- For years, Katelyn Kaechele’s future after high school felt overwhelming. Then she spent a week living on a college campus.
Katelyn was among a group of college-bound high school students with disabilities participating in Huskies BELONG (Building Effective Learning Opportunities and Network Guidance), a free immersive experience designed to prepare students for college life and careers in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM).
“I didn’t see her going away to college and living in a dorm right after high school,” her mom, Jamie, said. “The Huskies BELONG program helped us picture what could be possible.”
The program represents the culmination of nearly a decade of work for College of Health and Human Sciences Professor Bryan Dallas, Ph.D., CRC, LCPC. Dallas began envisioning a college-prep program for students with disabilities shortly after joining NIU.
“Individuals with disabilities are underrepresented in the workforce, particularly in STEAM career fields,” said Dallas. “Supporting the transition to college is one key piece in helping change that.”
Since 2023, Huskies BELONG has received $677,800 in grant funding from the Illinois Community College Board, including $199,800 awarded for the current year. Dallas and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Professor Shupei Yuan, Ph.D., are currently the co-principal investigators on the grant.
Huskies BELONG begins with a weeklong summer camp where students follow full schedules that blend academic, independent living, and social and recreational activities. They explore careers and participate in hands-on projects with faculty from the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, work with NIU Libraries staff, and meet with Career Services and disability support professionals to learn about assistive technology.
Katelyn admitted she was hesitant at first.
“I didn’t know what to expect,” she said. “But it gave me so much more confidence about being in a dorm and being on campus.
“I went in hesitant and left telling my mom I could stay for another week.”
Huskies BELONG continues throughout students’ senior year. Participants meet online with program staff and partners for ongoing support with accommodations and personal care, as well as guidance on college and financial aid applications, résumé building and job interview preparation.
“Having a team to connect with during her senior year has been wonderful,” Jamie said. “It’s helped her feel more secure and more open to exploring her future.”