University of California Davis Redwood SEED Scholars Program

The UC Davis Redwood SEED (Supported Education to Elevate Diversity) Scholars Program, is a new program designed for students ages 18-23 who have intellectual disabilities. Through this four-year program, students will study on campus at UC Davis and enjoy support from peer mentors in academics and health and wellness. Redwood SEED Scholars will take part in internships both on and off campus with the goal of competitive, integrated employment. They will also live alongside other UC Davis students in on-campus housing and participate in extracurricular clubs and organizations. Promoting personal growth, self-determination and choice are key objectives of the program.

How the Program Works

Students will live on campus in the dorms with the support of typical students. A distinct component of the program is specialized foundational courses that SEED Scholar students will take, which have been developed specifically to help them gain the skills needed to participate in typical UC Davis classes on campus. Students will also take two or three campus courses each year with academic support. In addition, students will have the opportunity to participate in any campus club or organization that interests them, with support as needed.

Students will engage in one employment opportunity per quarter, beginning in Spring quarter or as students are ready. These employment opportunities are carefully created to offer a ladder of support and designed to build on the skill and interest levels of each student. Additionally, recognizing the health disparities of students with intellectual disabilities when compared to the typical population, we will also have health and wellness mentors working with students on nutrition, exercise and general good health habits.

Program Benefits

The Redwood SEED Scholars Program features a person-centered plan focused on self-determination, including:

• Exploration: Take courses with typical peers in their area of interest
• Education: Receive targeted instruction in literacy, math and specialized courses along with technology and communication skills
• Independent Living: Live in on-campus housing and learn living skills like grocery shopping, laundry, meal planning and personal hygiene
• Health and Wellness: Receive nutrition and exercise mentors
• Leisure Skills/Community: Social mentors provide support in participation with on-campus clubs, activities and special events
• Employment: Quarterly internships promote job skills, navigating public transportation, planning for work, communication skills, leadership skills and advocacy skills

Program Details

• How to Apply: Application opens January 14, 2022
• Deadline to Apply: March 1, 2022
• Application Requirement: Completed online application form with payment of $100 nonrefundable application fee, plus two letters of recommendation (one in education and one in employment or volunteer/extracurricular activities) submitted online by March 1, 2022.
• Tuition: $10,000, plus fees of $2027 *costs subject to change for 2022
• Housing and meal plan: $15,775 *costs subject to change for 2022
• Program Start Date: September 19, 2022

Classrooms