Student uses assistive technology to present at research conference
At the 19th annual Honors Transfer Council of California (HTCC) Student Research Conference, Elina Hughes, a communications major at Citrus College, gave a presentation before a large crowd of educators and students. Her project, which focused on federal policies regarding non-combat soldiers with disabilities during the American Revolution and Civil War, intrigued the audience with its unique subject matter and well-documented research.
Equally impressive was the fact that Elina was the first student with a disability to ever present at the conference using assistive technology.
Elina had to navigate significant transitions before coming to Citrus College. An astute learner with exceptional writing ability, Elina was determined to educate others about her disability. Armed with a laptop, iPad and state-of-the-art Augmentative and Alternative Communication software designed by AssistiveWare, Elina eventually earned her way into the honors program at Citrus College.
While enrolled in HIST 107: History of the United States Before 1877, Elina distinguished herself by submitting assignments before their due dates and raising important questions in class. After reviewing a few of her essays, Elina's instructor, Brian Waddington, began to notice the level of commitment Elina showed toward her education.
When Elina turned in a paper about the United States government's policy on military members with disabilities during the American Revolution and Civil War, Mr. Waddington realized that Elina's research had a chance of being accepted at the HTCC Student Research Conference.
"I was very impressed with Elina's research," said Mr. Waddington. "As I reviewed her work, I found myself learning about content I hadn't seen covered before. It was clear to me that Elina's disability had given her a passion for research and a unique perspective into various subjects, helping to distinguish her research from others."
Mr. Waddington's instinct was correct, and Elina's research was accepted into the prestigious conference. After presenting, Elina was also given an award for outstanding achievement by the conference committee. Her story and her fortitude inspired hundreds outside Citrus College.
"Elina Hughes' dedication and resourcefulness serve as a model for all Citrus College students to emulate," stated the college superintendent/president. "The entire college community is proud of Elina's impressive accomplishment, and we look forward to seeing her academic career continue to flourish."
This article originally appeared in the May 2019 edition of the Citrus View.