Readiness, Academics, Mentorship
(R.A.M.) Initiative
Inclusive Post-Secondary Education for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities at West Chester University of PA
The R.A.M. Initiative is a program at West Chester University, bringing students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), ages 18-24, to campus in very small numbers, to participate in a two-year commuter-style post-secondary education experience. In the inclusive RAM-I program students learn and interact with all students, faculty, staff, and administrators on campus, not in segregated environments. The students audit classes and have a non-traditional application/admissions process. Students in the RAM-I are full-time students, have full privileges of the university, and are eligible for Pell Grants and Federal Financial Work Study programs (if eligible via a FASFA form).
Mission/Vision
Provide inclusive post-secondary education to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, to acquire skills leading to a more independent life.
Why should WCU?
The university has a history of supporting marginalized and underrepresented groups. As stated in our university mission we are a vibrant community that values its members, and we can offer a campus climate of acceptance. WCU is the flagship institution of the PA State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). This pattern of excellence will continue and is applied to the recruitment, training, and retention of high-quality peer mentors for students who participate in R.A.M. Initiative. We have vibrant professional preparation programs in special education, social work, psychology, communication disorders, and adapted physical activity, whose students regularly participate in community-based engagement programs with individuals who have IDD. We draw upon high quality peer mentors, supportive faculty, and staff to enrich our program.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Develop students who are empowered, employable and have career aspirations
- Develop students who are self-learners and life-long learners
- Develop students who are socially effective, healthy, and happy
- Develop students who have social communication skills and have a high participation level in their community
Why
- Individuals with IDD have better employment outcomes when they attend post-secondary educational experiences.
- Inclusive opportunities with similar age peers provide a positive quality of life experience and ‘finding’ oneself, just like all other students coming to college.
- Daily living skills are practiced in real life settings.
- Self-worth is increased while students gain knowledge to hone their career interests.
Eligibility
Students with IDD are those who “have significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and in adaptive behaviors which covers many everyday social and practical skills” (AAIDD, 2017). These students come to the college experience without a traditional academic diploma, nor standardized test scores. We focus on students whose ages are between 18 and 24 as of the first day of the Fall semester of classes that they begin the program. These students have completed at least 4 years of high school and have been in Special Education and have had an Individualized Education Program during their school years.
RAM-I Parent FAQs
R.A.M. stands for Readiness, Academics, Mentorship. It is a 2-year inclusive commuter-style college program at West Chester University designed to provide students with a real college experience while building independence, social skills, and career readiness.
What is the purpose of the R.A.M. Initiative Program?
The program provides students with an opportunity to engage in academics and enhance their independence, social skills, and career exploration with college-aged mentors from the university.
Who is eligible to participate?
Applicants must:
- Have a documented Intellectual or Developmental Disability (educational or medical)
- Hold a GED, high school diploma, or certificate of completion
- Be 18-24 years old at program start (August 31)
- Have emotional regulation, self-advocacy, and independent living skills to participate in campus life and classes with minimal support
- Have functional literacy and basic computer skills
- Be able to follow campus rules, attend classes for up to 75 minutes, and navigate the university environment
- Demonstrate motivation to participate and meet program expectations
What does the program schedule look like?
Students are full-time, spending a minimum of 30 hours per week on campus. The program is 2 years, which is equivalent to 4 semesters. Students take 3-4 classes each semester, including a 9-hour weekly internship starting in their second semester.
What types of classes do students take?
Students may audit most 100/200 level WCU courses, with some restrictions for major-only classes. Required courses include First-Year Experience in semester 1 and Public Speaking and Portfolio in fourth semester. Audited courses are billed the same as regular courses by credit.
What are the internships like?
Internships begin in semester 2 and continue through semesters 3 and 4. Students meet with staff to explore interests and are placed in a 9-hour per week, on-campus internships with support from peer mentors. Internships may be paid depending on the placement site.
Will my student always have a mentor?
Students receive support during scheduled program activities and internships. Depending on the activity and individual needs, students may also have opportunities to work independently. The ultimate goal of our program is independence.
What skills does the program focus on developing?
The program focuses on independence, self-advocacy, campus navigation, social engagement, and career exploration through internships.
What campus resources and activities are available?
Students have access to all campus resources including dining halls, the recreation center, library, clubs, and campus events. Participation in campus life is encouraged.
Is the program residential?
No. This is a commuter program. Students live off campus and travel to WCU each day.
Where does the program take place?
The program is campus-based and operates out of the Neurodiversity Center in collaboration with the Dub-C Autism Program located at 20 Linden Street.
Who can families contact with questions?
Program Director: Dr. Cherie Fishbaugh – 610-436-3168
Email: RamInitiative@wcupa.edu
