DO-IT Scholars
Preparing high school students with disabilities for college, careers, and leadership.
You can also read this content in Spanish, Russian, or Vietnamese.
DO-IT Scholars are Washington State high school students with disabilities planning to continue their education after they graduate. Scholars prepare for their transition to college—which includes exploring careers, independence, self-advocacy, and leadership.
Scholars gain knowledge and skills for success in college programs and challenging careers through the following opportunities:
- Research postsecondary programs and learn how to apply for college.
- Explore different areas of study and possibilities for degree focus.
- Learn to select and use adaptive technology, software, and Internet resources.
- Learn about reasonable accommodations at school and in the workplace.
- Explore careers and the world of work.
- Network with peers and working professionals with disabilities.
- Participate in leadership opportunities.
Phase I DO-IT Scholars attend a two-week Summer Study—one week online and one week living on the University of Washington Seattle—campus returning the following two summers, as Phase II Scholars and Interns, for further college and career preparation and an internship.
- First year Phase I Scholars attend their first Summer Study in late July, staying ten nights on UW campus.
- Scholars engage with peers, staff, and mentors online and in-person throughout the year.
- Second year, Phase II Scholars complete a project at home throughout the year and return a second summer to present to staff and peers.
- Phase II Scholars engage in a more intensive week-long project at their second Summer Study.
- After graduating Phase II, Scholars are eligible to be interns during their third Summer Study.
- Scholars graduating high school become DO‑IT Ambassadors and continue to connect, gain valuable resources, and mentor younger Scholars.
Who is Eligible
DO-IT Scholars is a competitive program that accepts a cohort of 15-20 students per year. A qualified applicant fits all of the following criteria:
- is a high school sophomore or junior
- has a disability
- lives or attends school in Washington State
- has aptitude and interest in studying at a college
DO-IT’s Advisory Board evaluates applicants based on all the information provided in the application submissions. The Board considers an applicant’s interest and aptitude for college studies, motivation to participate in DO‑IT, contribution to the diversity of the program, and perceived benefit from program offerings.
Information about current and past Scholars can be found in our annual Snapshots yearbook.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted throughout the school year for the upcoming summer. However, priority is given to applications received by January 30th. Applications received after that date are considered on a space-available basis.
Submitting the Student Application early allows us to know you are interested and keep in contact throughout the rest of the application process. A complete application includes the following:
- Student Application
- Parent/Guardian Recommendation and Consent
- High School Teacher, Administrator, or Counselor Recommendation
- Student’s Current Grade Report/Transcript
- Grade Report/Transcript Request Form
Application materials can be found within this brochure or online and may be submitted by postal mail, fax, email, or online.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are DO-IT Scholars charged for instructional materials, housing, meals, activities, and accommodations such as sign language interpreters at Summer Study sessions?
No. - Can I apply for funding to assist with the costs associated with travel and/or hiring personal care assistants?
Yes. - Students with what types of disabilities are eligible to apply?
Scholars can have any type of disability recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act, including both those with or without IEP or 504 plans. - Is previous experience working with computers required?
No; however, an interest and willingness to develop computer skills and engage online is essential. - When are applicants notified of the Advisory Board’s decisions?
Most applicants are notified between March and June. - Should applicants have specific academic interests?
No, we accept students with a variety of academic interests and career goals. - When are the Summer Study sessions held?
Phase I Summer Study typically occurs during the last two weeks of July. Second year, Phase II Summer Study typically occurs during the last week of July. - Who do I contact with my questions?
Email us at doit@uw.edu or call 206-685-DOIT. Further information can be found online.
Contact Information
DO-IT, University of Washington (UW)
Box 354842, Seattle, WA 98195-4842
doit@uw.edu
uw.edu/doit/
206-685-DOIT (3648) (voice / TTY)
888-972-DOIT (3648) (toll free)
206-221-4171 (FAX)
509-328-9331 (voice/TTY) Spokane
Funding
DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology) serves to increase the successful participation of individuals with disabilities in challenging academic programs.
Primary funding for DO-IT Programs is provided by the National Science Foundation, Washington State, and the U.S. Department of Education. Learn about our other funders and how you can support DO-IT.
Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of our funders.
Acknowledgment
This material is based upon original work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 9255803. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.
Copyright © 2019, 2013, 2011, 2010, 2008, 2005, 2000, 1998, 1995, 1992, University of Washington. Permission is granted to copy these materials for educational, non‑commercial purposes provided the source is acknowledged.