Learning. Leading. Connecting.
Participation in the AFB Scholars Program is more than receiving a scholarship—it’s an immersive experience in leadership development, mentorship, and community engagement. Each scholar joins a national network of blind and low vision students and professionals who are shaping the future of inclusion through their studies and careers.
AFB Scholars gain:
- Personalized mentorship from AFB leaders and professionals with lived experience.
- Professional exposure through participation in a national conference.
- Growth reflection through a year-end progress report highlighting academic and professional achievements.
These activities are designed to help scholars build confidence, strengthen networks, and prepare for leadership in their chosen fields.
Mentorship Engagement
The AFB Scholars Program mentoring experience fosters meaningful connections between scholars and AFB leaders with lived experience. Mentorship supports academic, professional, and personal growth while building scholars’ confidence and networks within the blind and low vision community.
Expectations & Commitments
AFB Scholars and their assigned AFB mentors will meet at minimum twice a semester (once per quarter) for at least one hour each for the duration of the Scholar’s participation in the program. Scholars are expected to:
- Be communicative and prompt in support of scheduling and planning the mentorship sessions.
- Set and pursue clear goals for the mentorship as well as sharing needs, expectations, and challenges transparently.
- Come prepared for mentoring sessions with questions, updates on progress, and topics for discussion.
- Actively participate in discussions and follow through on action items.
- Be open to feedback, new ideas, and exploring different perspectives.
Upon successful completion of the mentorship, the scholar’s mentor will provide a letter of recommendation for their professional portfolio. Scholars must complete all mentorship requirements to remain eligible for renewal of their award.
Peer Networking & Support
To foster collaboration and a sense of community among participants, each AFB Scholar will be paired with another recipient as a peer buddy for ongoing correspondence throughout the academic year.
This connection encourages:
- Shared learning experiences: an opportunity to exchange insights, study tips, and professional perspectives.
- Mutual support: a peer sounding board for challenges and successes throughout the program year.
- Networking opportunities: a foundation for building long-term professional relationships within the blind and low vision community.
AFB believes that scholars learn best when they learn with and from each other, and this peer connection ensures that every participant benefits from the collective strength of the cohort.
Annual Conference Participation
To expand professional networks and exposure to the broader community, each AFB Scholar participates in one approved professional conference per scholarship year. Scholars attend alongside AFB staff members to ensure a guided, enriching experience.
Note: All approved travel, accommodations, registration, and per diem expenses are covered by AFB.
Expectations & Commitments
AFB Scholars will submit their preferred conference from a pre-approved list. Scholars should be mindful of the timing in relation to their other responsibilities and responsible for making their own arrangements for absence with their academic institutions. Scholars will be expected to:
- Be proactive and prompt in conference selection, adhering to all guidelines during planning.
- Work with your AFB mentor to establish clear goals in advance of the conference.
- Coordinate a meet-up with AFB staff also attending the conference.
- Attend at least one networking activity or event to foster meaningful connections and enhance your professional network.
- Submit a written reflection to your mentor within 2-weeks of the conference, evaluating your participation based on your established goals and requirements.
Completion of the conference participation requirement is necessary for scholarship renewal.
Progress & Reflection Report
At the end of each academic year, AFB Scholars submit a progress report summarizing their academic achievements, professional development, and growth within their scholarship’s area of focus.
This reflection allows scholars to:
- Document progress toward their goals.
- Identify personal and professional growth areas.
- Demonstrate alignment with the mission and values of AFB.
Details about report length, format, and submission deadlines are available on each scholarship’s application page.
Ready to Apply?
Choose your path and start your AFB Scholars journey:
Apply for the AFB Science & Technology Scholarship
