How to Apply

Thank you for your interest in applying to our READINESS, ACADEMICS, and MENTORSHIP, R.A.M. Initiative program at West Chester University. Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for admission.

  • The applicant must have a documented diagnosis of an Intellectual and Developmental Disability (educational or medical).
  • The applicant must hold a GED, Diploma, or Certificate of Completion from High School.
  • Applicant must be between the ages of 18-24 at the start of the program (August 31).
  • The applicant must have sufficient emotional self-regulation skills, self-advocacy skills, and independent living skills to participate with minimal support in all aspects of their coursework and campus environment. The applicant must have functional literacy skills and basic computer literacy in order to comprehend basic safety signage, complete assignments, manage technology, and navigate the campus independently.
  • The applicant should be able to appropriately participate in 60-90 minute classes and navigate social situations independently,  such as being alone in the student union building, library, and waiting outside a class building.
  • The applicant must demonstrate the ability to accept and follow campus rules and abide by the student code of conduct.
    • Note: R.A.M. does not have the personnel to supervise students with difficult and challenging behaviors or to dispense medications. Students who are enrolled in the R.A.M program will not be ‘supervised’ at all times, rather, they will be provided with a mentor during academics and extracurricular activities. 
  • The applicant must demonstrate the desire to attend R.A.M. and adhere to the policies regarding attendance and participation in West Chester University courses and community.
  • The applicant must have the potential to successfully achieve his/her goals and the course requirements to audit the course.

     

Application Checklist

Applicants should complete all items on the checklist as well as gather copies of the requested documents. Once all materials are completed and gathered, please send to:

M. Initiative
West Chester University
20 Linden St.
West Chester, PA 19383

____ Student Application
____ Personal Support Inventory
____ Student Interest Questionnaire
____ Recommendation Letter Consent
____ Student Typed (500 word essay/ Statement of Intent)
     Prompt: How will college help fulfill your goals and enhance your career path? What is your plan to help you be successful in college?

Requested Documents

____ Copy of High School transcript
____ Copy of Most Recent IEP
____ Re-Evaluation (generally found in IEP)
____ Final Summary of Performance
____ Any other Post-Secondary program Records