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The Importance of School-to-Work Programs

  • Transition Pathways
Posted on September 26, 2023
MosesB
Moses connecting with a current Project Career Launch student

Transition Pathways was excited to welcome the class of 2023/2024 with a live panel discussion led by our Neurodivergent Young Adult Advisory Council (NYAAC). In fact, one member of the council, Moses Bangura, was a past participant in Project Career Launch. We asked Moses to share his experience with Transition Pathways school-to-work programs. We are grateful Moses took the time to share his experience.  

Why do you feel programs like Project Career Launch are important? The reason why I feel like Programs like Project Career Launch are important is because it helps students on the Autism spectrum, not only develop skills for independent living, but a sense of high self-esteem and being understood. 

Are you currently taking classes? If so, where? What degree are you seeking and why? I'm currently taking college courses for the 2023 spring semester at the Community College of Philadelphia (CCP). The degree/major I am pursuing is Paralegal Studies. The reason I chose that major is because I want to learn enough skills that can help me when it comes to working in a law-related profession.  

In what ways do you feel the advisory board is working to create impact around school-to-work transition programs? I feel that the advisory board would is great for those on the spectrum transitioning from school to independent success. The best way to motivate someone is by being in the same boat as them. This gives them a sense of hope and confidence, if people can see them succeed despite their disability/disorder, they can achieve success and their dreams as well.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about applying for a school-to-work transition program like Project Career Launch? All I can say is that signing up for Project Career Launch is a great decision if you want to pursue independent living. I was a member of the program, and I can say it with certainty, if I hadn't signed up for the program, I would've never developed such skills that helped me throughout my two years being at CCP. I guarantee that the program will impact your life for the better as long as you have the motivation to achieve your goals/dreams. 

Applications for the 2024-2025 school year open up in October. Visit Transition Pathways for more information on school-to-work transition programs. 

Transition Pathways provides experiential learning to students with autism and/or intellectual disabilities with a goal of sustainable, competitive employment in the community. To learn more about our work and support us, click HERE.   

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