Interview with Jane Constance

An interview with Jane Constance: Law Student, Singer and Secretary for the Disabled Student Society

Jane Constance

(Photograph of Jane Constance)

Tell me a bit about yourself:

My name is Jane Constance, I am born blind. I come from Mauritius, little island situated in the middle of the Indian ocean. I am actually studying Law at UCLan as I intend to be a lawyer to fight for the rights of persons with disabilities.

Why did you choose to study at UCLan?:

I have chosen to study at UCLan after researching and finding out that this university is a safe place for disabled students; where each and everyone is empowered and supported regardless of his disability.

What was your first impression of the University?:

When I reached Preston after 12 hours flight, I was impressed by all the facilities provided for disabled students. My technical advisor and inclusive advisor are both very kind and willing to help. I couldn't imagine myself walking around campus without the unconditional support of the well-being team. Since I was not exposed to white canes in my country, I had the chance to be provided with Mobility training courses to help me moving around campus independently. Of course, it will take time to learn where everything is situated but determination is the key to success!

What is university life like for you?:

Getting to know people wasn't that hard for me. After spending two weeks at university, I already joined 5 societies, where I easily found my place between sighted people. I personally admire the SU as everyone is open minded and my disability was not a source of difficulty for any societies I joined!

However, uni life as a blind student is not always easy. The most difficult challenge I am actually facing is the cooking aspect. Due to my blindness, I can't take the risk to try in cooking something and burn myself. So for the moment, I have no choice to buy ready - made meals in groceries stores. I am still searching for a better solution.

How does disability effect your life?:

My main passion is singing; through my songs, I convey messages of positivity and perseverance to inspire disabled persons like myself; who are facing daily challenges and who sometimes feel alone in this world, where some sighted people struggle to understand our disability. Some of them see our blindness as a misfortune while others feel pitiful for us. One day In Mauritius, I was in a shopping centre. A lady stopped me and said:

"What happened to your eyes?"

I was a bit shocked and replied to her that I am blind. She seemed surprised and sadly answered:

"Oh, it's so sad; if I could, I would have given you my eyes."

I wanted to laugh... This is a clear example of ignorance and fear for the disabled. People are generally afraid of differences; not only concerning disability but also LGBT+ or BME groups (Black, Minority, Ethnic).

Another day, I went to the cinema with a friend and a guy next to me said:

"Do you listen to the television?" I was like... "No, I watch television! What's the purpose of changing common words to adapt them to my situation?"

In conclusion, Its better to take people's remarks as jokes instead of being offended!

Any last words?:

Having a disability should not be a barrier. Humour, makes it possible to de-dramatise daily situations and behaviours; this can help make your disability a strength. Believe in yourself, believe in your dreams and make perseverance be your keyword.

Be proud to be who you are!