Lessons in LIFE: The first Panther LIFE Residential Program in images


For three weeks in May, 14 college-aged young people with intellectual disabilities came together to live at FIU’s Modesto A. Maidique Campus. Enrolled in the first Panther LIFE Residential Program, they settled in at the University Tower residence hall and participated in classroom discussions and activities designed to help them develop independent living skills. They studied nutrition, fitness, resumé writing, communication styles and relationship issues. Guided by FIU staff, among them FIU students who serve throughout the year as dormitory resident assistants, the young adults learned to create budgets and shopping lists, accomplished chores and cooked their own meals. They even tackled the infamous Team Ropes Adventure Challenge (TRAC) at Biscayne Bay Campus. FIU Magazine accompanied the group and documented its journey.