Franklin College Connections
Since Franklin Academy began, students and their families have always asked, can we have MORE! Franklin College Connections was born to fill that space after graduation. We serve a range of post-graduates — both from Franklin and from other high schools. This holistic program bridges the gap, helping students with a variety of profiles find their way to success in higher education and beyond. Franklin College Connections serves academic stars headed to elite universities and students who aren’t certain if college is even for them. .
Why Choose a Post-Graduate Year?
For many students, the transition from high school to college or the workforce is not a straight line. It’s normal—and often beneficial—to take additional time to develop the skills and confidence needed for long-term success. This is especially true for neurodivergent students, who may require more time to hone their academic readiness, executive functioning, social abilities, and independent living skills.
Post-graduate (PG) years are not new. Traditionally, student-athletes have taken an extra year to refine their skills, grow physically and mentally, and find the right college fit. Neurodivergent students deserve the same opportunity—to develop their strengths, explore their options, and ensure they are truly prepared for the next stage of life.
Today, students have more transition options than ever before, including specialized gap year programs, certificate pathways, and targeted transition programs. However, a post-graduate year remains one of the most natural and supportive ways to bridge the gap between high school and post-secondary life. A PG year allows students to remain in a familiar environment with trusted faculty and staff while gradually increasing independence, taking academic and social risks, and developing essential life skills.
At Franklin College Connections, we recognize the importance of this scaffolded approach. Our post-graduate year program provides students with structured support while encouraging them to explore new environments and build the resilience needed for lifelong success. With the right balance of challenge and safety net, students leave their PG year confident, prepared, and ready to thrive in higher education or the workforce.
Our Approach to Transition Planning
At Franklin College Connections (FCC), we recognize that every student’s journey is different. Some of our students come from Franklin Academy, eager to continue honing their academic and life skills. Others are deferring traditional college enrollment to explore a boarding program before matriculating. Some are still determining what their next steps should look like. No matter the path that led you here, FCC’s student-centered approach ensures that your transition plan is as unique as you are.
Unlike other programs, FCC provides personalized transition planning designed to create an individualized roadmap for your post-graduate year. From day one, you and your family will work closely with our expert team to assess your educational history, clarify your goals, and chart a meaningful course forward. This culminates in a personal transition plan that focuses on:
- Academic & College Readiness – Together, we will identify specific academic objectives, work with our Associate Dean of College and Career Counseling to explore enrollment options and outline key strengths and growth areas to focus on in the classroom.
- Independent Living Development – Our team will guide you in establishing concrete plans for residence life, daily routines, self-care, social engagement, and emotional well-being, ensuring a strong foundation for independent success.
- Personalized Growth & Motivation – Understanding your aspirations is essential. Whether you want to strengthen executive functioning skills, explore social opportunities, or gain confidence in your academic abilities, we’ll help you define and achieve meaningful progress.
Your pre-program plan isn’t just a static document—it’s a living roadmap that evolves alongside you. Throughout the year, we continually assess and refine your plan based on your experiences, challenges, and newfound opportunities. Whether it’s trying out college coursework, engaging in social activities, or building essential life skills, we ensure that your transition is seamless and empowering.
At FCC, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We believe in your journey, your goals, and your success. Let’s build your future — together.
A New Way to College
At Franklin College Connections (FCC), we believe that the moment a student graduates high school and steps into a college environment, they are a college student—and they deserve the right support to thrive. For many neurodivergent students, the challenge isn’t just academics; it’s mastering the hidden curriculum of college life—self-advocacy, executive function, problem-solving, and balancing academic and social demands.
That’s where FCC changes the game. Unlike traditional gap-year or transition programs, we provide real college experiences with built-in support to help students bridge the gap between high school and a successful college career.
- Students take up to 15 college credits throughout the academic—the equivalent of a full semester—while developing the critical skills needed for independence:
- Navigating Accommodations – Understanding and advocating for support in a college setting
- Self-Monitoring & Study Strategies – Learning how to manage coursework proactively
- Problem-Solving & Adaptability – Building resilience when faced with challenges
- Academic & Social Balance – Managing the rigors of coursework alongside a fulfilling social life.
Through coursework at Middlesex Community College (off-campus) and a partnership with the University of Connecticut (on-campus), students earn college credit in a flexible, low-pressure setting, giving them a head start on their academic journey. By immersing them gradually and intentionally, students explore their interests, test their abilities, and develop the confidence to transition into a full-time, residential college experience.
FCC isn’t just about preparing for college—it’s about becoming a college student with the skills, experience, and mindset to succeed. Are you ready for a new way to college? Let’s build your future together.
Career Exploration & Preparation
The traditional path from high school to college is evolving, and at Franklin College Connections (FCC), we recognize that every student’s journey to success looks different. With the rising debate over the value of a four-year degree, more students—especially those with IEPs—are identifying technical training and hands-on work experience as key transitional goals after graduation. However, just like college, entering the workforce is a complex process that requires critical skill development in executive functioning, social interaction, and distress tolerance. That’s why FCC is committed to providing a scaffolded approach to career exploration, ensuring students build confidence and competence every step of the way.
All students at FCC engage in academic coursework, but for those interested in exploring career opportunities, we offer a structured, real-world approach to skill-building. Our internal Student Internship Program allows students to work in central offices on campus for 6-12 hours per week, gaining hands-on experience in workplace dynamics, problem-solving, task management, and sustaining focus for extended periods. As students build confidence and demonstrate readiness, they have the opportunity to increase their hours and transition to external internships, all with the guidance and support of their advisor.
Beyond internships, students can also enroll in technical or certificate programs. Through local partnerships—such as a rescue farm initiative—or coursework at Middlesex Community College, students can gain industry-specific skills that align with their interests and career aspirations. For those ready to take the next step, working part-time in one of our many locally owned businesses provides an additional layer of hands-on learning and professional development.
At FCC, career exploration is not just about finding a job—it’s about building a sustainable, independent future. Students work closely with their advisors to craft resumes, navigate the job application process, and develop the organizational strategies needed to balance work, academics, and personal responsibilities. With a supportive campus environment that helps students prioritize, plan their day, and adjust to new social and professional settings, we ensure that every graduate is prepared for long-term success—whether in the workforce, in college, or beyond.
Residential Life
At Franklin College Connections (FCC), residential life is more than just where you live—it’s where you grow, connect, and prepare for life beyond high school. Our unique housing model gives students a true taste of independent living while ensuring they have the structure and support they need to thrive. FCC students live in small, intentional houses that accommodate 4 to 12 post-graduate students—designed to foster independence while building community. Spread around the external part of our campus, these residences create a college-like living experience, where students share space, manage responsibilities, and practice the skills necessary for successful adulthood. While staff members live adjacent to all housing, students experience the realities of living with roommates or housemates, balancing personal space with communal living.
Residential life at FCC is structured for growth, helping students develop essential skills for independent living:
- Daily Living Mastery – Learning how to manage laundry, personal care, and home upkeep,
- Shared Responsibilities – Taking part in house maintenance and organizing “family meals,”
- Financial & Meal Planning – Budgeting for groceries, meal prepping, and cooking together, and
- Healthy Living Habits – Understanding nutrition, kitchen safety, and self-care
While all students have a meal plan, they also work alongside their advisors to grocery shop, budget, and prepare communal meals, developing critical skills in time management, nutrition, and teamwork—all within a supportive and structured framework. Life at FCC isn’t just about learning to live independently—it’s about immersing in the
community. As a post-graduate (PG) student, you still get to participate in all the best parts of student life including, playing on our varsity sports teams, acting in our fall play or spring musical, taking on leadership roles and mentor younger students, and engage in exclusive social
outings and weekend activities.
And because we believe in real-world independence, FCC students enjoy added college-style freedoms, including permission to have cars on campus and access to curated evening and weekend programming designed to balance structure with personal choice. At FCC, we understand that every student’s journey is different. That’s why each student’s experience is personalized—designed collaboratively with their advisor and family to ensure the right balance of freedom, support, and structure. This approach ensures students can adapt to new environments, build social connections, and practice self-care—all while enjoying the exciting freedoms of young adulthood. FCC isn’t just preparing students for college or the workforce—we’re preparing them for life.
Meet the Team
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Program
Q: What is Franklin College Connections?
A: Franklin College Connections — or Franklin College Connections — is Franklin Academy’s post-graduate (PG) program that helps students move from high school into the next stage of their lives. It’s a year for growth, confidence-building, and real preparation for college or independent living. Students experience the freedom of a college-like environment while still having the structure and support that helps them succeed.
Q: Who is a good fit for the Franklin College Connections program?
A: Franklin College Connections is a great option for students who are bright, capable, and ready to move forward, but who might need a little more time or support before taking on college or a full-time job. Many of our students have learning differences like ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or executive function challenges. Others are simply looking for a chance to strengthen their independence, refine study habits, and figure out what comes next.
Q: How is Franklin College Connections different from a typical post-graduate or gap year program?
A: Franklin College Connections is more than a “fifth year” of high school — and it’s not just a gap year. It’s a bridge between high school and college that focuses on personal growth and self-reliance. Students take real college courses, learn how to manage their time, and start building adult routines, but they still have access to Franklin’s safety net of guidance, coaching, and community.
Academics and Learning
Q: What kinds of classes and learning experiences does Franklin College Connections offer?
A: Each student’s academic plan is personalized. Some take college-level classes through partnerships with local colleges, earning credits they can transfer later. Others focus on strengthening their academic foundations or exploring new subjects. Workshops and skill-building sessions are built in to help students manage their workload, stay organized, and advocate for themselves.
Q: Do students get academic coaching or advising?
A: Yes, every student has a personal advisor who helps them stay on track and find balance. Students meet regularly with academic coaches to set goals, organize schedules, and tackle challenges together. The focus is on learning how to plan ahead — not just finish assignments.
Q: How does Franklin College Connections help students build executive function and self-advocacy skills?
A: Executive function skills are woven into everything we do. Students learn how to manage time, use planners effectively, break tasks into steps, and communicate clearly with professors or peers. Self-advocacy is another big focus — students practice asking for what they need and speaking up with confidence.
Residential Life and Independence
Q: What is residential life like for Franklin College Connections students?
A: Franklin College Connections students live in small, apartment-style houses that mirror the college experience. They shop for groceries, plan meals, manage budgets, and share responsibilities with housemates. It’s independence, but with the right amount of guidance. Staff live nearby and are available when students need advice or support — but the goal is for students to take ownership of their daily lives.
Q: Can students commute instead of living on campus?
A: While the program is designed as a residential experience, local students may be able to commute in certain cases. However, living on campus tends to offer the full experience — socially, emotionally, and practically. It’s often where students make the most growth.
Q: What’s social life like at Franklin College Connections?
A: Community is a huge part of the program. Students participate in social events, weekend outings, and group activities that help them build friendships and practice real-world social skills. There’s plenty of fun, too — game nights, trips, movie evenings, and shared meals all help create that sense of connection and belonging.
Support and Transition Services
Q: What kind of support do students receive?
A: Every student at Franklin College Connections has a built-in support system. Advisors, academic coaches, and counselors work as a team to make sure each student has what they need to grow. There’s academic help, emotional support, and transition planning that focuses on each student’s goals.
Q: How does Franklin College Connections prepare students for college or work?
A: Students learn to take charge of their lives. They practice balancing responsibilities, managing deadlines, and navigating college-level expectations — all in a low-pressure, supportive environment. Many also explore internships, part-time classes, or volunteer work to help them test their strengths and interests.
Q: Is there wellness or mental health support?
A: Yes. Wellness is part of daily life here. Students have access to counseling, mindfulness activities, and programs focused on building healthy routines and resilience. Our goal is to help each student learn what balance looks like for them.
Admissions and Enrollment
Q: Who can apply to Franklin College Connections?
A: Franklin College Connections is open to both Franklin Academy graduates and students from other high schools who are looking for a bridge between high school and college. Applicants should be eager to grow, willing to take on new challenges, and ready to engage in a supportive, semi-independent setting.
Q: What’s the application process like?
A: Families can start by submitting an inquiry on our website at fa-ct.org. After that, our Admissions team will reach out to learn more about your student and schedule a tour or virtual conversation. From there, we’ll guide you step by step through the application and enrollment process.
Q: Does Franklin College Connections offer financial aid?
A: Yes. Franklin Academy offers need-based financial aid for qualifying families. We understand this is an important investment, and we’re committed to helping families make it possible.
Q: How long does the program last?
A: The Franklin College Connections program runs for one academic year — a fall and spring semester — much like a college calendar. Some students choose to extend their time if they want additional support or development before transitioning to college or work.
Outcomes and Next Steps
Q: What do students do after completing Franklin College Connections?
A: Graduates of Franklin College Connections go on to a wide range of paths — four-year colleges, community colleges, certificate programs, internships, or employment. The most common theme? They leave ready. They’ve gained the confidence, independence, and direction they need to take their next steps successfully.
Q: How does Franklin College Connections define success?
A: Success looks different for every student. For some, it’s being able to manage a full course load at college. For others, it’s mastering self-care, improving social confidence, or learning to navigate life’s daily responsibilities. We celebrate growth — not perfection.
General Information
Q: Where is the program located?
A: Franklin College Connections is located on the Franklin Academy campus in East Haddam, Connecticut. It’s a peaceful, scenic place surrounded by nature — the perfect setting for reflection, focus, and growth.
Q: How can families learn more?
A: To learn more, visit fa-ct.org/franklin-college-connections or contact our Admissions Office. We’d love to talk with you, answer your questions, and help you find out if Franklin College Connections is the right next step for your student.
