Persistence Brings Success for Visually Impaired Student. Graduating with a university degree is a major achievement for any student. For 25-year-old Robyn Waters, it is also a powerful story of courage, resilience, and self-belief. Born with microphthalmia and blind since birth, Robyn recently completed her Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing, proving that determination can overcome even the toughest challenges.
Discovering a Passion for Storytelling
Robyn’s journey into creative writing began during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has always been imaginative and deeply connected to books and stories. For her, storytelling became a way to understand human emotions and escape the isolation that often comes with living with a disability.
Writing offered comfort during lockdown. It also gave her clarity. She realised that creative writing was not just a hobby. It was her true calling.
A Turning Point During the Pandemic
Before COVID-19, Robyn was focused on music. She trained as an operatic singer and was preparing for her Trinity Grade 8 examination. Her original plan was to continue music studies in London.
The pandemic changed everything. Lockdown gave her time to pause and reflect. She understood that music was no longer the path she wanted to follow. Writing helped her cope during that uncertain period. That is when she made the brave decision to change direction and pursue a degree in creative writing.
Why Unisa Was the Right Choice
Choosing Unisa was a natural decision for Robyn. The university’s strong support system for students with disabilities played a key role. Studying online allowed her to learn at her own pace and in an environment that suited her needs.
She received exceptional support from the Advocacy and Resource Centre for Students with Disabilities (ARCSWiD). Her study materials were already converted into accessible formats compatible with her tablet. She also benefited from book subsidies and extra time during examinations. These accommodations made her academic journey smoother and more inclusive.
Taking One Step at a Time
Robyn believes perseverance and courage are essential for success. She explains that courage is needed at every stage. From submitting the application to completing assignments and sitting for exams, each step requires commitment.
She also highlights the importance of asking for help. Robyn stresses that refusing support does not prove independence. Instead, it can hold students back, especially during stressful exam periods.
Like many students with disabilities, she faced moments when quitting felt easier. What kept her going was remembering why she started. That purpose helped her push through difficult days.
A Moment of Pride and Achievement
Standing on stage to receive her degree was deeply emotional for Robyn. It was a moment filled with gratitude, relief, and pride. Every challenge, every setback, and every difficult assignment finally felt worth it.
Her message is clear and powerful. Disability, or any challenge in life, does not define limits. It only becomes a barrier if you allow it to be one.
FAQs
Who is Robyn Waters?
Robyn Waters is a visually impaired student who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing. She was born blind due to microphthalmia.
What inspired her to study creative writing?
Her passion for storytelling and reading, combined with reflection during the COVID-19 pandemic, led her to choose creative writing.
Did Robyn study a different subject before?
Yes. She previously studied music and trained as an operatic singer before changing her academic path.
Why did she choose Unisa?
Unisa offered strong disability support, flexible online learning, accessible study materials, and exam accommodations.
What support did she receive as a disabled student?
She received accessible study guides, book subsidies, exam concessions, and support from ARCSWiD.
What advice does Robyn give to other students?
She encourages students to stay courageous, persevere, ask for help when needed, and remember why they started their journey.
Conclusion
Robyn Waters’ story is a reminder that success is not about perfect conditions. It is about persistence, courage, and belief in yourself. With the right support and determination, barriers can be broken and dreams can be achieved. Her journey continues to inspire students everywhere, especially those facing disabilities, to keep moving forward one step at a time.
