Summer Planning Tips for Help Prepare Students with Disabilities in Mercer and Hunterdon County for College and Work

Graduating high school is a significant milestone. However, for many students with disabilities and their families, it brings a wave of questions. What’s next? Is it college? A job? A new routine? How do you prepare for all these changes?

At the Progressive Center for Independent Living (PCIL), we support families across Mercer and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey. As students transition from high school to their next adventure, we help whether they have a specific plan or are still exploring their options.

There is no one-size-fits-all path for this transition. Our adult transition services, in partnership with the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS), are customized to each student's goals. We focus on higher education, employment, independent living, and community involvement. PCIL meets young adults where they are and helps them prepare for the future.

Why Summer is Crucial for Transition

Once students finish their high school responsibilities, summer presents an opportune time to reset, refocus, and prepare for what’s ahead. Without the daily structure of school, students can explore interests, build essential life skills, and gear up for the next chapter.

With adequate support, they can gain confidence and prepare for any future endeavor.

For Students Heading to Postsecondary Institutions This Fall

If your graduate plans to start college or a vocational program this fall, it’s indeed a major achievement. Don't wait until the first day of classes to prepare. The summer months are key for building readiness and confidence.

The college environment can present unique challenges. Students with IEPs or 504 plans may find navigating this space daunting. For those planning to live independently or unsure about their major, we offer essential support. PCIL assists students in strengthening self-advocacy skills. Additionally, we ensure they understand their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

We help students gain confidence in navigating new environments and prepare for campus life or commuting. For individuals considering part-time employment, we offer career interest exploration and readiness support. These services are crucial for a smooth transition into the college experience.

Shane's Success Story

Shane, a recent local graduate, exemplifies how early preparation can foster clarity and confidence. During high school, he enjoyed his studies but sometimes faced challenges with focus and motivation. Thanks to an IEP, Shane had the support of a classroom aide who helped him stay on track.

Despite his achievements, Shane was uncertain about his direction after graduation. This changed when he enrolled in PCIL’s Job Exploration Counseling. This Pre-Employment Transition Service (Pre-ETS) offered through DVRS helped him explore his interests and strengths. After several sessions, Shane gained clarity about his future. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering at Mercer County Community College, with aspirations to transfer to Drexel University.

“Before these activities and discussions, I always had an idea of what I wanted to do but was never sure,” Shane reflected. “These sessions have helped me hone in on what I want to explore and know my skills. Now, I am firmly set on a specific field.”

For Students Who Want to Go to College But Aren’t There Yet

Not every student feels ready to apply to college immediately after graduation—and that’s perfectly fine. Some students may wish to take time to reflect, build confidence, or figure out which path best suits their interests and abilities.

PCIL provides guidance in exploring postsecondary options and understanding application and financial aid processes. We help students develop both short and long-term goals. Our transition planning services encourage students to reflect on their values, skills, and preferences to pinpoint their best next step.

A particularly beneficial service is Steps in Vocational Planning. This program allows participants to take a self-assessment, explore educational and career options, and craft a personalized action plan. For many students, this service becomes the bridge between graduation and their next opportunity.

For Students Transitioning to Work

Many students feel ready to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. However, they might be unsure where to begin. PCIL helps these job-bound students build the confidence needed to succeed in employment.

We offer one-on-one support for important skills like writing resumes, preparing for interviews, and understanding workplace expectations. Additionally, students can participate in workplace communication coaching to further develop their interpersonal skills. Community-Based Work Evaluations align with their strengths and interests, providing hands-on experience.

For those whose goals include commuting to work, we also provide instruction and support for passing the NJ written driver’s permit exam through our Drive-Ability program.

Brisly's Journey to Independence

Brisly Pineda-Briones, a 2025 graduate from Hopewell Valley Central High School, had ambitions of working for her father’s landscaping company while attending cosmetology school. However, she recognized the need for transportation to achieve her dreams.

Earlier attempts to pass the written exam had not been successful. Nevertheless, Brisly enrolled in PCIL’s Drive-Ability program, which provides an adaptive alternative to traditional driver’s education.

“Being part of the Drive-Ability program has shown me the independence I can achieve,” Brisly stated.

With PCIL’s Driver’s Education class, Brisly feels more confident about retaking the written test.

For Students Who Want to Work But Aren’t Sure They Can

Many students may not recognize that employment is a viable option or may lack the confidence to pursue it. PCIL offers a safe and supportive space for students to explore various possibilities.

We will work with students to assess their abilities and identify any needed accommodations. Building critical soft skills like communication, teamwork, and time management is a priority for us. We aim to help students discover their optimal environments and introduce them to various career paths.

Our objective is never to push students into a box. Instead, we strive to help them realize what is possible with the right support in place.

For Students Looking for Connection and Community

Some graduates may be more interested in establishing a new routine, finding social opportunities, or staying active in their communities—not immediately focused on school or work.

PCIL offers peer groups, social events, inclusive recreation, and workshops. These sessions concentrate on self-advocacy, healthy relationships, and independent living skills. We also provide personalized planning sessions to assist students in setting personal goals and remaining engaged within their communities.

For these students, success may not mean a college degree or a job offer. It could simply signify participating, expressing themselves, or trying something new in a secure and supportive environment.

How to Access Services After Graduation

If your student has already graduated, it is not too late to seek support. In New Jersey, individuals with disabilities can access Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) and other employment-related resources through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS).

Here’s how the process works:

• Referrals can be made by the individual, a parent or guardian, or a service provider like PCIL.

• DVRS schedules an Intake Appointment (Survey Interview) to gather relevant information.

• After assessing eligibility, DVRS collaborates with the student to create a personalized plan and connect them with services.

  
  

Available services may include job exploration counseling, work-based learning experiences, workplace readiness training, and self-advocacy instruction. These resources equip students with the tools they need to prepare for work, boost their confidence, and pursue greater independence.

Though the processes change after graduation, these services remain available, and PCIL is here to help you navigate each step.

Let’s Make This Summer Count

Whether your student is college-bound, job-ready, exploring options, or seeking connection—PCIL is here to assist.

We serve families throughout Mercer County and Hunterdon County. Our flexible, individualized support comes from our partnerships with DVRS and other state agencies.

Contact our PCIL Transition Specialists at 609-581-4500 or email info@pcil.org to get started. Let’s make this summer a stepping stone—not a stumbling block.