Several colleges nationwide are beginning programs specially designed for individuals like Mike. Clemson is one University that is mentioned often. Locally Northern Kentucky University has been accepting students into several classes. Just recently the University of Cincinnati has begun a program.
Mike's future is an open book. There are many avenues to consider after high school. These options include going to college, getting a job, attending technical or career school, or possibly applying to a life skills program.
Mike's future is an open book. There are many avenues to consider after high school. These options include going to college, getting a job, attending technical or career school, or possibly applying to a life skills program.
The ClemsonLIFE Program offers a 2-year Basic Program that incorporates functional academics, independent living, employment, social/leisure skills, and health/wellness skills in a public university setting with the goal of producing self-sufficient young adults. Additionally, the ClemsonLIFE Program offers a 2-year Advanced Program for students that have demonstrated the ability to safely live independently, sustain employment, and socially integrate during the Basic Program. The Advanced Program progresses with an emphasis on workplace experience, community integration, and independent living with transitionally reduced supports. Students who successfully complete the Basic or Advanced program will receive a corresponding certificate of postsecondary education.
ClemsonLIFE Courses
ClemsonLIFE Courses
- Functional Mathematics, Banking, and Budgeting
- Functional Literacy
- Independent Living Skills
- Social Skills
- Self Advocacy and Safety
- Health and Wellness
- Employment Skills
- Supervised Job Placement/Internship
- Students live in 4 bedroom apartments on campus
- Supervision is provided by an on-site Independent Living Assistant (ILA) in each student apartment
- Independent living skills are taught in class, at the apartments, and then reinforced by ILAs
- Students are taught how to utilize public transportation
- Time management, prioritizing, and scheduling
- Job placements (on and off campus) with on-site supervision
- Weekly jobsite performance evaluations
- Classroom instruction on employment skills
- Employment portfolio development: Each student will develop an electronic employment portfolio to present to prospective employers upon completion of the program. This portfolio will give a more complete picture of what the student is capable of doing in addition to a paper resume. The portfolio will contain a cover letter, resume, letters of recommendation, Sample W-2, Sample I-9 and Sample Application.
- Counselors assist students and resident assistants with independent living skills
- Weekly group counseling sessions with students
- Individual counseling session available, upon student request
- Enrollment in Clemson University leisure skills course
- Involvement in various campus student organizations
- Community involvement
- Interaction with Clemson University students from all across campus
- Mentor Program
- Nutrition and cooking classes
- Personal fitness training
- Personal and universal hygiene practices
- Characteristics of healthy relationships
