Young adults aged 18-26 years old with a diagnosis of intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) who had an individualized education program (IEP) in high school and live in the Long Beach area.

• Enrollment in college-level CSULB classes
• Inclusion in campus clubs and activities
• Opportunities for on-campus jobs
• Access to the Student Wellness and Recreation Center
• Mentorships and friendships with fellow students
• Students who complete Think Beach program requirements will earn a certificate in Integrated Career Studies

Think Beach students complete two courses per semester, for a total of eight courses throughout the program (2 courses per semester x 4 semesters = 8 courses). Based on a student’s individual strengths and needs, they can take courses for a grade, credit/no credit, or audit.

There are five core courses that will be required for all Think Beach students. These classes support the development of students’ academic, vocational, and social skills.

Additionally, Think Beach students will work with their advisor to select three elective courses based on their career goals and interests. 

Below is a sample program of study for Think Beach students:

Think Beach students will attend weekly workshops with peer mentors that focus on strengthening students’ independent living skills. Topics include, but are not limited to, resume building, interview skills, transportation, financial literacy, time management, hygiene, social skills, mindfulness, and food preparation.

A main goal of Think Beach is to prepare students for competitive integrated employment. Therefore, Think Beach students are expected to participate in a variety of vocational experiences, including career exploration, job shadowing, paid/unpaid internships, and/or paid employment. Think Beach faculty and staff will work with students to develop a vocational plan that best fits each student’s strengths and preferences.

Think Beach faculty and staff conduct person-centered planning with students to identify their strengths, interests, and needs. Faculty and staff will assist students in setting goals and developing an action plan to achieve their goals.

Each student in the Think Beach program will be matched with peer mentors. These mentors are CSULB undergraduate and graduate students who are volunteering their time. Mentors will support Think Beach students as they transition to college life and adulthood. Each mentor will have a different role, including academic (tutoring and note-taking), recreational and social, or health-related (working out at the gym, etc.).