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MCC Daily Tribune

Students in MCC's TEAM/TPSID Grant Programs to Participate in Commencement

Shajadia is eager to get her career started, assisting people with their daily self-care needs in a health care setting. A combination of real work experiences--she has had four internships during her time at MCC--classroom learning and co-curricular activities, including a group presentation on Scholars' Day, solidified her interest.

Attending MCC has changed Shajadia's life for the better. "I started out being shy, but I've grown more independent and more confident in myself," she says. She attributes her successes to encouragement from her brother (also an MCC student) who "keeps me on the right track" and Human Services instructor Eileen Radigan, who "inspires me."

Shajadia is among four students completing MCC's Transitional Employment Academic Model (TEAM) program, a partnership with Lifetime Assistance Inc. that emerged from the Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSID) grant. Program participants audit MCC courses related to their chosen field, complete internships on and off campus, and pursue meaningful employment.

Throughout their time at MCC, students in the program work with peer mentors from the Department of Education and Human Services and have access to an array of tailored support services on campus. Students also get involved in student clubs/organizations and campus events/activities. Upon program completion, participants receive support finding employment.

The purpose of the program is to empower participants by giving them an inclusive college experience and supporting their self-determination as they develop the skills needed for meaningful employment and independent living. Historically, students with intellectual and developmental disabilities have had limited opportunities to participate in a college environment.

Since the program's inception in 2011, students within these partnerships have started a club on campus, participated in Scholars' Day, promoted "Spread the Word to End the Word" campaign, served as a club officer, and been nominated by an MCC faculty member as an emerging leader. This spring, three students will participate in the commencement ceremony.

Students have moved on from MCC to employment in the community, including at the YMCA, Wegmans Food Markets, and Courtyard by Marriott.

Currently, students in MCC's TEAM/TPSID grant programs are recruited and supported by three community partners: Lifetime Assistance Inc., Greece School District, and Arc of Monroe.

Attached Files:
Shajadia Watkins.jpg
TEAM Brochure - 2017.pdf

Hency Yuen-Eng
Marketing and Community Relations
05/17/2018