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MIAMI (AP) — A Miami man who was told he'd never walk or talk again after being shot in the head a decade ago was recognized for his accomplishments Monday as he graduated from Florida International University.
"It has been a long road," said Robert Bozeman Jr., who wants to write a book about his experiences. "This is a really big day for me."
In 2005, the then-21-year-old was shot in the head with an AK-47 and was found lying in the middle of a street after a night out at a Cutler Ridge club.
"The doctors told him he'd never walk or talk again," said his sister, Idris Bozeman. "He proved them wrong and persevered."
Bozeman had to relearn how to walk and talk but didn't let his challenges stop him. He enrolled in Miami Dade College, where he earned an associate's degree in mass communication before enrolling at FIU. He also began speaking about his experience.
On Monday night, Bozeman was named a Worlds Ahead graduate at FIU's fall commencement ceremony, The Miami Herald reported (http://hrld.us/1O74jW8 ). Every semester, FIU selects several students who have beaten the odds and graduate for the recognition.
"When we have individuals who have overcome incredible odds, we like to recognize them," FIU President Mark Rosenberg said. "His story can give hope to other people."
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Information from: The Miami Herald, http://www.herald.com
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