The Path to Independence (P2I) program welcomed 12 incoming students to the University of Nevada, Reno for its fourth annual summer camp from June 22-26, 2026. The week-long camp gives students an introduction to what life on campus will be like when they begin classes in the fall, helping familiarize them with the schedule and environment of the P2I program. They meet their future classmates and start building connections with faculty members before the semester begins.

“We know that starting college can feel overwhelming, so we want to help ease some of those nerves by introducing students to our program, campus and one another in a fun, supportive environment,” said Ryah McKay, Ph.D., assistant director of Path to Independence. “Our goal is for students to begin the semester feeling confident, prepared and excited for what's ahead.”

The week began with a campus tour, introductions to the program and opportunities for students to get to know one another through team-building activities. As the week continued, students explored career interests by completing their interest inventories and creating and presenting vision boards. Students also participated in an employment scavenger hunt with the Nevada Career Studio to learn about on-campus job opportunities and career resources.

Later, students learned about independent living from the P2I grad assistant and discussed the four independent living courses that they will take in the fall. They explored postsecondary education options, met with vocational rehabilitation representatives and heard firsthand from current P2I students during a student panel about what it's like to be part of the program – and what comes after graduation.

"My favorite activity for the week of P2I camp is being the first captain and leader of the P2I group for new college students who have been accepted to the University,” said current P2I student John Alvarado. “I really enjoy helping all of them find their hobbies, skills, talents, goals, dreams and careers."

Additionally, campers received their student iPads from the assistant director of the Digital Wolf Pack Initiative, visited the Keck Mackay Mines Museum, explored locations on campus like the Wolf Shop and Pack Place dining hall and learned how to navigate important university systems before the semester begins.

"The most meaningful part of the summer camp was getting to help introduce the P2I students to campus and what some of their college routines will look like in the fall, while also starting to make connections between students and with some of the staff,” said P2I Ed Coach Sid Hulsey. “This way, they don’t have to navigate anything on their own and feel like they have a safe space available."

Founded in 2013, the P2I program has grown steadily. In May 2025, the program celebrated its tenth graduating class. With 16 new students enrolled, the fall 2026 semester will have the largest incoming cohort in program history. This will bring the number of enrolled P2I students to 26, making fall 2026 also the largest total enrollment to date.

"One of my favorite parts of summer camp is seeing students realize they can do things they never thought possible,” said McKay. “Every new friendship, every challenge they overcome and every moment of confidence they gain reminds me why creating opportunities for inclusive postsecondary education is so important. It's a privilege to be part of their journey.”

Path to Independence is a two-year, non-degree program based in the College of Education and Human Development for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is one of only two programs in Nevada that cater to this demographic, and the only one in the state to offer fully inclusive on-campus housing.

This year’s camp was generously sponsored by the Nevada Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation.