I am registered blind because I don’t see well out of my right eye. Text needs to be made bigger for me to read it. Also, when I’m out and about, I can trip up if the ground is uneven.

When I was at school I used large print books and a special device in the library which enlarged the text in books for me on a screen. I got bullied quite a lot. When I was given large print in class I didn’t want to use it because I didn’t want to look different. But I managed to do well in my GCSEs and I got 5 Cs.

I went on to Plumpton College after leaving school to do a BTEC level 2 in animal care. College was much more relaxed and the teachers don’t have to tell you off so much as everyone’s there because they want to be. The teachers at college have been very supportive about my VI (visual impairment) but you do need to speak up about what help and equipment you need. I got a special laptop to use. Connexions 360 advisers were also very helpful and they can talk to a teacher on your behalf if you don’t feel able to. I love learning new things on my course and just hanging out with friends during breaks.

My advice to anyone else with a VI moving on to college would be don’t be afraid to ask for help and take advantages of the benefits that are available for you.

Sam, aged 17, from Lewes