Bobcat RISE expands opportunities for students with disabilities at TXST

By Matthew Tobias  

Special Guest Reporter 

SAN MARCOS — The Bobcat RISE program at Texas State University provides students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to experience college life while building academic, social and career skills. 

Housed within the College of Education, Bobcat RISE is a four-year postsecondary program designed to promote independence and prepare students for employment. Participants enroll in university courses, engage in campus activities, and receive individualized support tailored to their goals and needs. 

“Ever since becoming a Texas State Student in the fall of 2024, about only 3 months after my high school graduation, I had been very passionate about making new friends and getting myself connected with my peers,” said Bobcat RISE sophomore Matthew Tobias. “The first ever day after moving into my apartments has been nerve racking as I have never been in a place full of people I don’t know. Unlike how it was in high school where everyone is from the same town and knows each other in college, everyone is from different places across the state, the country and the world and not everyone knows each other, and it is nowhere close to that. After months of being here I slowly started to become more comfortable and included as I got myself involved in a lot of groups, mainly church groups but also other groups.”

The program emphasizes a balance of academics, life skills, and career readiness. Students take part in internships and job training opportunities that help them develop practical experience in professional settings. At the same time, they learn essential daily living skills such as time management, communication, and decision-making. 

Bobcat RISE also encourages full participation in campus life. Students are integrated into the Texas State community through clubs, events and peer mentorship, helping them build relationships and a sense of belonging. 

By focusing on inclusion and independence, the program reflects a broader effort to expand access to higher education. Bobcat RISE aims to equip students with the tools needed to succeed beyond college and become active members of their communities. 

“How I felt being a part of Bobcat RISE as a Freshman was very nervous and emotional because as someone with Autism I felt very isolated as a newcomer to college but however I have people apart of Bobcat RISE such as the Director and the BCR staff has helped me work through my way through my freshman year. The most common places you will find me on campus will be at the LBJ Student Center, Jones Dining Center, and the Alkek Library. Other places you won’t find me as much would include Sewell Park and The REC center since I often go there alone and I often don’t see any of my friends that those places. Whenever I am walking around San Marcos off campus I hardly see any of my friends both in and out of Bobcat RISE because I often go places alone but I do sometimes hang out with my church group friends off campus. Now I am about to finish my sophomore year and enter my Junior year, I have now felt more belonged and included in the Texas State community since I first got here during the beginning of my freshman year. I cannot wait to see what my Junior and Senior will show me as I will graduate in 2028 .”