College Program For Developmentally-Delayed Adults Sees Strong Start
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- In its first year, Bloomington-based Beyond Limits is already off to a great start. The two-year college is designed to help developmentally-delayed young adults learn valuable life skills.
Just like any four-year institution, the goal of Beyond Limits is to help students prepare for the working world. Spend a day on campus with five Beyond Limits students, and they will share their excitements and disappointments of their freshman year.
"My roommate is Brittany," said Kerri Shay, a Hopkins High School graduate, describing who she shares her dorm with. "I like her a lot."
The students enrolled in the program live on the Bethany College of Missions campus, have assigned roommates, and are required to participate in work study to help pay their tuition.
"Today I get to start a brand new job," said Brandon Ziemke, who's father, Steve, helped start the program.
Ziemke's job is called "window." He greets students and staff in the cafeteria. Originally, he was working back in the kitchen, but wanted to be around more people.
"I'm excited, because I get to see everyone," he said.
The students, just like all rookies, share the ups and downs of college life.
"I like it here, but this wasn't my first college choice," said 22-year-old Andy Iskierka. He wanted to be a golden Gopher, now his focus is on studying theology and cultivating new relationships.
Bethany College President Dan Brokke believes the benefits of the program's first year have greatly impacted the entire campus.
"It's brought a practical way for the Beyond Limits and our students to be partners in what they are doing every day," Brokke said.
David Guess, the resident advisor for three male students, helps them stay engaged.
"On Tuesdays we do a dinner together and read a story," Guess said. "Saturday, we cook breakfast together. I am responsible for making sure they are getting dressed properly in the morning, watching the right shows on television and social activities."
Beyond the classroom, students learn valuable life skills, like buying groceries on a budget, being accountable at work, and cooking healthy meals.
No matter what the task, these students are enjoying the freedoms that college brings.
"I like that I don't have my parents around all the time," Ziemke said.
"As I've been here I realize, I fit in and I can be who I am which is my bubbly self," Shaysaid.
Tuition for the program is $17,500 for the academic year, but students help bring the cost down by working on campus. They are currently accepting applications and have space for 5-10 students next year.
To learn more about the program, click here.
