Students with Disabilities

Welcome

We are delighted to welcome all students who identify as neurodivergent or as having a disability to the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. At the Career Center, we recognize that your unique perspectives and strengths are invaluable to our community. We are committed to supporting you through your academic and professional journey, providing you with the tools and resources you need to succeed.

Our mission: championing inclusive success

Our mission is to champion your career success by embracing inclusivity and providing tailored support. Whether you aim to kickstart your career locally, nationally, or on a global scale, we are here to offer the personalized guidance and resources necessary for you to thrive in your chosen field. Our team is also devoted to empowering you to advocate for yourself and your needs as you pursue various opportunities and achieve your career aspirations. Explore all our resources linked below for further support!

How we can help you

Career counseling

Our dedicated career advisors offer individualized counseling that takes into account your unique experiences and ambitions. From resume development to interview practice, and identifying suitable career paths, we are here to assist you at every stage. Schedule an appointment with us on Handshake.

Job and internship search

Access our comprehensive database of job and internship openings that cater to the skills and experiences of neurodivergent students and those with disabilities. Our team is ready to guide you through the job market and help you find employers who appreciate and seek the diverse abilities you offer. Connect with potential employers via our online platform, Handshake. Be sure to check out the job and internship resources under Employment and Career Resources!

Workshops and events

Participate in career workshops, seminars, and networking events that are designed with your needs in mind. These events provide great opportunities to build professional skills, grow your network, and learn about various industries. View our events.

Job search advice

Self-understanding: Know your strengths, the kind of environments you thrive in, and the accommodations you might need. This self-awareness will be crucial when looking for jobs and discussing your fit with potential employers. Check out the university’s TypeFocus assessment to approach your educational and career journey with a strengths based approach! (Instructions for first time TypeFocus users should visit: Career Center - Career Center - myUMassD
Career counseling: Utilize your school's career services, which often have resources for students with disabilities, including specialized career counseling.
Job search platforms: Look for job search platforms and employment services that focus on candidates with disabilities. Some organizations specifically aim to connect neurodiverse job seekers with disability-friendly employers. (See our many employment and career resources below)
Network: Connect with professionals and organizations in your desired field. LinkedIn and other professional networks have groups dedicated to neurodiversity and disability inclusion.
Disclosure: Decide in advance how, when, or if you wish to disclose your disability. You are not required to disclose your disability unless you require accommodations. If you do, know your rights under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Prepare for interviews: Practice common interview questions and scenarios. If interviews are a challenge, inform your potential employer in advance if you need accommodations, like an interview format that suits you better. Check out the University’s platform Big Interview and Corsair Career Spots to prepare for interview sand build confidence!
Workplace accommodations: Research and be ready to discuss potential accommodations that could help you perform at your best. Employers in many countries are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations.
Skills development: Continue to build your skill set through internships, volunteering, or online courses, which can also help you build a professional network. Visit our Career tools and platforms or schedule an appointment with us on Handshake!
Mentorship: Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, whether through formal programs or informal relationships. Join the Corsair Network to identify an alumni interested in serving as a mentor!
Professional resources: Join professional associations, many of which offer resources, networking, and job listings for members with disabilities.
Supportive environment: Aim to work for organizations that value diversity and inclusion, as indicated by their policies, culture, and employee experiences.
Patience and perseverance: Job searches can be challenging and time-consuming. Be patient with yourself and persistent in your efforts.

Employment and career resources

Abilityjobs.com: Largest Job Site for individuals who identify as neurodivergent or as having a disABILITY.
American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD): Prime resource for individuals with disabilities to explore and secure professional job opportunities with top-tier companies.
DREAM (Disability Rights, Education, Activism, & Mentoring Group for College Students with Disabilities): DREAM was designed to serve as an online virtual disability cultural center for students who want to connect with other students, with NCCSD staff as advisors. DREAM is for higher education students of all types, of all ages, with any kind of disability, including culturally Deaf students and nondisabled students who are our allies and peers.
Guide for People with DisABILITIES Seeking Employment
Job Accommodation Network (JAN): Provides guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues.
Lime Connect: A global network that connects high potential university students and professionals – including veterans – who happen to have disabilities with corporations.
National Organization on Disability: The National Organization on Disability (NOD) enhances job prospects for American individuals with disabilities. Its offerings assist businesses in recognizing the strategic benefits of employing individuals with disabilities.
Neurodiversity Hiring Initiatives & Partnerships: Examples of organizations that hire diverse neurodivergent workers.
Neurodiversity in the Workplace: Bridges the gap for autistic and neurodiverse individuals aspiring to high-level professional careers.
Work Without Limits - A network that connects job seekers with disabilities to inclusive employers.
Workforce Recruitment Program: A job placement and networking service that pairs eager college students and fresh graduates with disabilities with expansive federal and private-sector job opportunities throughout the nation.

Campus resources

Office of Student Accessibility Services

The Office of Student Accessibility Services works with faculty, staff, and students to ensure that appropriate academic adjustments are made that allow all students equity inside the classroom. Students who have documented disabilities on our campus are afforded a variety of services to accommodate their individual needs.