Seth Acero '25, pictured on the right, with the rest of the tutors and mentors of the 2023 Edition of the WLAIP.

As the sun sets on my transformative summer, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible experience I had as an intern at the Austin Lighthouse for the Blind and a writing consultant for the Wabash Liberal Arts Immersion Program. This blog post serves as my heartfelt tribute to all who made this journey possible and an insight into what I’ve learned. Working at the Austin Lighthouse for the Blind opened my eyes to a world of resilience and strength. The organization’s commitment to empowering visually impaired individuals inspires me daily. Through assisting in grant writing and Mission Services, I learned that disabilities should never be perceived as barriers but as opportunities to adapt and excel. On the other hand, my role as a writing consultant for the Wabash Liberal Arts Immersion Program challenged me to embrace my passion for words and storytelling. Guiding my fellow peers in their writing projects and witnessing their growth filled me with immense satisfaction. My supervisor at the Austin Lighthouse for the Blind, Mr. Vincent Boyd, was an invaluable mentor. With his permission, I’d like to share his encouraging words: “Our interns play a crucial role in shaping the lives of our visually impaired community members.

Acero '25 discussing the day's reading with Dr. Crystal Benedicks, one of the English Professors for the WLAIP.

Witnessing their growth and dedication is truly heartwarming. Our intern Seth exhibited exceptional empathy and professionalism, impacting everyone they interacted with.” I sincerely thank the generous donors who supported the Wabash-funded internship program. Without their help, this invaluable experience would not have been possible. Additionally, I want to thank my supervisors, colleagues, and professors for their guidance and support throughout this journey. While every internship has unique challenges, this blog post is not the place to criticize or dwell on the negatives. Instead, I want to celebrate the growth, experiences, and friendships that
bloomed during my time at the Austin Lighthouse for the Blind and the Wabash Liberal Arts Immersion Program. To my fellow Wabash students reading this, I encourage you to explore the college’s vast array of internship opportunities. Embrace the unfamiliar, and you may find yourself on a path of fulfillment you never knew existed. As this chapter of my life ends, I carry cherished memories and invaluable lessons. This internship was a journey that shaped not only my academic and professional trajectory but also my understanding of humanity’s boundless potential. Thank you all for being a part of my adventure!