www.cod.edu/COACH

COACH (Career Opportunity ACHievement) is a two-year cohort program for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. In addition to an academic focus on reading, writing, math and computer literacy, COACH also promotes social skills, independence and career exploration.

COACH has been developed to provide post-transition students with engaging educational and life-skills training to help prepare for meaningful employment.

COACH Program Sequence:
Semesters One and Two – Skill Building
Students review and build skills in fundamental math, literacy and computer technology. They will also begin exploring career paths. This half of the program is cohort-focused, with curriculum designed specifically for COACH students.

Semester Three – Job Shadowing
Students participate in job shadowing experiences which can occur on campus or off campus to further support exploring their career interests.

Semester Four – Internship
Students gain practical experience by engaging in unpaid internships which can occur on campus or off campus for approximately 8 hours per week.

COACH and Student Life on Campus
COACH students are integrated with the College of DuPage campus community by spending time in credit-bearing courses, mentoring and on-campus job shadow and internship experiences.

In addition, COACH students are encouraged to participate in campus social life by joining a club, attending Student Life activities and participating in campus events. Students are also paired with a COD Buddy, who is a student who is trained in working with students with intellectual disabilities. COD Buddies act as ambassadors and mentors to COACH students, providing them a connection to the social aspect of the college experience.

свернуть