Palma Gutierrez, Ana B.2022-05-092022-05-092022http://hdl.handle.net/1773/48590This study addresses the barriers students with disabilities face when transitioning from K-12 to higher education in Washington State. Students receiving accommodations from the three campuses at the University of Washington were recruited to participate in this research study. However, only students from the Seattle and Bothell campuses participated in the research. Further, students were asked to share their experiences in getting accommodations in higher education and provide their recommendations on the transition process. Lastly, a total of seven staff members at Disability Resources for Students (DRS) office were interviewed for this capstone, all holding unique roles and coming from the three campuses at the University of Washington. Staff members were asked to share their observations working with students and to identify the main barriers students face when leaving K-12 and starting college. The main themes found in the study were: 1) Students referred to the transition process from K-12 to higher education as “Terrible Transition”, 2) Students and DRS staff found it important to create spaces where students can connect with each other and support each other, and 3) Students and staff found it important to implement mentorship programs for students to make the transition process smoother. After conducting this research, it is recommended that future research be done to learn more about the transition Running Start students have in comparison to students leaving K-12 who did not participate in this program. Additional research is also encouraged to compare the transition from undergraduate school to graduate school and post-college work. Lastly, states across the country should consider establishing associations like Washington’s Council of Presidents so that communication between colleges and universities is prioritized at the national level, and students with disabilities can be better represented in the leadership and decision-making process of higher education’s monetary and policy making processes.en