P2I - Path to Independence

The Path To Independence is:

  • An inclusive, two-year, non-degree certificate program offering a college experience to students with intellectual disabilities.
  • A collaborative effort of UNR's Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED), the University of Nevada Reno Extended Studies Department, (UNR EXS), Sierra Regional Center (SRC), the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR), Lyon County School District and Washoe County School District.
  • Partnering agencies and districts during the 2022-23 academic year include Sierra Regional Center (SRC), Rural Regional Center (RRC), the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR), Lyon County School District. Washoe County School District, Nevada Connections Academy and Bishop Unified School District.

Each student and their invited guests participate in Person Centered Planning (PCP) each spring. The plan determines the level and direction of academic involvement. The STAR (Students Transitioning to Adult Roles) planning process is used, which includes the areas of Academic Enrichment, Independent Living, Self-Determination, Campus & Community Engagement, and Career Development & Employment.

In order to achieve outcomes of employment and independence, the project is structured into three areas:

Academics & Campus Activities

P2I students take University college classes with typical peers. Classroom supports for students in this program are individualized based on need and come from a variety of resources. Students have an educational coach assisting them in class, if needed. In addition, students in the Developmental Disabilities Minor program have the opportunity to earn credits in an independent study class as academic supports or social mentors for Path to Independent students. Regular study sessions are offered for P2I students to get assistance with reading, assignments and homework. In preparation for living a full, productive life, students are encouraged to participate in campus activities such as clubs/organizations and sports activities. Mentors assist them to become active members of the university community.

Employment

Through its collaboration with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), P2I students create an Individual Plan for Employment (IPE). During the four semesters of the program, students prepare for integrated, competitive employment. P2I's employment coordinator takes the lead in these activities:

  • Semester 1: Pre-Employment Training (Pre-ETS) planning, job discussion and exploration
  • Semester 2: Work experience in a rotation of three internships on campus
  • Semester 3: Paid/unpaid internship and/or a student job on campus in an area of interest to student
  • Semester 4: Paid/unpaid internship and/or a student job on campus in an area of interest to student; Work with job developer to find post-graduation competitive integrated employment in the community.

Path to Independence students are now able to live on campus! 

We are excited to announce a partnership between the Path to Independence (P2I) program and the University of Nevada, Reno’s Residential Life, Housing, and Food Services. This collaboration allows P2I students to live on campus and experience college life fully. The below Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) should answer all of your questions about P2I students living on campus. 

Donate now to support P2I students!

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P2I Application Process

Path to Independence is now accepting applications for Fall 2025. The application will close on December 15, 2024 at 5 p.m., no late applications will be considered. Please access the application here:  P2I Application

To qualify for Path to Independence students must:

  • Have a documented diagnosis of intellectual or developmental disability
  • Have completed high school with an IEP
  • Have a minimum 3rd grade reading level (Assistive Technology use is encouraged)
  • Have the ability to communicate with faculty, peers and staff through text, voice or assistive technology
  • Have basic safety skills in an unsupervised setting and potential to navigate campus independently
  • Have the personal desire to gain the skills that will lead to competitive integrated employment upon graduation
  • Are currently receiving, or eligible to receive, supports through the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation and Aging and Disability Services

The application requires the following documents:

  • A current or most recent Individualized Education Plan (IEP) 
  • Psychological evaluation or eligibility determination 
  • Behavior intervention plan (if applicable)
  • 2 Reference Letters from non-family members explaining why you would be a good fit for P2I, and affirming your ability to be independent on a college campus
  • High school transcripts (university requirement)
  • Immunization records (university requirement)
  • A recent photo 
  • A copy of the student’s government issued ID
  • Student admissions media (essay, presentation or video explaining why you want to join P2I)
  • Guardianship or power of attorney documents (if applicable) 

If you are interested in attending P2I and would like to schedule a tour or meeting, please email Nicole Wadden at nwadden@unr.edu.  

What does P2I cost?

  • P2I students pay University tuition and fees, plus a $4,500/semester program fee.
  • Students may be eligible for financial support through Vocational Rehabilitation.
  • Students may be eligible for additional support through their Regional Center.
  • P2I is a Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP) with the U.S. Department of Education; students may qualify for Federal Financial Aid. The Federal Application for Student Aid must be completed to determine eligibility.

P2I External Evaluation Report

For more information, contact:

Lindsay Diamond, Ph.D.
Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Programs
Associate Professor Special Education 

ldiamond@unr.edu

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