As a new day begins at PolyU, students stream across the campus, which is bustling with classes and conversations. Among them, a familiar figure glides by in his wheelchair – Vincent Shih (Vincent), a third-year computer science student whose calm determination adds quiet strength to the lively campus atmosphere.

Diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) when he was just a year old, Vincent lost almost all limb movement, retaining only limited motion in his hands. Yet his spirit has never been confined. Each day, he moves between classes with his mother by his side. Together, they navigate the busy corridors of university life – partners in resilience, courage, and discovery.

Stepping into a new world

For Vincent, university represented more than just the next step in his education; it was a leap into independence. Gone were the familiar teachers and classmates from his special school who had accompanied him through primary and secondary years. At PolyU, every class brought new faces, expectations, and challenges. “It was overwhelming at first,” he recalls. “But it also opened my world. I’ve come to enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds and cultures; it’s changed how I see things.”

His passion for computing has long been his anchor. Among peers who share his fascination with technology, Vincent found a new sense of belonging. Still, he quickly discovered that university life moves at a relentless pace. “University moves fast – much faster than high school,” he says. To stay ahead, he begins preparing weeks before deadlines and reviews lectures from home. Online sources like YouTube have become his go-to tools for learning; by watching and listening, he absorbs concepts efficiently and keeps pace with his coursework.

The transition, however, was not easy for his mother. “I was very anxious at first,” she admits softly. “I worried about everything – classes, exams, how people would understand his situation.” Those fears gradually eased as she witnessed PolyU’s spirit of inclusion and the network of support surrounding her son.

A network of support and empowerment

PolyU’s support for Vincent goes far beyond physical accommodations; it embodies empathy and innovation in action. The SEN Caring Team from the Student Affairs Office plays a pivotal role, providing physical and emotional support. They offer a dedicated room for special educational needs (SEN) students, equipped with adjustable workstations and two mobile hoists that enable safe transfers between a wheelchair and a bed during study and rest. Academic staff collaborate closely with the SEN team to ensure Vincent can fully participate in university life.

Among those contributing to this support is tutor Mr Alvin Mak (Alvin) from the Department of Computing. As Vincent’s amanuensis – a note-taker and assistant during exams – Alvin transcribes Vincent’s dictated answers, ensuring his ideas are expressed clearly. He also helps operate specialised equipment: an LCD monitor connected to a visualiser arranged by the Department of Computing after consultation with an occupational therapist. This setup keeps both questions and answers visible, overcoming Vincent’s limited upper-body movement. Adjusted exam schedules and short breaks further help him conserve energy. These thoughtful measures reflect PolyU’s inclusive ethos and belief in enabling every student to thrive.

Meanwhile, Vincent’s mother has undergone her own transformation. Once a constant caregiver, she has learned to step back and watch her son take charge. “It’s not easy,” she says with a smile. “But watching him solve problems and make decisions – that’s when I see how much he’s grown.”

Growth through courage and connection

As Vincent’s confidence grew, so did his independence. He began reaching out directly to professors, coordinating group projects, and managing his own coursework. Once hesitant to ask for assistance, he learned that speaking up is not a sign of dependence but a way to build understanding. This shift, nurtured in part by Alvin’s encouragement, marked a turning point.

“When I first assisted Vincent during exams, his schedule was the same as everyone else’s,” Alvin recalls. “But I could see how exhausting it was for him to finish without rest. I encouraged him to tell the department how he felt, and we worked together to suggest extra time and short breaks. Watching him make that move showed he was ready to take ownership of his learning experience.”

This newfound self-assurance has also shaped his aspirations. Vincent hopes to use his computing skills to develop accessible technologies that improve the daily lives of people with mobility challenges. “I want to give back,” he says. Drawing on his own experience and having volunteered with various non-governmental organisations, he has gained insight into their work and aims to continue contributing after graduation by applying his technical expertise and community awareness to support those in need. With his discipline and strong sense of social responsibility, Vincent is committed to making a lasting, positive impact.

A journey that inspires

Vincent’s story reminds us that independence is not about doing everything alone; it’s about finding strength through collaboration, love and community. “To students with SEN, don’t underestimate yourselves if you feel out of place,” he says. “Adapting takes time.” His journey captures the best of what a university can be – a place where challenges become opportunities and compassion fuels innovation.

Through his quiet perseverance, his family’s unwavering support, and Alvin’s dedication, Vincent continues to rewrite what’s possible, inspiring others to believe in a future shaped by potential rather than limitations.

Vincent Shih and Alvin Mak have forged a strong bond of support and growth.