It’s not uncommon for high school graduates to wrestle with the question “what next?” Toss Asperger’s syndrome, attention deficit disorder, dysgraphia, dyslexia or a myriad other challenges into the equation, and that question becomes significantly more daunting.
Brittany, a former resident of Rancho Santa Fe, beat leukemia after an arduous battle with the disease in her teens, but still she struggled with Asperger’s syndrome and learning disabilities. At a loss for what to do after high school, a family friend recommended Brittany look into College Living Experience (CLE), a division of Educational Services of America, for guidance and training.
CLE presents young adults with special needs options to help them figure out what direction to take after high school. The organization offers support for earning a vocational certificate, a two-year college associate’s degree, or a four-year bachelor’s degree, though the program reaches far beyond academics. CLE staff provides one-on-one tutoring to help out with classes as well as instruction for independent living, such as how to shop for groceries and pay bills. Guided self-discovery in a group setting also improves social skills. The goal is to prepare students to become self-sufficient, successful adults.
Last year, Brittany completed a two-year college program in Denver with CLE support.
“I never would have made it through my college classes without help from my tutors,” she confesses, “especially math.”
Eternally grateful for her social advisor, Brittany worked through issues with roommates and participated in daily, planned activities with her peers. Although she values the entire CLE program, Brittany admits her favorite part was developing friendships and spending time with other CLE students.
“About 25 of us became like family,” Brittany says, “and we still talk almost every day on Facebook or cell phones.”
When her CLE counselor learned of Brittany’s passion for Disney, the counselor suggested looking into Disney College in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. With a bit of coaching, Brittany filled out and sent an application with crossed fingers.
A few weeks later, a letter came from the Happiest Place on Earth to inform Brittany it was time to pack her bags and follow her dream. She finished her class work and an internship early this year. Now Brittany is a proud member of the full-time staff at Disney World.
The best part? At age 24, Brittany supports herself and lives a happy, independent life.
“We’re known as the kids with learning disabilities who need extra help,” Brittany says, “but [at CLE] we work together to beat the odds … so we come out on top.”
Patricia Wilkinson, a former teacher, mother of two in Bonita, is writing a book called Grade by Grade: Excellent Elementary Education Made Easy to help parents raise happy, well-rounded, life-long learners.