Program Model
Opportunity Orange Scholars seeks to continue academic, career, interdependent living, and community engagement instruction at OSU in order to prepare students for employment and community living.
OOS is designed to provide an individually determined program of study for each student
centered around four program cornerstones:
- Academic Development: Students gain knowledge and skills to lead a self-determined life through enrollment in program-specific courses and inclusive university courses with natural support provided by OSU faculty and students as well as by trained Program Partners.
- Career Exploration & Preparation: Students work toward the goal of meaningful employment in a competitive job of choice through job shadowing, on and off-campus internships, and paid competitive employment with natural supports provided in the workplace as well as by program staff as needed.
- Interdependent Living: Students increase skills and experiences to lead a self-determined life through on-campus, inclusive living with natural supports from OSU Housing and Residential Life, Community Mentors and staff, OSU Dining Services, and other student residents, as well as from trained Residential Partners.
- Community Engagement & Belonging: Students build meaningful networks of peers and communities of belonging through participation in activities and organizations that promote self-determination both on campus and in the Stillwater community with supports from Engagement Partners.
In line with the four program cornerstones, the two-year (four-semester) OOS certificate program includes enrollment in a minimum of 48 credit hours (2400 clock hours) of program-specific and inclusive university courses, on-campus living in student housing, completion of on- and off-campus internships and employment, and engagement in campus and community activities. Through completion of program requirements, gain the knowledge, experience and skills to lead an enviable, self-determined life marked by meaningful community employment and belonging. Graduates of the program earn a university recognized certificate in Career and Community Studies as reflected on their official OSU Transcript.