Backstories Breakthroughs
Stepping into adulthood can feel uncertain for young adults with learning disabilities (or neurodivergent young adults) – full of questions about independence, identity, and what comes next. Winston Transitions helps students move forward with confidence and clarity, turning “what ifs” into long-term success in life and learning.
Zoe’s Gap Year Journey
When Zoe graduated from high school in the spring of 2024, she made a thoughtful and brave decision: to defer her acceptance to San Francisco State University. While excited about college, Zoe recognized she wasn’t quite ready for the transition, and instead chose to take a gap year focused on growth.
Her goal was to build the foundational skills she knew would be essential for success in college and beyond: time management, daily routines, self-advocacy, and task initiation. Midway through the year, Zoe independently researched transition and gap year programs and discovered Winston Transitions San Francisco. She enrolled for a single semester, determined to finish her gap year with purpose and momentum.
Zoe also set her sights on gaining real-world employability skill development experience. Having volunteered at a local municipal library for nearly two years, she wanted to turn that experience into something more. With support from the Transitions team, Zoe leveraged her existing connection, built a professional resume, and honed her communication, interview, and job-search skills.
• PREPARATION PAID OFF •
OUT OF OVER 100 APPLICANTS, ZOE WAS ONE OF JUST SEVEN SELECTED TO INTERVIEW FOR A PAID POSITION AT THE LIBRARY, AND SHE GOT THE JOB!
Through this process, Zoe not only met her goals but exceeded them. She developed critical workplace and life skills, secured meaningful employment, and built the confidence to take on her next steps of college and employment, with a strong foundation, a willingness to step outside her comfort zone, and a resilient mindset.
Zoe’s story is a testament to the power of thoughtful planning, skill-building, and self-advocacy. At Winston Transitions, we’re proud to support young adults like Zoe as they bridge the gap between high school and adulthood, so they can be ready for what’s next.
Do you know someone who would benefit from the Transitions Program in New York or San Francisco? Please forward the information below to help them start their journey.
Winston Transitions is an individualized day program for students ages 17 to 21+ with learning differences, who need more time prior to launching into higher education or the workforce. Transitions provides flexible programming tailored to each student’s learning profile, social-emotional needs, and future goals.
Want to learn more?
Contact John Civita, Director of Transitions Programming, jcivita@winstonprep.edu or visit our website.