The Carroll Center offers a range of programs and services designed to help students who are blind or have low vision successfully transition to higher education and independent living. Whether students are preparing to enter college for the first time or adjusting to vision loss while pursuing their education, we provide personalized support to help them build the skills and confidence needed to succeed both on campus and beyond.

From navigating a college campus and using public transportation to strengthening technology skills and preparing for future employment, The Carroll Center equips students with the tools they need to achieve greater independence and academic success. Our experienced team works with students, families, colleges and universities, and state vocational rehabilitation agencies to develop individualized plans that address each student’s unique goals and needs.

College Readiness Programs

Designed for young adults transitioning to college, our college readiness programs provide comprehensive training to help participants build confidence and independence for academic success. Students will apply skills in real-world settings and develop classroom skills for greater independence.

These programs are ideal for students who plan to attend college but are not familiar with city or campus living. If the student plans to attend college in the Boston are, they will be exposed to their college campus during the training and learn about resources in the area.

Training includes:

• Orientation & Mobility
• Assistive Technology
• Daily Living Skills
• Social & Communication Skills
• Braille & Tactile Literacy
• Adjustment & Self-Advocacy Skills

Room & board, as well as a free laptop are provided for eligible participants. Out-of-state students are welcome.

College Orientation & Mobility Instruction

The Carroll Center provides Orientation & Mobility instruction for colleges throughout Massachusetts. Our Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS) have extensive experience in assisting college students to orient quickly and effectively to their new college campus. We serve both in-state and out-of-state students attending colleges and universities throughout Massachusetts and select out-of-state institutions.

Services can include:

• Assisting students in receiving timely information about dormitory and classroom assignments to facilitate familiarization prior to the start of the semester.
• Familiarizing students with all indoor and outdoor routes and destinations of need, including the dormitory, classrooms, student union, dining hall, library, campus police, faculty and department offices, shuttle bus stops, and more.
• Establishing safety guidelines, with the help of campus police, for travel at night and/or in areas where safety is a concern.
• Providing tactile and low vision markings, as needed, for mailboxes, lockers, laundry machines, and more.
• Maintaining contact with the student, as needed, for future familiarization work.
• Facilitating the identification of and introduction to key personnel in various departments (i.e., the coordinator of disability services, dining services director, security supervisor, etc.).

To request Orientation and Mobility instruction for a current or incoming student with visual impairment or blindness, please fill out our Request for Orientation and Mobility Services form linked below.

Computing for College Summer Program

This 3-week summer program helps student elevate their computer skills needed to become more independent and successful in higher education. Students will receive training in Windows, popular Microsoft and Google applications, web browsing and online research, assistive technology tools, course management systems, and other topics critical for academic success.

Students will also visit local college campuses and participate in sessions on college-related topics, including strategies for working with college disability services to obtain accessible materials, accessing research databases, navigating college social life, and more. In addition, students will enjoy activities and field trips around Boston with their peers.

Summer Internships

During the summer break, college students seeking to gain job experience are provided with an internship in the Greater Boston area and housing on a college campus, thus affording them the opportunity to live independently and gain valuable work experiences. Placements exist in a wide variety of work environments within commuting distance from the Center.

Sample of Internship Sites:

• Healthcare & Science: Dive into biotech, health research, or senior living.
• Arts & Humanities: Support local museums or engage with music programs.
• Non-Profit & Community Services: Get involved in social programs and community outreach.
• Business & Professional Services: Gain exposure to law, finance, or the retail industry.
• Hospitality: Gain hands-on experience in hotels, restaurants, and other customer service environments.
• Blind Rehabilitation & Education: Work directly with clients to deliver specialized instruction and support.