Even before I was admitted to my dream university – the Faculty of Law – I met with the faculty’s disability contact person to discuss what studying there would be like as someone with a severe visual impairment. I am legally blind: I use a white cane to get around, but I can still perceive the outlines of large objects, silhouettes of people, read highly enlarged text, and distinguish basic colors.

The faculty’s contact person informed me that other students with visual impairments were already studying there and that the faculty was well prepared to support them. Before my studies began, I was offered an orientation walk around the faculty building, which was extremely helpful.

After I was admitted, the hardest part was getting the necessary information about how the study system works (lectures, seminars, etc.). I contacted the Carolina Centre, which operates under the Charles University Rectorate, where I received contact information for two law students involved in the study assistance service. These students helped me get oriented in the study system (the schedule, choosing teachers, what to look out for, etc.).

I was also connected with a student who had a severe visual impairment himself and who shared valuable first-hand experience about studying with a visual disability. Looking back, I consider this incredibly beneficial, because no one who hasn’t experienced a similar condition can help you in quite the same way. Students with disabilities have to cope not only with the usual challenges of university life but also very specific ones – such as converting textbooks to digital formats, the willingness of teachers to work with students with disabilities, the technical equipment available at the faculty, and more.

When registering for classes and exams, I used the assistance of senior students who were part of the Student Assistance program. It’s important not to be afraid to contact individual departments and explain your situation – communication and people make all the difference.

The study material digitization service helped me immensely throughout my studies. All necessary materials were converted into electronic format so I could read them using magnification software or – most importantly – with text-to-speech output.

The faculty is well equipped: the library has a digital magnifier and computers with the necessary software, such as screen readers and magnifiers. It is also possible to apply for a study aid – for example, a laptop or tablet. The university even offers sports courses for students with disabilities, including one-off events such as cross-country skiing courses and regular activities like swimming.

During your studies, you can also arrange individual accommodations for exams. If an exam is written, it can be taken either orally or on a computer, and the same applies to in-term tests. Extra time is, of course, available for completing exams.

Throughout your studies, a contact person is available to help with anything you need.

You can also receive study assistance from a fellow student – someone from your class who signs up for this service and even receives a scholarship for their help – or from students from other faculties or years. Examples of this assistance include preparing summaries, accompanying you around campus, and providing personal support. Personally, I used assistance for sports activities (e.g., Pilates) as well as for enrolling in subjects and exam dates.

I warmly recommend studying at Charles University to anyone with a visual impairment – there’s nothing to be afraid of!