“What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Arguably the most common question asked to young children and teens, this inquiry is often met with excitement, grand plans and hope for the future. Some dream of saving lives, exploring space or teaching young minds. Others look to careers in trade, management or business. But some individuals, especially people with disabilities, are often overlooked.
Beginning in August with the 2023-24 school year, the University of Florida College of Medicine and UF Health will welcome the first cohort of Alachua County Public Schools students to Project SEARCH, a program for neurodivergent high school students to intern at the hospital and build the skills they need to succeed in a competitive workforce.
The program will join hundreds of others around the state, country and world ultimately helping individuals with developmental disabilities gain job experience, independence and employment.
|