Access Plus Program

Program Participant Success

In the 2024 Marilyn Segal Early Childhood Studies Center Newsletter, the Access Plus Program introduced one of their students, Bryan Pekar, an art major with a concentration in graphic design, who secured an internship with NSU’s Office of Printing and Publications. This fantastic opportunity provided Bryan with hands-on experience, working alongside industry experts. As a result of this internship, Bryan was selected to complete an internship in graphic design at Wedding Salon and was employed part time at NSU’s Copy Center as well.

 

First day of internship; Bryan Pekar featured in the center.

 

Additionally, the Access Plus Program is proud to announce that Bryan Pekar successfully graduated from NSU this winter with a B.A. in Art and Design with a concentration in graphic design. Bryan participated in the Access Plus program throughout his four years at NSU. We are very proud of Bryan and wish him much success in his future endeavors.

 

A Cornerstone of NSU’s Autism Institute

Access Plus is a cornerstone of NSU’s Autism Institute, designed to pave the way for collegiate success, while nurturing holistic development. Beyond its focus on academic excellence and achievement, Access Plus is a personalized program meticulously crafted to empower students on their journey within NSU, including developing independent living skills and participation in campus life engagement opportunities.

Services offered include:

  • 2-hour, daily study hall, staffed by peer mentors that meets Monday through Friday
  • Assistance in supporting and maintaining appropriate structure to the student’s day and the supervision of assignments through completion
  • Residential supports through the training of Residential Advisors assigned to the on campus living spaces of Access Plus students
  • Support to participate in and enjoy extracurricular activities thereby being involved in the overall college experience including campus clubs, organizations and social events.
  • Assistance in planning weekend activities on campus and in the community to ensure that these students have as typical a college experience as possible.
  • Weekly psycho-educational groups will be offered to students to focus on information exchange, skill building, and reflection and discussion regarding individual progress.

The program’s evolution over the past five years highlights the commitment to offering professional training and collaborating with advocates to increase awareness and support for NSU students.

 

For more information about the Access Plus Program, please contact:

Maribel Del Río-Roberts, Psy.D., Associate Professor – Department of Human Services

(954) 262-8529

mdelrio@nova.edu

https://www.nova.edu/accessplus/index.html