Phase 1
Launching the Search
Key Goals:
- Begin exploring college types and postsecondary options on the transition to college
- Understand elements of college life
- Identify values, interests, strengths, and learning needs/preferences
- Build self-awareness and introduce basic executive functioning tools
Skills Developed:
- Self-awareness & goal setting
- Time awareness & organization basics
- Intro to learning differences and support services in college
- Communication
- Research and critical thinking
Phase 2
Exploring Options
Key Goals:
- Research colleges, majors, campus environments, and support programs
- Create a balanced college list with “fit” in mind—academic, social, emotional, and financial needs
- Attend college fairs, tours, and information sessions
Skills Developed:
- Research and critical thinking
- Note-taking and question development for visits
- Understanding of learning differences supports and accommodation processes
- Organizational tools for managing information (college spreadsheet, planner use, etc.)
Phase 3
Applying with Purpose
Key Goals:
- Complete applications, essays, and interviews
- Request letters of recommendation and transcripts
- Submit FAFSA Profile for financial aid
- Track deadlines and submission progress
Skills Developed:
- Task initiation and follow-through
- Clear, authentic written communication
- Task management, prioritization, and planning
- Collaboration with counselors and teachers
- Emotional regulation and stress management during decision season
If students need direct support for essay writing, SAT/ACT prep, tutoring, etc- these elements will be referred to the appropriate professionals
Phase 4
Making the Decision
Key Goals:
- Review acceptances, financial aid offers, and support options
- Attend admitted student events
- Make a final decision and submit enrollment and housing deposits
- Make social connections at college of choice
Skills Developed:
- Decision-making with multiple variables
- Financial literacy
- Family communication and expectation-setting
- Transition planning initiation (orientation, placement exams, etc.)
Phase 5
Building College-Specific Readiness
Key Goals:
- Develop routines and systems for independent living and academics
- Practice executive functioning and life management skills
- Learn how to access campus resources and support
- Complete ADA accommodations process
Skills Developed:
- Time management (weekly planning, digital calendar use)
- Task tracking, organization systems, and studying techniques
- Self-advocacy and communication with faculty/support offices
- Self-care and resilience strategies (nutrition, sleep, stress coping)
- Understanding of accommodations and disability disclosure
Phase 6
Thriving in College
Key Goals:
- Adjust to the demands of college life socially, emotionally, and academically
- Build campus connections and identity as a learner
- Engage in student life and take ownership of personal well-being
- Reflect on progress and adjust goals as needed
- Build advocacy skills in the college environment
Skills Reinforced & Advanced:
- Deepened executive functioning (prioritizing, flexible thinking, persistence)
- Effective help-seeking behavior (tutors, mentors, professors, counselors)
- Balance of academic, social, and personal responsibilities
- Growth mindset and emotional regulation
- Strategic use of disability services, health services, and peer networks
Optional Phase
Recalibrate & Persist
Key Goals:
- Respond to academic or personal challenges proactively
- Revisit major, campus fit, or support systems
- Utilize coaching, mental health resources, or transfer planning if needed
Skills Developed:
- Reflection and reframing
- Problem-solving and asking for help
- Resilience in the face of change or failure
- Managing transition within transition
Built-In Parent & Family Engagement Throughout
- Understanding changing roles and boundaries
- Learning how to support autonomy and advocate appropriately
- Participating in parallel workshops and check-ins
- Accessing resources to help students transition and manage your own transition
