VAST LIFE, offered through Penn GSE, is an innovative program designed for students ages 14–21.
The program provides personalized community-based experiences, transitional assessments, targeted lessons, and cultural events throughout Philadelphia. Graduate students pursuing a Master of Science in Education and Special Education Certification in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania curate these opportunities, tailoring them to the unique needs and interests of each participant.
All fees and food for the sessions are provided at no cost to families.
Criteria for Gaining Admission into VAST LIFE
- Must be 14-22 years of age at the time of enrollment
- Must be a PASA candidate in the state of Pennsylvania
- Must be able to attend all five sessions, including “snow date”
Program Highlights
- VAST LIFE participants will enjoy Penn's historic campus and the city of Philadelphia while working on community & transition skills.
- Participants will be selected to engage in various cultural and community experiences designed to educate and assess students with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the areas of social, life, vocational and transitional skills.
- Participants will receive one to one guidance and small group learning as they are provided with enriching opportunities on Penn's campus and the city as a whole.
- Participants will develop a greater understanding of:
- transportation
- awareness of skills required in leisure settings such as museums, theaters & social events
- functional math skills
- various types of jobs in our city and on a college campus
- pedestrian safety
How to Apply
Applications are closed for the 2025 season.
| Date/Time | Session | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 12/3/25: 5:30PM–7:30PM | Meet & Greet (Parents/guardians attend entire session with their child) | On campus at 3440 Market Street/5th Floor |
| 1/24/26: 10:00AM–4:00PM | Session #1 | On campus at 3440 Market Street/5th Floor |
| 2/21/26: 10:00AM–12:30PM | Session #2 | On campus at Stiteler Hall – drop off and pick up at 37th and Walnut Streets |
| 3/21/26: 10:00AM–4:00PM | Session #3 | On campus at Stiteler Hall – drop off and pick up at 37th and Walnut Streets |
| 4/11/26: 10:00AM–4:00PM | Session #4 | On campus at 3440 Market Street/5th Floor |
| 5/2/26: 10:00AM–4:00PM | Session #5 (Parents/guardians attend beginning at 2:00PM for our final family presentation.) | On campus at Stiteler Hall |
| *4/25/26 | Snow date makeup (if needed) | Location on Campus TBD |
Be sure to complete all three parts of the application.
Any questions?
Please send all questions and completed applications to Dr. Heather Hopkins. Applications will be considered for admittance on a first come first serve basis, as long as qualifications are met.