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Over 30 prospective students and their families from around the country gathered at Auburn’s College of Education on Sept. 11 to learn more about the Education to Accomplish Growth in Life Experiences for Success, or EAGLES, Program.

The annual EAGLES Preview Day event, held in Auburn’s College of Education Building, helped prospective students picture themselves as an EAGLE while giving families information about program fit, expectations, supports, admission and more. EAGLES is Auburn University’s comprehensive transition program for students with intellectual disabilities. From academics and wellness to independent living and career readiness, the EAGLES Program empowers students to thrive.

Vestavia Hills, Alabama, resident Laura Akin was thrilled to be on Auburn’s campus for the event.

“I’m so excited to see campus and visit because I have a bunch of friends who go to Auburn,” Akin said. “I’m also really excited to see the stadium and the basketball arena.”

Mason Chaput spent a week with the College of Education over the summer while attending the EAGLES Summer Bridge Program, and his experience was enough to bring him back from his hometown of Orlando, Florida, for preview day.

“I wanted to come because I want to live on my own and make new friends,” Chaput said. “I really liked the summer program and could see myself here.”

Katie Seibenman and her family traveled to campus from St. Louis, Missouri, to get a glimpse into college life at Auburn.

“I’m most excited about meeting new friends and taking a tour of the dorms,” Seibenman said.

Attendees began the day by meeting with the EAGLES team before heading into multiple information sessions regarding how the program works, what the student experience will be like and what makes a strong fit for the program. Then, prospective students learned more about life as an EAGLE while parents attended a Q&A session with EAGLES staff.

“Thriving is not perfection,” EAGLES Program Director Betty Patten said. “Thriving is growth with the right supports and real opportunities. In our program, students thrive when they are supported to participate, practice, make choices, learn from feedback and build the skills needed for adult life.”

College of Education Dean Jeffrey T. Fairbrother addressed the day’s crowd, emphasizing the importance of the EAGLES Program.

“EAGLES is about much more than coursework or a credential,” Fairbrother said. “It is about belonging, personal growth and becoming part of a community that will support and encourage you every step of the way. We are proud of the EAGLES program, grateful for the people who make it possible and excited about the lives that continue to be transformed through it.”

EAGLES Preview Day guests also heard from current students and families about their experience before attending several more information sessions. Throughout the day, attendees were encouraged to ask questions about all aspects of the program, and the event ended with an optional tour of campus.