ADRS Prep Zone introduces students with visual impairments to college life at UAB
By UAB Student Affairs Staff
ADRS Prep Zone participants taking a moment to pose in front of the UAB letters. Photo courtesy Richard Couch (ADRS)
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For many high school students who are blind or have low vision, the transition from high school to college can be filled with anxiety, questions, and uncertainty. This summer, a partnership between the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) helped students experience what that future could be.
From June 4-5, UAB Disability Support Services hosted the ADRS Prep Zone program, a college readiness experience designed specifically for high school students who are blind or have low vision. The program provides students with opportunities to explore campus life, build independence, learn about assistive technology, and gain exposure to academic and career pathways in higher education.
"The transition to college can be both exciting and challenging, particularly for students with disabilities who are learning to navigate accommodations and advocate for their needs,” said Samantha Wadsworth, UAB’s ADA Investigator and Faculty Advisor in the Disability Support Services office. “Programs like Prep Zone gives students the opportunity to experience a college environment before they arrive on campus, helping them build confidence, develop important skills, and feel more prepared to pursue their educational goals."
Among the three Prep Zone programs offered across Alabama this summer, UAB was the only university selected as a host site.
Students participating in the ADRS Prep Zone program touring the UAB campus. Photo courtesy UAB Student Affairs Marketing & Communications
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Experiencing College Firsthand
Participants were introduced to many of the academic and support resources available to UAB students. Faculty and staff from across the university worked together to create a comprehensive introduction to life at UAB.
The College of Arts and Sciences coordinated opportunities for students to audit college courses and connect with academic representatives. Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Catherine Danielou helped facilitate the academic experience, including arranging classroom visits and presentations. Participants attended a class taught by Professor John (Eric) Gampher and participated in a special lecture presented by Assistant Professor Lauren Wickman. Students also met with College of Arts and Sciences recruiter Emily Dill and explored campus through a Dragon Wagon tour.
Tiffany Pardue, UAB Libraries, interacting with participants during the ADRS Prep Zone experience at UAB. Photo courtesy UAB Student Affairs Marketing & Communications
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A Campus-Wide Collaboration
UAB Disability Support Services served as the primary campus coordinator, while University Recreation staff provided participants with a tour of the Campus Recreation Center, giving students an opportunity to learn about fitness, wellness, and campus recreation job opportunities available to future Blazers. UAB Marketing and Communications provided complimentary UAB-branded T-shirts for participants, helping create a welcoming campus experience.
The UAB Libraries team, led by Tiffany Purdue, coordinated meeting spaces in Sterne Library, arranged parking accommodations, and organized student welcome and support efforts throughout the campus visit.
The students were offered an authentic glimpse into college life, allowing them to experience classrooms, campus resources, and student services while interacting with faculty, staff, and current students.
Participants gather during educational sessions focused on assistive technology, college readiness, and independent living skills. Photo courtesy Richard Couch (ADRS)
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Building Confidence for the Future
For students preparing to transition from high school to higher education, exposure to campus environments can be transformative.
By providing students with opportunities to navigate campus, ask questions, and envision themselves as future college students, Prep Zone helps reduce barriers and build confidence for students preparing to take the next step in their educational journeys.
The program reflects UAB's ongoing commitment to accessibility, belonging, and student success, ensuring all students have opportunities to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
As participants left campus, many carried with them something more valuable than information — a clearer idea of how attending college could be.
Students in class during Prep Zone’s two-day program hosted at UAB. Photo courtesy UAB Student Affairs Marketing & Communications
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About Disability Support Services
UAB Disability Support Services works to ensure students with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities, programs, and services. DSS partners with students, faculty, and staff to create inclusive learning environments that support academic success and personal development.
For more information about Disability Support Services, visit:
www.uab.edu/dss