Adam Moss, a first year undergraduate student at The Ohio State University, has begun to make a remarkable impression on the Department of Political Science. As a member of the TOPs program, which is under the direction of the Nisonger Center, Adam began auditing an introductory level Comparative Politics course in the fall 2012 semester. It was during his time in the classroom that Adam began to realize his passion and career aspirations. In a recent interview, Adam remarked on how the political science courses have truly opened his eyes to the world of possibilities in government jobs. For his own goals, he hopes to someday be appointed as member of the President’s cabinet. With the help and guidance from the TOPS program, Adam started the next part of his life.

The Nisonger Center is one of the 27 recipients of an exciting and innovative five-year demonstration grant, funded by the Office of Postsecondary Education, to establish higher education experiences aimed at improving employment for transitioning-aged youth with intellectual and development disabilities (IDD). Transition Options in Postsecondary Settings for Students with Intellectual and Development Disabilities (TOPS) is a transitions option focused on empowering students to become self-determined adults by providing them college experiences including participation in college classes, internships, employment, and campus social life that are customized to each student’s interests and needs. The TOPS program is designed to be completed over a four-year term consisting of approximately 120 semester hours that includes four basic areas of transition study: academic enrichment and lifelong learning, vocational exploration and employment, independent living, and student development (social engagement/health and wellness). To learn more about the TOPS and the Nisonger Center please visit their website.

For Adam, the TOPS program has allowed him take part in all of the wonderful college experiences available at Ohio State. Adam not only attends classes, but is also an intern for the Disability Rights of Ohio. Professor Irfan Nooruddin from the Department of Political Science was the first professor for Adam in the political science major. He has helped Adam to establish a map of courses to take during his time at Ohio State that will give him exposure to each of the different fields political science has to offer.  Toi-Lin Van Horn, one of the TOPS Academic Advisors, said it makes her proud to be at Ohio State when she sees faculty engaging students with disabilities and asking what can they do to help further the student’s goals. In addition, Adam enrolled in an American Politics course this semester taught by Jess Goode, a graduate student.

Jess explains his experience with Adam: “It’s been a real privilege to have Adam in class. He’s a deeply engaged student who not only cares about learning the structures of American government but also how citizens can become involved in the process. He works hard on class assignments and is an active participant in the learning process, frequently staying after class to ask questions and learn more details.  It’s clear that his motivated and dedicated approach not only enriches this class but the wider OSU community as well. ”

We look forward to following Adam’s journey as he continues his college education at Ohio State University. We know that his story has touched our Department and we hope to help him work to achieve his goals.