Come and EXPLORE post-high school options like employment, trades training, community college, and university enrollment.
We welcome students of all ability levels (ages 14-21) to join us in this journey toward self-advocacy and self-determination. While enrolled, students develop an action plan based on their post-graduation interests. EXPLORE is a collaboration between Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) and the University of Iowa REACH Program
Discovering strengths and charting the path to your future!
Monthly Sessions
Throughout nine sessions, we cover topics on career exploration, self-advocacy, job applications, resumes, interviews, accommodations, work-based learning experiences, and more.
Monthly Session Topics
| Month | Topic |
|---|---|
| April | Explore your strengths, interests, and careers opportunities |
| May | Hard vs. soft skills |
| June | Summer Camp |
| August | Working with a team |
| September | Job applications and interviews |
| October | Resumes and cover letters |
| November | Accommodations and supports |
| December | Self advocacy |
| January | Portfolio Development |
| February | Portfolio Presentations |
Summer Camp
Students practice what they’ve learned during an optional week-long summer program on the University of Iowa campus, exploring Iowa City through job shadowing opportunities.
Students visit several in-demand industries/jobs and participate in informational interviews and job shadows. With a focus on self-advocacy instruction, EXPLORE gives students the opportunity to practice effective communication and develop the ability to convey their interests and desires when looking for a job or continued education.
Parent Education
EXPLORE includes parent education opportunities, covering essential topics such as transition resources, guardianship, and parent advocacy and networking opportunities.
Enrollment
Interested in EXPLORE? Let us know through filling out our survey or contact UI REACH Transition Coordinator Katie Abrams at kathryn-abrams@uiowa.edu.
We offer several payment options to make this program accessible. If you are currently enrolled in Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services, you can participate in this program for free! Additionally, there are scholarship opportunities and self-pay options with flexible payment plans.