{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Introducing Preston : Two Paths, One Team: Meet the Peer Ambassadors of State Services for the Blind","description":"What does it look like to be a blind high school student who\u2019s busy, motivated, and dreaming big? In this episode of Blind Abilities, meet Preston\u2014a 15-year-old sophomore, honors and AP student, award-winning speech and debate competitor, musician, and newly selected Peer Ambassador with State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Preston shares what it\u2019s really like balancing challenging classes, extracurriculars, and leadership, while also learning strong study habits and time management skills. From placing second in the state in congressional debate to performing in choirs and playing jazz piano, Preston proves that blindness doesn\u2019t limit ambition. He also talks about the importance of community, Expanded Core Curriculum skills, and connecting with other blind and visually impaired students through camps, events, and peer leadership. His excitement about bringing students together\u2014and helping others succeed\u2014makes this conversation inspiring, relatable, and full of possibilities for teens figuring out their own path forward. &amp;nbsp; This episode is part of a two-part Peer Ambassador spotlight series. If you like hearing how blind teens are stepping into leadership, building community, and planning for the future, be sure to check out the companion episode featuring the other Peer Ambassador. Together, these conversations offer two unique perspectives\u2014and double the inspiration. &amp;nbsp; To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205. &amp;nbsp; Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB &amp;nbsp; Full Transcript Thanks for listening! ","author_name":"Blind Abilities","author_url":"https:\/\/www.BlindAbilities.com","html":"<iframe title=\"Libsyn Player\" style=\"border: none\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/39447300\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/forward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/88AA3C\/\" height=\"90\" width=\"600\" scrolling=\"no\"  allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen><\/iframe>","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/assets.libsyn.com\/secure\/item\/39447300"}