What are Young Adult Transition Programs?
When we think about the common, and accepted, post-high school tracks we are typically referencing college, trades program, gap year, military service, or doing nothing at all. Obviously, the last option is not talked about, but it’s more common nowadays than ever before. What we don’t discuss is this idea of a micro-community of young adults, in a college town, who are in a “program” where they are learning life skills. This a type of sub community of young adults who just need a little more structure and support to launch into their adulthood years.
First, let me say every program is different. The only real common theme is that all of them are close to post-secondary options (both colleges and trade certification programs). Otherwise, some have therapists, and some don’t. Some have mentors and coaches, and some don’t. Some have houses they move into, and some have 2 bedroom apartments. Some have full-time staff that help with executive functioning, or academic and career support. Some programs have a group of about 11 students in the community, while others have upwards of 45. They exists in New England, Southeast, Midwest, Rockies, Southwest, and Pacific Northwest. Some are specific in working with neurodiverse clients, or a single-gender programs for young adults in recovery, and then some are a mixed gender community. Some focus on college re-entry for those who have attempted college before. Some focus heavily on working a lot, saving money, and having a certain amount in savings to help a young adult put a deposit down on an apartment. Some even teach how to navigate public transportation, or they get their own scooter. They’re all different, and yet they’re the same. Their goal is to help the young adult to be successful adulting.
Finding the right program can be challenging. It’s not just about what the program offers, but getting there with a good fitting community. You also want a program that reflects what the parents need in terms of education and coaching to shift into a different parenting role. Individuation is a real thing, and parents need help too! It’s all about fit.
If you’re the type of young person who is college capable, but you aren’t sure if you are college ready – this is the type of post-high school option you want to explore. This is the best fit for you because you can still pursue college credits, but yet you’re living in a community of peers who are also actively seeking support to ensure they do well on and off-campus. This isn’t the place you go to stay forever, but it’s the place you go to build your foundation and build scaffolding to ensure when you go off to college or another path, you have the skills to navigate everything that’s thrown your way – the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Contact a consultant to help find the right young adult transitional program for you!
For questions or comments contact Joanna.
