Two SUNY Oswego students, Luiz Perez-Rivera and Elizabeth Mule, were selected to serve as representatives in the new SUNY Disability Ambassador program, an initiative aimed at promoting accessibility and inclusivity across SUNY campuses. 

Students with disabilities from across the SUNY system have been selected to participate, hoping to provide a wide range of assistance for those who need it. Perez-Rivera and Mule meet monthly with this network of students to discuss accessibility points, and what campus support can be provided.

Students were able to choose an initiative they felt was in alignment with their interests and expertise. Perez-Rivera, a sophomore majoring in human resource management, is passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion. Over the fall 2024 semester, he worked with the Counseling Services Center; the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; and the currently forming Disability Pride group.

“It’s tough being the odd man out,” Perez-Rivera said, reflecting on his experiences as a visually impaired student. “This role gives me an opportunity to bring more opportunities to people who might feel left out, to help them feel included in a good environment.”

Mule, a global and international studies major, was inspired by a spring break course in Italy during her freshman year to help students with disabilities participate in study abroad programs. She now works within the Office of International Education and Programs, holding weekly office hours to answer questions students with disabilities may have about these opportunities and to offer advice.

“Students can come into the study abroad office and ask me questions and stuff, kind of clear stuff up for them and show them that it's possible you could study abroad,” said Mule. “I'm really excited to help calm people's nerves when it comes to studying abroad with learning differences or other needs.” 

Mule, who is neurodivergent and visually impaired, said it can be anxiety-inducing for students with disabilities to study abroad due to unknown factors and worries about accommodations. For her, she was especially worried about getting through TSA with her medication and having trouble reading key information on signs, pamphlets, restaurant menus and other materials.

“I was talking with my mom, and she said that they'll be okay if you get a note from your doctor saying it's prescribed and you need [the medication], and that really helped me calm down. I had, I think, five copies of that note in my pockets when I was in the airport because I was just so scared,” said Mule.

Breaking down barriers

Perez-Rivera hopes to create opportunities where individuals with and without disabilities can engage in shared activities to better understand each other’s experiences.

“For example, as a gamer, I’ve often been asked how I manage to play video games with my visual impairment. I want to create similar experiences that break down perceived barriers and challenge biases,” said Perez-Rivera.

Reflecting on the importance of the program, Perez-Rivera emphasized the key role of exposure and interaction.

“Often, biases stem from a lack of exposure to people with disabilities. Growing up, many students with disabilities are separated into special education classes, which limits interaction,” he said. “Programs like this can break down those barriers.”

Mule emphasized the importance of peer-to-peer interaction in the program, explaining that some students may feel nervous reaching out to higher-ups or administration for support.

“I feel like it's much easier for students to reach out to students than it is for students to reach out to admin or higher-ups in education… so I think it’s really important to have student ambassadors specifically,” said Mule.

Perez-Rivera and Mule will continue their work with the SUNY Disability Ambassador program in the spring 2025 semester, hoping to expand opportunities for students with disabilities.

“Accessibility is about creating a level playing field,” Perez-Rivera said. “It’s not about giving people an advantage, it’s about ensuring everyone has what they need to succeed.”