College Connect is an evidence-informed program for students with disabilities to enhance independence, promote academic success and create opportunities for meaningful social and emotional relationships. College professors, educational and clinical psychologists collaboratively created College Connect as a response to the growing need for support services after high school.

College Connect is a skills building program that focuses on increasing academic success, fostering social relationships and building the students independence. College Connect is not a passive program in where services are done for the student. Our team, and students are actively committed to a partnership with student services, the college campus and the greater community.

College Connect has been developed to support students in all areas of the college experience and employment. Our team provides ongoing support by developing social-emotional skills, academic and educational strategies for success and independence. Development of these skills will later translate into future “real world” occupational success. Services include individual coaching, groups, campus observations, academic support and family contact.

Life in college is very different than in high school. Unlike high school colleges are not obligated to provide support nor do any supports happen without inititation. College supports unlike high school are very limited usually limited to more time on test and help with note taking. College Connect does not duplicate resources that are already in place at the college. We partner with student services to provide individualized support for students to help them achieve academic success. College Connect services are nothing like what you can find on a campus.

While College Connect does not provide traditional tutoring we deliver targeted educational strategies to improve academic performance resulting in higher grades and classroom confidence.

College Connect is 100% funded through Regional Centers. There is no direct cost to the family or college.

When something is new it can be intimidating so it helps to know what to expect. The first step is meeting with an expert in academic and career planning to get to know you. We will discover what your goals, fears, strengths, and areas of growth you want to work on. It is also a great opportunity to interview us and discover what we can offer. With this information we complete a profile that is sent to your Regional Center for review. Upon Regional Center approval we will introduce you to your personal coach and develop a customize schedule for you with everything you need to succeed. You will also meet new students and more advanced students that will be excited to welcome you! It is normal to feel nervous, just remember that this is a sign of your growth.

We have had the awesome experience of seeing so many students accomplish what they never thought possible. From struggling with the first class, to transferring to four-year universities, obtaining a drivers license, make lasting friendships, completion of certificates degrees and scholarships, College Connect has seen the hard work of students pay off. College Connect has supported many in finding careers in exciting fields and jobs, discover new hobbies and passions, and successfully navigate college. College Connect students are more confident and more prepared to handle life’s challenges while making friends along the way.

Some programs have 'add on' services that work with young adults in college, but at College Connect- college and transition support it is all we do! Our entire program is a specialty program for those seeking support for young adults going to college, seeking employment, and transitioning to life after high school. The sole mission and focus of our program is for young adult success. Our long standing commitment in successful young adult transition has provided us the privilege of training and educating local providers and professionals how to best meet young adult needs in the community.

Professor and academic contact is permitted per campus policy and students may need to initiate support in writing, per appointment. Not all appointments are guaranteed this access. It is preferred that students can initiate and attend meetings on their own with the support of College Connect staff through modeling, scripting, and review before and after meetings. ​ We believe that for many students this is an important and necessary next step towards greater independence and self-advocacy. However, there are limited instances where our physical presence is helpful as students build these skills. College Connect staff presence in meetings is only as a support, and never as a personal advocate. It is important to note that College Connect will not attend meetings related to grade disputes or other disputes that involve college administration. Due to the variable nature of these disputes, it is best that families attend such meetings.

The short answer…Yes! College Connect believes that personal growth and learning is in part discovered through personal relationships, events, activites, and groups. College Connect has many students and team members that have diverse interests and personalities for you to find the right fit.