Careers

There is a myth that if you have a college degree, you have a job. The fact is that approximately 53% of college graduates are unemployed or working in a job that doesn't require a bachelor's degree. It takes the average college graduate three to six months to secure employment after graduation. A student benefits from having a career-seeking strategy and previous work experiences. Otherwise, her resume might be lost in a stack of hundreds for a specific job.

The Internet hosts a large quantity of websites that deal with the legal and social issues related to people with disabilities and employment. Many resources offer assistance in understanding employment-related legislation, helping students with disabilities prepare for careers, developing workplace accommodations, and applying universal design principles in the work environment.

Through the interaction of study and work experience, students can enhance their academic knowledge, personal development, and professional preparation. Specifically, work-based learning opportunities can help a student

The employee or intern is responsible for providing personal accommodations, such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, and personal attendants. In most cases, it is the employer's responsibility to provide on-site job accommodations for an employee who has a disability. It is sometimes possible for the employer to receive tax credits and incentives for doing so. The state division of vocational rehabilitation can provide information about these programs.

The first step in attracting applicants with disabilities is as simple as adding a statement outlining your interest in receiving applications from a diverse group of people, including those with disabilities, to your company's existing recruitment materials. Next, disseminate announcements in settings where people with disabilities might be reached.

Providing support for students with disabilities can empower them and reinforce their plans for success. Here are some ways to help:

The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) compliments the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by assuring that people with disabilities are served alongside other job-seekers at Career One-Stop Centers. One-Stops are designed to provide effective, core and intensive training and services to individuals who need assistance finding employment.

Students with disabilities have a wide variety of places to look for work experiences. They can access services available to all students, such as their schools' career services and cooperative education offices. Postsecondary students can utilize work-study opportunities, contact faculty for suggestions, and ask about opportunities at their human resources offices.