ROAR students and baseball players

Ready-to-ROAR

Discover new possibilities at WSU!

Experience college life at WSU

Explore new possibilities, build independence, and discover what college life can offer you!

Ready to ROAR is a free, six-day summer college experience for Washington high school students ages 16–18 with intellectual disabilities.

Participants will stay on the WSU Pullman campus, connect with peers, and explore college life alongside WSU ROAR program staff. Through hands-on experiences in academics, career exploration, independent living, and campus activities, students will discover their interests, build confidence, and envision their futures.

June 20-25, 2027 at WSU Pullman.

Picture of ROAR students at a presentation

Ready-to-ROAR at a glance

  • Dates: June 20-25, 2027
  • Location: Washington State University in Pullman
  • Who can apply: Students ages 16-18 with intellectual disabilities who currently attend high school in Washington State
  • Housing: WSU Olympia Hall
  • Cost: Free! Transportation, meals, lodging, activities, staffing, and supervision are included.

Discover What’s Possible at WSU!

Employment

Explore career interests and learn about skills used in the workplace. Learn about what careers you are interested in, and make steps to achieve your goals.

Academics

Experience learning in a college setting, explore strategies that work for you, and build confidence in asking questions, making choices, and taking an active role in your education.

Independent Living

Experience living in a college residence hall, connecting with peers, making everyday decisions, and exploring the skills and supports that help you live more independently.

Stay on Campus

Participants will live in Olympia Hall, a WSU residence hall, and experience what it’s like to live on a college campus.

WSU ROAR staff will lead daily activities and provide support and guidance throughout the six-day experience. Students will connect with peers, make choices, explore campus life, and build confidence and independence in a supportive college environment.


How to Apply

Ready-to-ROAR is open to students who:

  • Are ages 16-18.
  • Have an intellectual disability.
  • Attend high school in Washington State.
  • Have a cell phone available to use during the program.

Application materials

To apply, submit:

  1. A completed Ready-to-ROAR application
  2. Ready-to-ROAR Functional Skills Assessment
  3. References from two (2) current teachers
  4. A current Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

Teacher references will include questions about skills and support needs.

Ready to take the next step?

If you or someone you know is excited about joining the ROAR community, we’d love to hear from you. Learn more about the admissions process and start your application today!