Royal National College for the Blind is 'life-changing'

My name is Sonali and I'm a third year student at the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC). I have studied a wide variety of subjects such as Audio Media Production, Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), and three business courses.

Pictured: Sonali working in the polytunnel, potting up some plants
  
I have learned a lot of valuable skills from studying these subjects, for example from doing an EPQ which was about my religion Jainism, I learnt how to Harvard reference websites, how to check their reliability and how to lead a discussion.

From studying Audio Music Production, I learnt basics of Logic Pro and microphones. I also got the chance to compose music as well produce covers of already existing songs with my friends. I like to sing and play the piano in my spare time.

One of the business courses I studied involved working in a real office environment, therefore doing jobs that are done in the real business world like using office equipment and taking meeting minutes.

I grow, repot, and nurture plants in the RNC garden with a couple of volunteers every week. I also check on the plants daily to see if need feeding or watering, and do this when required. These plants are then sold to the RNC staff and students, as well as the public. During these sales, I make notes of how many plants are being sold, and how much money is being made.

I've received  an unconditional offer from Birkbeck University to study a Business and Sustainability course which will enable me to pursue a career as an environmental sustainability consultant.

Being at RNC has been a life changing experience for me as I have been able to make close friends which is something I find difficult. I have achieved things that I never thought were possible like completing my EPQ due to the high level of writing. I have developed confidence and learnt to believe in myself more from having amazing teachers who believe in me.