Spring is the time for Transition to College Fairs for high school students with disabilities. DO-IT and several community colleges have joined forces in hosting several events. On March 28, one hundred students from ten different schools merged on the campus of Spokane Community College. Some students traveled as far as ninety miles each way to participate in transition-based sessions related to higher education, managing money, and accessing disability services, as well as tour the campus.
A few days later, on March 30, North Seattle Community College hosted nearly the same number of students from the Puget Sound Region. This time a few of the groups had to wake up extra early to fit ferry travel into their schedules. Students were engaged and focused during sessions that included self-determination, accessing accommodations, and choosing a college. Both events included panels of college students with disabilities who talked about their experiences and shared tips for success.
We wrapped up the season with an event at Lake Washington Technical College on April 27, where we engaged students east of Lake Washington in the high school to college transition process. For more information or to coordinate with DO-IT to create a Transition to College Event, contact Debra Zawada, dzawada@u.washington.edu or 206-616-5554.