http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-877115.mp3
Newark, NJ – Jennifer is a PhD candidate in biomedical engineering at Columbia University who has a rare form of epilepsy. She had brain surgery to treat her condition several years ago and was so fascinated by the process that she decided to pursue an advanced degree to study the brain. Columbia University has installed incandescent lighting in the labs (because fluorescent lighting is problematic for her) and allows her to set her own schedule. These minor accommodations have helped Jennifer excel in school. She was asked to participate as a presenter for the MIND Alliance program, which helps minority students with disabilities transition into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics academic and career tracks. In her presentation, Jennifer encourages students to ask for accommodations and to not let challenges hold them back.