Caitlin Van Ermen
Campus was busy, classes were in session, and cafeterias were full. For three days, the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (RCPD) hosted college-bound high school students; inviting them to “try-on” the college experience.
Project Venture encourages students to explore the opportunities extended to those who further their education at the University level. During this year’s program, a selected group of students with various disabilities engaged in the challenges and opportunities of a big campus and were introduced to the resources available.
Each of the 18 students participated in the academic, social and residential environment including attending an undergraduate class in a lecture hall. They explored assistive technologies useful in academic settings. They navigated ideas of self advocacy and independence through experiential learning and group activities with the help of Project Venture leaders and Residential Assistants.
Participant, Hector said that a surprising moment about Project Venture was, “Finding out that college is good and that I should venture out and expand myself. They have various classes and courses that I can take that would help me pursue my passion.”
Some of the highlights cited by students were staying in Brody hall and eating meals at the famous Brody dining cafeteria. Similar to the college lifestyle, students bonded over outdoor games and residence hall riddles.
Students talked with a panel of current MSU students registered with the RCPD. The panel provided advice and stories of their unique collegiate experiences. Program participants met with RCPD specialists to conduct needs assessments and the registration process.
Project Venture is generously funded by the Wochholz endowment. The program culminated with a conference call for parents and students with Hal Wochholz to illustrate his experience at MSU. He expressed his love for Green and White, and his gratitude for the personal care and quality services available as he prepared for his career. He articulated that during his college career he received an inclusive educational opportunity at a time when accommodations were not customary in higher education. Director Michael Hudson further expressed the extent of Hal’s commitment to MSU as he explained that Hal overcame the uncertainties of polio to become an engineer and executive within two major aerospace corporations. Hudson remarks, “Hal remains steadfast in his dedication to ensuring students and families alike realize higher education is an outstanding way for people to develop skills and knowledge to reach life goals.”
The annual Project Venture program has prepared students from across the country for college life. Thanks to the experience, this group of engaging and determined individuals is increasingly ready for MSU and other college campuses across the country.