Edge Foundation Announces Unique Scholarship for Students With ADHD Offered in Partnership With Shire

SEATTLE, May 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Students with ADHD struggle with the difficult transition from high school to higher education.  Studies indicate that between 50 to 95 percent(1) of college students with ADHD drop out.  Edge is pleased to partner with Shire to offer a unique new scholarship program aimed at these students.  Twenty-five graduating high school seniors who will start a higher education program in fall 2011 will receive a $2,000 scholarship and a full year of ADHD coaching services provided by the Edge Foundation.  The deadline to apply is July 7, 2011.  Scholarships will be awarded on August 9, 2011.  Details available at www.ShireADHDScholarship.com.

"This scholarship is unique because students will not only have access to a higher education, but they will receive additional tools to help them make the transition," said Robert Tudisco, Edge Foundation Executive Director.  "Edge coaches will provide students with structure, support and accountability as they leave home and continue their education.  With help students learn the skills they need to provide these things for themselves."

According to Kelsey Peterson, a college student successfully coached through the Edge model, "The transition to college was very difficult because of my ADHD.  It wasn't until I started working with my coach that I felt empowered enough to take charge of my life and succeed."  

Coaching helps students gain personal insight, learn to gravitate toward their strengths and navigate around their weaknesses.  Says Tudisco, "We applaud Shire for recognizing the need for coaching and making it available proactively for students entering higher education.  No student should have to fail in order to receive support."  

Last year, Edge concluded a two-year study into the effectiveness of ADHD coaching on students in 10 colleges nationwide.  The study results (available at edgefoundation.org) showed that the students who were coached showed dramatic increases in self regulation and an overall improvement in their approach to learning.

The Edge Foundation is a nonprofit that offers supplemental treatment nationwide for students with ADHD.  Founded in 2005, its mission is to help every child, adolescent and young adult with ADHD to fully realize their own potential, personal vision and passion through personal coaching.

(1) Los Angeles Times, May 15, 2011,  http://articles.latimes.com/2011/may/15/health/la-he-ritalin-q-a-20110515

SOURCE Edge Foundation