Rock Life Program

Our Mission:

Slippery Rock University's (SRU) Rock Life program is a recognized comprehensive transition and postsecondary program (CTP), that provides a 4-year, non-degree, certificate-based experience, for students with intellectual disabilities. Rock Life creates an on-campus environment of individual autonomy, by providing intentional person-centered programming, in four foundational areas: academic enrichment, social engagement, wellness, and competitive integrated employment; allowing our students to experience a robust and inclusive college experience.

Rock life is committed to supporting the vision of SRU: “Slippery Rock University will excel as a caring community of lifelong learners connecting with the world.”

Rock Life Application

Please note, the application is a PDF document and needs to be turned in via USPS mail or emailed to rocklife@sru.edu.

Rock Life Staff

Dr. Natalie E. Burick

Portrait Natalie Burick

Dr. Natalie E. Burick

Title: Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Rock Life
Email: natalie.burick@sru.edu
Phone: 724.738.4810

Burick is one of our Assistant Dean of Students and provides access, care, and support to students connected with the Dean of Student's offices. Dr. Burick has worked at SRU for 15 years in many student facing roles such as Housing and Residence Life, Disability Services, and the Office for Global Engagement. She is a double alum of SRU and earned her doctorate from Indiana University of PA. Her office also provides support for students, faculty, and staff through programming and trainings related to disability, care, and case management practices. Dr. Burick and her staff are strong advocates for all students and strive to assist students in meeting their academic and personal goals.

Mr. Zachery Brown

Mr. Zachery Brown

Title: Assistant Director of Rock Life
Email: zachery.brown@sru.edu
Phone: 724.738.4739

Zach is the Assistant Director of the Rock Life program. The Rock Life program provides individuals with intellectual disabilities an opportunity for an inclusive college experience. While in the program students work to bolster independent living, socialization and vocational skills. Zach provides day-to-day oversite of the program.

Zach is a double alum of SRU. He earned his B.S. in Psychology, in 2014, and his M.A in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2018. During the summer of 2018, Zach took a seasonal Unit Leader position at Camp Southern Ground (CSG) in Georgia. CSG was created by Zac Brown of the Zac Brown Band. In his role as Unit Leader, Zach provided direct support to camp counselors and their campers. In the fall of 2018 Zach took the role of Disability Services Coordinator at Grove City College, in PA. Zach was responsible for providing reasonable accommodations for students on campus until his return to SRU in 2023.

In his free time, Zach enjoys playing his guitar, going to concerts and spending time with his family and friends.

Mr. Roman Carnes

Mr. Roman Carnes
Title: Rock Life Program Coordinator
Email: roman.carnes@sru.edu
Phone: 724.738.2489

Roman is a Rock Life Coordinator for the Rock Life program. The Rock Life program provides individuals with intellectual disabilities an opportunity for an inclusive college experience. While in the program, students work to bolster independent living, socialization, and vocational skills. Roman works in tandem with the Assistant Director to provide day-to-day oversite of the program.

Roman is a double alum of SRU. He earned his B.A. in 2023 in Communication Studies, and his M.A. in 2025 in Student Affairs in Higher Education. Roman has worked in many areas across Higher Education including Residence Life, Success Coaching, Orientation, Admissions, Academic Advising and Student Engagement & Leadership. Roman is a first-generation college graduate and enjoys giving to his students what higher education gave to him.

Program Pillars

I - Academic Enrichment

Rock Life is a non-degree seeking program, which means the students are taking classes without working towards a full degree. Students audit 2-3 courses per semester. Though encouraged to complete 100% of the assigned work, auditing courses allows for flexibility in the assigned coursework as needed. General feedback from faculty is provided, rather than graded results. While students do not earn a final grade, exposure to material creates an inclusive college experience, while also bolstering social interaction, time management, and organization skills.

II - Career Exploration

In addition to attending classes, students in Rock Life will be given the opportunity to engage in campus work to expand their college experience. On-campus vocational opportunities begin at the start of a students’ second year in the program. Vocational sites may be a paid or unpaid experience. It is the discretion of the vocational site, if payment is feasible. Program staff and college coaches will assist each student in the process of applying and exploring campus jobs in their area of interest. Vocational workshops provided throughout each semester (i.e., resume building, interview skills, effective communication, interest inventories).

Vocational sites include but are not limited to:

Abersold Recreation Center
Storm Harbor Equestrian Center
Childcare Center
Confrence Services
Disability Services
University Food Pantry
University Bookstore
University Sports Teams

In the final year of the program, students will present a personal capstone project that summarizes their 4-year program experience.

III - Health and Wellness

The Rock Life Program focuses on lifelong health and wellness for the students. Students are offered opportunities to participate in a 1-on-1 personal trainer (when available) on first come first serve basis, a variety of intramural sports and recreational activities (yoga, spinning, swimming etc.) Students and their peer coach will also plan weekly physical activity. In addition to the structured peer coach activities, students are eligible to go to the recreation center, at their leisure.

Additionally, all Rock Life students are permitted access to the on-campus health and counseling centers.

IV - Social Engagement

Group of Students Gathering

Life students participate in fully inclusive social programs on the University's campus. SRU has over 200 clubs and organizations available to students. Students are required to join a minimum of one club or organization on campus. Students do not need to stay in the same club or organization for the duration of the program. Students are welcome and encouraged to explore a variety of involvement opportunities. In addition to the campus-wide opportunities, the Rock Life program provides 1-2 programs per week. Most social events are voluntary. Program staff will inform students if an event is required.

Rock Life specific programs include but are not limited to:

Biweekly bowling
Speed Friending
Money Management
Healthy Relationships
Board game Nights
Stress Management
Small Meal Preparation
Navigating Conflict
Grocery Shopping

Additional Information:

Tuition and Fees

Estimated Student Costs – In State

Estimated Tuition	Estimated Fees	Rock Life Fee	Room	Dining Plan	Totals
$322.00 per credit ($2,997.00 for 9 credits)	$1,083.87 for 9 credits	$3,850 per semester $2,000 per semester for commuter students	$3,684 for double studio	$1,766 per semester	$13,380.87 per semester

This information is estimated based on 3 courses per semester, and a weekly-14 meal plan. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Estimated Student Cost – Out of State

Estimated Tuition	Estimated Fees	Rock Life Fee	Room	Dining Plan	Totals
$666 per credit ($5,994.00 for 9 credits)	$1,173.87 for 9 credits	$3,850 per semester $2,000 per semester for commuter students	$3,684 for double studio	$1,766 per semester	$16,467.87 per semester

This information is estimated based on 3 courses per semester, and a weekly-14 meal plan. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Please note, all Rock Life students are charged a Rock Life program fee, SRU tuition/fees, Room and Board. Program fees and tuition costs may vary for each student depending on commuter status, out of state residence, and number of credits audited. Additional cost information can be located on the SRU tuition and fees page and housing fees page.

Financial Aid and College Planning Resources

Students enrolled in the Rock Life program may be eligible for a variety of state and community resources.

Important Note: Rock Life is a non-degree certificate program. Students are not eligible for traditional federal student aid.

Students can use the following to pay for the Rock Life program.

PELL Grant - Rock Life is recognized as a certified transition program (CTP). This makes our program PELL grant eligible. To determine eligibility for the PELL Grant, students and their families must complete the FAFSA.
Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver - Consolidated Waiver, Community Living Waiver and Person/Family Directed Support Waiver may be available for families. These funds support assistive technology, supported employment and education support services, which can cover tuition, general fees, and support on campus.*All states have an equivalent, though support will vary state-to-state.
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) - If eligible, OVR helps pay for a portion of educational expenses.*All states have an equivalent, though support will vary state-to-state.
DREAM Partnership Scholarship - Once accepted into the Rock Life Program, students will automatically qualify for the scholarship. Awarded amounts will vary student-to-student. Students must submit all application materials by the annual deadline. The DREAM Scholarship is a separate entity from SRU. Rock Life staff do not play any role in award determination.
Ruby’s Rainbow Scholarship - Scholarship designated for individuals with Down Syndrome. Awarded amounts will vary student-to-student. Students must submit all application materials by the annual deadline. Ruby’s Rainbow is a separate entity from SRU. Rock Life staff do not play any role in award determination.
PA ABLE Accounts - The Pennsylvania ABLE Savings Program (PA ABLE) is a state-offered program that gives individuals with qualifying disabilities a tax-advantaged way to save or invest without impacting their government benefits.
529 College Savings Plans - PA 529 accounts offer tax-advantaged savings that don’t impact PA state financial aid, plus the account can be used to pay for a wide variety of education expenses at any qualified educational institution, from K-12 to college to career training programs. PA 529 accounts can also be used for certain costs associated with apprenticeships and credential programs, as well as student loan repayments (within limits).
Social Security Benefits - Individuals who have a disability or medical condition that prevent them from working may be eligible for Social Security benefits.
Self-Pay - Students and their families may choose to self-pay for all, or a portion of the Rock Life program. Students and their families are responsible for any outstanding program cost not covered by other funding sources.

Other College Planning Resources

Achieva - A Pittsburgh based organization that provides a variety of resources to individuals with disabilities in Pennsylvania.
Center for Community Resources- A county wide service provider for Pennsylvania residents.
Think College - Think College provides resources, technical assistance and training related to college options for students with intellectual disability and manages the only national listing of college programs for students with intellectual disability in the United States.

Admission Criteria

Have a documented diagnosis of an intellectual or developmental disability as defined by the American Association on Intellectual Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD)
Intellectual disability is diagnosed before age of 22
IQ ranges between 70-75
Impairment of adaptive behaviors such as: language, social skills, time management, handling of finances, daily living, etc.
Be at least 18 years old prior to the start of the academic year. The program will accept applicants between the ages of 18-26.
Have completed a minimum of four years of high school and/or a vocational program and would not otherwise be an eligible applicant for a four-year matriculating college program
Must be able to present a high school diploma or equivalent. If you have not yet graduated high school and wish to apply with school district funding, please let us know upon turning in your application. You will be responsible for working out payment and fee structure with your high school.
Demonstrate basic mathematics and reading skills
Demonstrate basic writing skills, using a computer or legible handwriting
Demonstrate ability to navigate a college campus with minimal supervision
Demonstrate the ability to use technology, such as a smart phone, computer, or tablet
Demonstrate basic safety skills in unsupervised settings.
Demonstrate the ability to live in student housing (should you choose this option) with limited support.
Demonstrate the ability to adapt to change without becoming overtly stressed or anxious.
Demonstrate the ability to accept responsibility for their actions and show respect for self and others, by following the SRU Student Code of Conduct while attending the Rock Life program and all campus events and activities. (*Disruptive or aggressive behaviors could result in a withdrawal from the RL program).
Be able to attend a 50-75-minute course period, appropriately and independently during the time; college coach support may be provided. This will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Demonstrate the ability to fully navigate the SRU campus and to independently locate their classes after their student orientation.
Be able to learn and follow an academic schedule, including being on-time and prepared for class.

Applicants must be independent in handling their own medications, specialized dietary and/or medical needs.

Please note: The Rock Life program does not manage medications, behavioral issues, and/or concerns with independent living.

Application Timeline and Process

The Rock Life program provides an open enrollment process. New cohorts start every fall semester (August). Interested applicants may submit their application at any time. Consideration will be given to all applications received by January 15^th of the planned year of enrollment. Applications received after January 15^th of the planned year of enrollment will be placed on a waitlist. Submission of an application does not guarantee admission. On average, 8-10 applicants are accepted each year.

Submit Application: Submit application by January 15^th of the planned year of enrollment. Example: Planned year of enrollment – Fall 2027 – Application deadline January 15^th, 2027
Application Review: Program staff will review application materials.
Campus Tour: Applicant and their family visits campus for a program tour. This can be done at any point in the application process.
Zoom Interview #1: A virtual interview is scheduled with the applicant and their family (end of January – early February)
Zoom Interview #2: A second virtual interview is scheduled with the applicant and their family. (end of February – early March)
Decision: Applicants will be informed of the acceptance decision. (mid-March – end of March)

Rock Life Application Dates	Dates
Due date for applications	January 15, 2027
Interview dates	January-February, 2027
Date to notify of acceptance	Mid-March 2027

Housing/Commuting Options

On Campus:
Having a roommate is fundamental part of a traditional college experience. Rock Life students are given the option to live on campus, in residence hall B. Through the interview process, Rock Life staff will determine roommate pairings. Rock Life students will room with only other Rock Life students. Depending on the assigned dorm room, there may be 2-4 students per room.

Commuters:
Rock Life students are eligible to commute to campus and receive the same amount of support an on-campus student would receive in terms of peer coaching. Commuters are still expected to work on skills in all four of the Rock Life pillars. Rock Life staff will work directly with the family to determine a reasonable schedule, given the amount of travel. Families who choose to commute are solely responsible for travel to and from campus.

Additional information can be located on the housing information page.

Peer Coaches

Students in a row

Rock Life provides 1-to-1 peer coaching for all students enrolled in the program. The peer coaches are current SRU matriculating students, who provide a minimum of 5 contact hours per week, with a maximum of 10 hours per week. The role of a peer coach is to be the first friend on campus and first level of support for Rock Life students. Students and coaches work collaboratively to develop a structured weekly schedule. Structured activities may include but are not limited to:

Weekly meals (coaches will not eat every meal with their student)
Time management and organization.
Course assignment assistance (coaches do not attend classes with their student
Weekly physical activity
Attending university and Rock Life specific events

Program Visitation

If you are interested in learning more about the Rock Life program, touring campus, or would like to set up a meeting via Zoom, please email rocklife@sru.edu.

Rock Life Open House

Rock Life will be hosting an open-house events:

Wednesday, November 18^th, 2026 – 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Wednesday, April 7^th, 2027 – 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

If interested in the open house days, please RSVP by emailing rocklife@sru.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am interested in applying. Do I apply through the traditional university process?
No, Rock Life has a separate application and process. The application is available on our program website.

I would like to learn more about the program and tour campus. Should I contact Admissions?
No, if you are interested in learning more about the Rock Life program, touring campus, or would like to set up a meeting via Zoom, please email rocklife@sru.edu.

Can students try taking a course for credit?
No, Rock Life is non-degree certificate program. Students in the program audit their courses.

What if students only complete 1-3 years of the program. Do they still receive a certificate?
No, Students will need to complete 4 years to receive the university recognized certificate.

Can students have more than one Peer Coach?
Yes, all students start with at least one Peer Coach. Through ongoing collaboration with the student, their family and Rock Life staff, it may be determined that additional support is needed.

Can Rock Life students live off campus?
No, off campus housing is not owned by SRU. Therefore, the same level of support cannot be provided, if living off campus.

What support is available for Rock Life students?
Rock Life does not provide 24/7 supervision. Rock Life students have access to all support resources available to university students. In addition, Rock Life students receive 5-10 hours per week of peer coaching, and weekly meetings with professional program staff. Program staff are also available to the students via text or call if needed.

Services for Students with Disabilities