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A Supportive Transition to College Program

A Curry student sits in the middle of a purple "C" on the Quad

Launching Fall 2026!

Curry Catalyst is a one-year structured, post-high school transition experience designed for students who benefit from additional support with social-emotional development, executive functioning, and personalized learning strategies. Whether your student is considering a gap year program or still exploring their path, Catalyst provides a flexible and supportive environment designed to help them thrive—academically, socially, and personally.

Is This Program Right for Your Student?

Curry Catalyst is a great fit for students who:

  • May have autism, ADHD, social anxiety, or other learning difference/disability, etc.
  • Want a structured, supportive start to college or career life
  • Prefer a lighter course load while building skills and confidence
  • Benefit from help with organization, time management, or social-emotional development
  • Are looking to boost independence and self-advocacy
  • Are exploring gap year options before committing to a full-time degree program

A Legacy of Supporting Diverse Learners

Rooted in our 50+ year legacy of supporting neurodiverse learners, Curry Catalyst builds on the College’s deep commitment to inclusive education. Hosted on the Curry College campus in Milton, Massachusetts—a welcoming, wooded, and serene setting just outside Boston—Catalyst combines small classes, personalized coaching, and hands-on learning to help students build confidence, strengthen essential skills, and prepare for what’s next.

What Students Gain from Catalyst

Earn Credits: Up to 15 college credits over the year

Get Support: One-on-one coaching and advising

Build Community: Social events and peer mentorship

Explore Careers: Resume building, interview prep, hands-on projects, and real-world internships

Strengthen Skills: Executive functioning, communication, and wellness workshops

Live on Campus: In a dedicated residence hall with full access to Curry’s amenities

Academic & Career Preparation

Students take college level writing, math, and a specialized course strengthening executive function skills designed to:

  • Build foundational academic skills
  • Improve organization and time management
  • Strengthen communication for college and career settings
  • Boost confidence in the classroom and beyond

Social Growth & Peer Support

  • Events, game nights, and community-building activities
  • Peer mentors/Curry students who offer guidance and encouragement
  • Opportunities to make friends and build independence

Wellness & Family Engagement

  • One-on-one coaching from advisors trained in supporting diverse learning needs
  • Access to assistive technology and wellness resources
  • Family sessions to help support the transition
  • Wellness Center and Fitness Center on campus

Infographic: Curry Catalyst is grounded in evidence-based best practices for supporting neurodivergent students & diverse learners: Individualized support, Strengths-based approach, Executive function & self-advocacy skills, and Peer mentorship

Learn more about these best practices

After Catalyst

Students leave the program ready to:

  • Enroll in a college degree program with earned credits
  • Pursue career opportunities with real-world skills
  • Continue growing with a strong foundation and support system

Take the Next Steps

Why should your student navigate this transition alone when Curry Catalyst offers the support, structure, and community they need to thrive?

Whether you're just starting to explore options or ready to move forward, we’re here to help guide your family through this exciting next chapter.

Let’s talk about what’s possible.

We’d love to hear your story and help your student take these next steps with confidence.

Curry College campus in autumn

Welcome to Boston's Backyard

Set in picture-perfect Milton, Massachusetts, Curry College’s 131-acre wooded campus is just seven miles from bustling, vibrant downtown Boston, a global hub of opportunity. Here you will experience a friendly, neighborly community of students, faculty, and staff who support and uplift your growth and well-being.