Project Career

Abstract

Project Career, a five-year interdisciplinary demonstration project (2013-2018) funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, provides technological supports, combining Cognitive Support Technology (CST) and rehabilitation counseling, to improve postsecondary and employment outcomes for veteran and civilian undergraduate students with traumatic brain injury (TBI). The aim of this demonstration project is to provide a technology- and service-driven program to improve career and employment outcomes for undergraduate 2-year and 4-year college students with TBI. Project staff assess students' needs relative to assistive technology, academic achievement, and career preparation; provide CST training to students; match students with mentors; provide vocational case management; deliver job development and placement assistance. Participating students receive cognitive support technology training, academic supports, and career assistance from trained professionals at three sites. Staff address cognitive challenges using the 'Matching Person with Technology' assessment to accommodate CST use (iPad and selected applications). JBS International (JBS) provides the project's evaluation. To date, 117 students participate in the project. Of all participants, 63% report improved life quality and 75% report improved academic performance. Project Career provides national guidelines based on best practices for empowering postsecondary students with TBI to attain academic, employment, and career goals.