Program Philosophies

As a whole, the program philosophy is founded on inclusion and individualization, based on each student’s interests and support needs.  Additionally, our program focuses on the following principles:

• Typicality​:  We work to ensure that our students have the most typical college experience possible.  This means that we do not offer 1:1 support, 24/7 supervision, or cohort or program-based activities.  We encourage students to utilize the program supports as scheduled, while accessing university supports and services as well.
• Expectation of Interdependence​:  We support students as they work toward gaining independence, while recognizing that all individuals need to ask for help at times and utilize their resources.  We want our students to advocate for their needs and ask for help when necessary!
• Program of One: Each student is a unique individual with different support needs​, and we recognize that all students do not need the same services and supports! 
• Self-Determination and Agency​: We empower students to take an active role in shaping their college experience by identifying their goals, making choices, and directing their own supports. Students are encouraged to build confidence in their ability to advocate for themselves and be the voice in their own decision-making.
• Dignity of Risk: We recognize that growth often comes through challenge and experience. Students are supported in taking appropriate, prudent risks, learning from successes and setbacks, and developing resilience.
• Supported Decision Making: We encourage students to make their own decisions while utilizing trusted supports, such as staff, peers, and family, to gather information and consider options. We do not require that a student be their own guardian to be admitted to our program (though it is preferred), however we do default to a supported decision making model during enrollment.

 

Domains of Support

 

Academic Instruction

Students take 12-15 credit hours of course work each semester. Course work is comprised of both University of South Carolina and CarolinaLIFE courses. Students audit University of South Carolina courses that align with their interests and goals. Students in CarolinaLIFE have accessed over 100 university courses.  CarolinaLIFE courses provide small-group instruction in applied subjects such as employment, personal finance, communication, health and wellness, and technology. Additionally, students participate in at least 1.5 hours of individualized academic support per week with an academic coach, while also having the opportunity to attend study labs for additional academic support.

 

Career Education and Training

Students receive classroom instruction in career topics and build employment skills through a variety of job shadowing, internship, and employment opportunities. Students prepare for employment through a structured and sequenced 8-course employment course series beginning the first semester of their freshman year.  Freshmen also complete 10 hours of job shadowing in a career field of interest during their spring semester.  Starting sophomore year, students are required to work or participate in an internship.  Sophomores are required to have 5-10 hours/week of employment experience, while Juniors are required to have 10-15 hours/week, and seniors are d to have 15-20 hours/week of employment experience.  Students also participate in structured Exit Planning beginning during their junior year to support improved employment outcomes upon graduation.

 

Independent Living

CarolinaLIFE students normally reside in on-campus housing amidst other university students during their freshmen year.  Students may choose to live with another CarolinaLIFE freshmen, or can choose to be matched with a random roommate through the typical university roommate assignment process. Students live in a suite-style residence hall, sharing a room with another student, and a bathroom with an adjoining room. Students receive 1.5 hours weekly of individualized independent living skill support and instruction from CarolinaLIFE Living and Learning Lab coaches.  Topics focused on often include transportation, household chores, budgeting, meal planning and cooking, health, and safety, grocery shopping, personal wellness, and more.

 

Social and Community Engagement

Students at the University of South Carolina join a vast and vibrant campus community. The university offers opportunities to join a variety of campus groups, formal organizations, and campus events to support students in their personal and professional development. Additionally, USC is in the heart of Columbia’s downtown and is within walking distance of many of the city’s most popular districts. CarolinaLIFE social engagement coaches provide natural social support to facilitate student connections to the university.  

 

Personal Development

Personal growth and development is a significant outcome of the college experience. CarolinaLIFE students receive 1 hour a week of Personal Development coaching from  trained coaches who support students in navigating the experiences that are both typical to college aged students, and unique to students with a disability.  Students receive support in expanding their self-awareness, developing their young-adult identity, and becoming more self-determined.  Students also often work through issues related to time management, feelings related to stress and being overwhelmed, relationships, and more.  Supports are individualized and student driven.