Whitefish High School student Shandra Bell is much like other seniors. She is balancing finishing up high school, while also thinking about her life after graduation.

However, Bell is unique from many of her peers because following graduation she will face the world not just as a young adult, but as one who has a disability.

Bell recently had the opportunity to attend the Montana Youth Transitions conference in Missoula. The event brought together high school juniors and seniors from across the state to attend seminars and a vendor fair to learn about opportunities after graduation.

“My favorite part was listening to other people who have disabilities and hearing their stories,” Bell said. “It inspired me to think about what I can do now and later.”

Bell received a scholarship from the state Office of Public Instruction to attend the conference. Bell has crouzon syndrome, a genetic condition that involves the abnormal fusion between some of the bones of the skull and of the face that does not allow the bones to grow normally. Bell was born deaf, but later gained hearing, and was blind in one eye. She has undergone several surgeries.

At the conference, many different people with different challenges spoke about how they navigate in the world. One speaker was Michael Beers, a comedian whose disability is part of his act, who serves on the Missoula County school board.

“I liked getting to know people who are similar to me,” Bell said. “People who have disabilities, but are still able to manage and enjoy their life.”

Bell learned a great deal about how the University of Montana provides assistance to students with disabilities. Following the conference she got the chance to visit the University of Montana campus.

“I was thinking I might attend [Flathead Valley Community College] and be done,” she said. “Now I’m thinking about going further. They have a list of programs to help students — like with taking notes or making sure you’re understanding.”

Bell is interested in the medical field because she likes working with people. She is considering becoming a certified nursing assistant.

Teacher Christian Bitterauf said the transition to college and the world can be challenging for students with disabilities.

“It’s important that kids are prepared vocationally and socially,” he said. “It’s something we’re trying more to prepare them for through their four years of high school.”

Bitterauf said the conference is a chance for students to learn about personal responsibilities they will face after high school, such as managing their health care and finances, as well as empowering students to know what they can do.

Ronda Bell said the conference was just that for her daughter.

“I’ve always tried really hard to let her know that even if you have a disability you can succeed,” she said. “I’m glad they have this conference to show students they can succeed.”