – totalling nearly $5,000 over five and a half years.
Having Retinitis Pigmentosa, my eyes get easily fatigued, which made having a job while attending university nearly impossible for me. The scholarship money I received helped ease some of the financial burdens associated with post-secondary education as I was able to solely focus on my studies during the school year while only working during my summer breaks.
Being unable to drive also meant that living on or near campus was imperative, but with that came the extra cost of rent. Scholarship money helped with my living expenses and also allowed me to purchase a new laptop fitted with assistive tech for school.
While my university degrees did take me a bit longer to complete than it might have taken someone fully sighted, with the support of CNIB’s scholarship program, I was able to take on university at a pace that worked for me.
I encourage everyone pursuing further education, whether through university, a trade school, an apprenticeship, or placement, to apply for a CNIB Scholarship. The money can help support you with tuition, course materials, living expenses, technology – it’s really up to you!
CNIB scholarships, bursaries and other external awards can help support your educational and professional aspirations. To learn more about these opportunities and how you can apply for them, visit cnib.ca/scholarships.