The Career Studies program at Penn State Harrisburg offers individuals with intellectual disabilities can earn a post-secondary education that leads to professional networks and careers.

The program was started in 2015 at the college as one of several programs that stated in the state, to provide a college experience and job preparation for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

“At Penn State Harrisburg, we have about 4500 students enrolled. So it's a nice natural proportion, of students, as the as more and more school districts are aware and refer students to us, and as more and more families are aware and contact students, to come into the program, we're able, I think, to provide them a really robust program that includes inclusion and involvement in activities on campus, career exploration and academic enrichment, “said Dr. Linda Rhen, Program Director of the Career Studies Program at Penn State Harrisburg.

The career studies program is a two-year, four- semesters program that includes academic and social enhancement, a chance to explore careers, and work experience.

“Of the growth that families see just with maturity. And, you know, some of our students get tired of hearing self-advocacy. You need to speak up for yourself. You have a voice. That's a huge part of our program. And you can make decisions for yourself. And our, our families share how awesome the program has been and just the experience. I mean, everybody, benefits from being part of a college community, and our students are getting that, that benefit as well, because they are clearly, included in part of the community, “said Sandy McBride, Program Coordinator of the Career Studies Program at Penn State Harrisburg.

The programs also include peer mentors providing students with support in their classes and on-campus activities.  The peer mentors are student workers at Penn State Harrisburg. According to Dr. Rhen, they found all students benefit from the peer mentor program.

“So, you know, it's like a win- win for everything. It's a win-win for the career studies program and the students getting support. And for the peer mentors, they're involved in something and learn about something that you know is totally new to them. And we've actually had some of the peer mentors go on to careers in human Services that they wouldn't have known about otherwise, “said Rhen.

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