Self-Determined Transition Readiness Through Individual Vocational Experiences (STRIVE)

STRIVE is a post-secondary education program offering two semesters of non-credit employment skills development at the University of Missouri for 18- to 30-year-olds with autism or a similar diagnosis.

Thanks to generous private and public support, the $8,000 program cost per student is reduced to only $3,000. With that investment, STRIVE participants will receive 300 hours of skill instruction, 60 hours of mentorship and up to 300 hours of work experience during the 2 semester program. Some financial assistance is available by completing this application.

We are currently accepting applications for the 2023-2024 STRIVE cohort.

Prepare for the Future with STRIVE’s 3 Pillars:

Direct skill instruction led by staff from the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment
Job experience and coached feedback
Peer mentoring for participants; parent support for caregivers

Admission Requirements:

A strong desire to become more independent and work competitively
Autism diagnosis or a diagnosis with similar symptoms; documentation may be required
Age 18-30 years (exceptions may be made by strive staff)
No longer enrolled in high school
Comprehensive (both nonverbal and verbal) IQ at or above 85 (verification may be required)
Completed Admissions Checklist and Online Application (see below)

Application Materials:

2023-2024 Admissions Checklist
Online Application (paper application available by request)
Release of Information for confirmation of autism diagnosis and other health records as needed
Financial Assistance Form (if needed)

Ready to set yourself up for success? Apply now to begin fall semester 2023. Spots are limited.

Questions? Contact Jaclyn Benigno | strive@missouri.edu | (573)882-2077

STRIVE

Services

Self-Determined Transition Readiness Through Individual Vocational Experiences (STRIVE)

Prepare for the Future with STRIVE’s 3 Pillars:

Admission Requirements:

Application Materials: