Embark Penn State: Supporting the Transition to College for Students on the Autism Spectrum
Welcome to Embark:
Embark Penn State is a summer transition program designed to support incoming first-year University Park students on the autism spectrum as they prepare to begin their Penn State journey. The program offers students an opportunity to become familiar with campus, build connections with peers, and develop the academic, campus life, and social skills that support a successful start to college.
During this one-week residential experience, students explore campus life while participating in structured activities, guided campus exploration, and skill-building sessions focused on navigating both the academic and social aspects of university life. Participants will also begin developing plans and identifying supports that can help them thrive throughout their university journey at Penn State.
Embark Penn State will be offered June 7–12, 2026.
Learn more about Embark Penn State here: https://ed.psu.edu/embark-penn-state/embark-experience.
What we will explore at Embark:
Navigating Penn State
You will become familiar with the systems and structures that shape daily life at Penn State. Some of these include living in the dorms, dining, campus resources, and general university processes. The goal is to help you feel confident understanding how things work before the semester begins.
Building Your Community
Embark helps you begin forming meaningful connections with peers, mentors, and campus professionals. You will get the opportunity to start building a support network that can help you feel a sense of belonging and connection as you begin your Penn State journey.
Preparing for College Academics
You will explore what it means to transition from high school learning to college-level coursework. These sessions will focus on academic expectations, study strategies, time management, and other skills needed to succeed in a university environment.
Strengthening Self-Advocacy
You will reflect on your strengths, needs, and goals and develop the skills to advocate for yourself effectively.
Who Can Participate:
Embark is open to incoming first year students who have been accepted to Penn State and identify as being on the autism spectrum.
While a formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is not required to participate in the Embark program, students must meet specific documentation requirements to receive accommodations through Student Disability Resources.
More information about accommodation eligibility and documentation requirements can be found on the Student Disability Resources website: https://equity.psu.edu/offices/student-disability-resources/apply
Dates: June 7-June 12, 2026
Cost: $2,700
Application Deadline: April 10th
Registration Steps:
- Register at: [placeholder for registration link]
- You will receive an email confirmation after registering.
- We will email you in April with more details about arriving, housing, and the daily schedules.
- Email us with any questions throughout the process: [email protected]