A Proud Alum who is Equipped to Problem Solve and Step Outside of his Comfort Zone

Nico is a proud alum of four of our summer programs – Carroll Kids, Carroll Teens, Youth In Transition, and Real World of Work Experience, and most recently, he completed our 20-week Independent Living Program. Nico was born blind caused by Retinopathy of Prematurity, which can happen when a baby is born early. Nico grew up in Panama and traveled to Newton for 10 years for Carroll Center programs before moving to the area in 2022.

Making friends is one of Nico’s favorite things about coming to the Carroll Center. As an aspiring sportscaster, he was a rockstar as master of ceremonies for the Real World of Work Experience talent show.  The room was electric with the chemistry and rapport Nico shared with each student and there were an abundance of smiles and laughter thanks to Nico’s engaging style and the friendships he built.

Technology instruction has been pivotal to Nico’s learning, and he credits the Carroll Center with transforming his life through technology. “It has been eye opening to learn about so many apps I had no idea about and the instructors are incredibly patient,” says Nico. “Even if you feel like quitting, they help you to just keep going.”

Nico has also gained confidence and stepped outside of his comfort zone through Carroll Center programs. When he and his summer program classmates traveled to Boston and temporarily lost their way, he used the Orientation & Mobility skills he learned at the Carroll Center and got them out of their predicament.

Nico’s goals are to gain greater independence with technology and study sports broadcasting and journalism in college. Many people told him after the talent show that he has a great career as a broadcaster or journalist ahead of him. He is well on his way!