Bear POWER (Promoting Opportunities for Work, Education and Resilience)
For this week’s blog post, our team wanted to give a short program update for prospective students, and families. Below are the main components of the Bear POWER program at Missouri State University, which we are referring to as: the Four Pillars of Bear POWER.
Four Pillars of Bear POWER
Academic
Students engage in the equivalent of 12 credits per semester through the combination of audited courses, support sessions and internships. They choose an “area of concentration” using person centered planning methods. After completion of five semesters in the program, students will get a Bear POWER certificate and walk in the graduation ceremony with their peers.
Social
Bear Blazers are Missouri State student volunteers who provide a “circle of support” and integration within academic and social settings for each Bear POWER student. Mentors provide support in the areas of academic, social, health and wellness.
Independent Living
It is a requirement for students to live on campus during their enrollment in the program. This provides them with countless opportunities to learn independent living skills. Through hands on experiences they will learn time management, basic cooking, cleaning and chores while living in a shared space.
Job Readiness
Career guidance and support is a critical part of the Bear POWER curriculum. Students will create a Person Centered Plan and identify their interests in employment areas upon graduation. Support sessions will assist students in developing a resume and practicing interview skills. Students will also be required to participate in internship experiences, both on campus and within the community.
Bear POWER Admissions criteria, checklist and a timeline can be found on our website missouristate.edu/bearpower. The application deadline is May 1, 2018 and the first cohort of up to ten Bear POWER students will start in January 2019.
Questions? Email bearpower@missouristate.edu
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