November 22, 2024

At the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, the Transition Pathways program is making significant strides in promoting disability inclusion and fostering meaningful work experiences for neurodivergent students and the Drexel community. With two core initiatives—Project SEARCH (PS) and Project Career Launch (PCL)—Transition Pathways sets a new standard for workplace support and community engagement. PS and PCL are school-to-work transition programs for high school students with autism. During the school year, program participants are immersed in internships and career exploration experiences on Drexel University’s campus.

Empowering Drexel Employees with Inclusion Training

With over 20 Drexel-affiliated internship sites, PS and PCL participants have collectively contributed nearly 40,000 hours of internship work to departments across the university. The program impacts Drexel's campus, as 64 Drexel staff members have been trained on disability inclusion and workplace supports. These employees are learning firsthand how to work alongside neurodivergent colleagues, leading to lasting, positive changes in the workplace.

One staff member, reflecting on their experience, shared, "I gained more skills working with neurodiverse individuals and learned new ways to onboard employees, which will benefit us in the future."

Building Connections Between Students and Neurodivergent Peers

Drexel students play a pivotal role in the success of Transition Pathways through the Lindy Center's volunteer programs. Over 30 students have acted as peer mentors for PCL, dedicating over 20,000 hours of community engagement. These peer mentors receive comprehensive training on neurodiversity and inclusivity, providing them with the tools they need to support neurodivergent students. Doing so, they help bridge the gap between academic life and career readiness for over 80 PCL participants.

Internship Opportunities within Drexel's Campus

Program participants gain valuable internship experience in departments across Drexel's campus. Students are fully immersed in the Drexel community, from the Athletic Center and Barnes & Noble Bookstore to the Academy of Natural Sciences and the Center for Functional Fabrics. By working in diverse settings, participants build confidence and develop skills that prepare them for long-term employment.

One participant expressed the mutual benefit of hosting an intern: "It is a win-win arrangement—we enjoy getting to know the students and supporting their professional growth, and they provide a service that saves our team time."

Real-World Work Experiences for Drexel Students

Transition Pathways also provides Drexel students with AmeriCorps co-op experiences and student worker opportunities. Ten students from various majors—including International and General Business, Public Health, and Product Design—gain hands-on experience. These students develop valuable events planning, marketing, and nonprofit operations skills while also learning how to support neurodivergent individuals.

One AmeriCorps participant noted, "Serving at Transition Pathways has been an enriching experience. I was able to learn so much about the autism community in Philadelphia and help young adults with autism transition to the workforce."

Shaping the Future of Inclusive Workplaces

Transition Pathways is more than just a program—it's shaping the future of the workforce. By teaching current and future leaders how to embrace and support neurodivergent colleagues, Transition Pathways is helping to create more compassionate, effective workplaces. The program demonstrates the immense value that neurodiversity brings to teams, both at Drexel and beyond.

Transition Pathways has a profound, lasting impact on the entire university community, from empowering Drexel staff to creating meaningful peer mentorship opportunities for students.

Transition Pathways convenes partnerships with schools, organizations, businesses and community stakeholders to develop innovative approaches to help young adults on the autism spectrum achieve a successful transition to adulthood. Learn more on our website.