Need Career Support?
This page provides practical tools, legal basics, social navigation guidance, and trusted resources to help you prepare for work, request accommodations, and evaluate position fit.
Access & Disability Resources (ADR) and Employer Engagement and Career Services (EECS) each provide distinct support in this process.
Disability is a natural part of human diversity and part of workforce diversity. Many organizations actively seek diverse perspectives and problem-solving approaches. Understanding your strengths and access needs allows you to contribute fully and sustainably.
Students with disabilities often build valuable workplace skills such as adaptability, persistence, and problem-solving. Identifying your strengths and learning to talk about them with confidence will help you on your career journey. This page will help you do that. ADR (Access & Disability Resources) and EECS (Employer Engagement and Career Services) is here to support you as well!
Access & Disability Resources (ADR): Get support in understanding accommodations and documentation.
Career Services: Get help with resumes, interviews, and translating strengths into employer language.
Ensure you have a strong resume
Get interview guidance and support
Know your rights and responsibilities in the workplace
EECS On Campus: a recurring, drop-in career support event held at PCC campuses throughout the semester.
Create and use a LinkedIn profile to connect with classmates, instructors, alumni, and professionals in your field. Follow companies and join industry groups.
Attend career events and hiring fairs to meet employers and learn about internships, apprenticeships, and job opportunities.
Participate in student clubs or professional associations related to your program of study.
Volunteer or work on campus to build experience and form relationships with supervisors and colleagues.
Join community or industry events such as meetups, conferences, or workshops to meet professionals outside the classroom.
Use professional platforms and forums related to your field to learn from others and participate in discussions.
Getting ready for the workplace means developing the skills, habits, and confidence needed to succeed on the job. Taking time to prepare helps you make a strong impression on employers and transition more smoothly from school to career.
Many students with disabilities spend years adapting, problem-solving, and navigating systems. Those experiences build workplace-relevant skills.
You may already have strengths in:
Self-advocacy
Structured planning systems
Adaptive problem-solving
Assistive technology
Managing competing demands
Boundary setting
Persistence under pressure
If you have taken a lighter course load or paused employment to manage health, that reflects prioritization and self-management — not lack of ambition.
Employers hire for reliability, communication, problem-solving, and performance. The systems you use to succeed are professional assets.
What systems help you succeed in school that could translate to work?
Workplaces operate differently from classrooms.
Common expectations include:
Arriving on time and clocking in accurately
Completing essential job functions independently
Communicating clearly with supervisors
Understanding the perspectives of others
Receiving feedback and adjusting performance
Following policies and procedures
Workplaces also have informal norms:
Responding to emails professionally
Managing tone and clarity
Understanding hierarchy
Asking questions when unsure
Taking responsibility for mistakes
Learning these expectations takes time. No one is expected to know everything immediately.
Workplace norms are shaped by culture and tradition and may not reflect every communication style. Understanding them allows you to navigate professional environments strategically without changing your identity.
Employers may interpret behaviors based on workplace norms.
Examples:
Limited eye contact may be interpreted as disengagement.
Very brief answers may be interpreted as a lack of preparation.
Delayed responses may be interpreted as uncertainty.
This does not mean you must change who you are. It means understanding how behavior may be perceived.
Strategies:
If eye contact is uncomfortable, look at the interviewer’s forehead or between their eyebrows.
It is acceptable to pause before answering: “That’s a good question. Let me think for a moment.”
If you process verbally, ask for clarification: “Could you repeat that?” or “Can you rephrase the question?”
Professional communication is a skill that can be learned and practiced.
College accommodations do not automatically transfer to employment.
In the workplace:
You must understand the barriers your disability presents and request accommodations.
Employers must engage in a good-faith discussion about reasonable options.
Accommodations cannot remove essential job functions.
Workplace accommodations may look different than accommodations in K-12 and/or College settings.
This discussion is called the interactive process under the ADA.
Authoritative resources:
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): https://www.eeoc.gov/disability-discrimination
Job Accommodation Network (JAN): https://askjan.org
Your Rights
Protection from disability discrimination
Confidential handling of disability-related information
Access to reasonable accommodations
Protection from retaliation
Your Responsibilities And Processes
Performing essential job duties
Following workplace policies
Communicating accommodation needs
Participating in the accommodation discussion
Maintaining professional conduct
Responsibilities reflect standard professional expectations for all employees and are not a condition for receiving accommodations.
Understanding both sides builds confidence and credibility.
Additional Resources
Disability Rights AZ - https://disabilityrightsaz.org/
Disclosure is personal and strategic. You are not required to disclose a disability unless you are requesting an accommodation.
Disclosure before an interview is rare unless you need an accommodation for the interview itself.
Common points when employees choose to disclose:
After receiving a job offer
When requesting an accommodation to address a workplace barrier
After starting a job, if a need arises
During the interview, only if an accommodation is needed for the interview process
Before deciding, consider:
Do I need an accommodation immediately to perform the job?
Is my disability visible?
Will disclosure improve clarity, safety, or performance?
Does this employer demonstrate inclusion?
If you are requesting an interview accommodation, you may say:
“I am requesting a reasonable accommodation for the interview process. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss options.”
ADR can help you understand documentation requirements and prepare for accommodation requests.
ADA overview: https://www.ada.gov
Students with disabilities may have:
Lighter work history
Pauses due to health
Reduced course loads
That does not reduce your value.
Highlighting Nontraditional & Transferable Skills
You can highlight:
Coursework and applied projects
Research
Volunteer roles
Technical certifications
Campus leadership
Independent learning
If asked about a gap:
Example response: “I took time to address a health matter. During that period, I strengthened my organizational systems and completed coursework that prepared me for this role.”
Keep it brief and forward-focused.
Instead of describing difficulty, describe strategy and outcome.
Example:
“I use structured task management tools to prioritize deadlines, track deliverables, and ensure consistent follow-through.”
Additional examples:
“I rely on written checklists and step-by-step documentation to maintain accuracy and reduce errors.”
“I use calendar blocking and digital reminders to manage multiple deadlines effectively.”
“I request clarification early in projects to prevent miscommunication and ensure alignment.”
“I build buffer time into assignments to account for unexpected changes and maintain reliability.”
“I use assistive technology to streamline workflow and increase efficiency.”
This demonstrates accountability, self-awareness, and problem-solving.
What should I wear if I have sensory challenges?
Choose professional clothing that aligns with workplace standards while remaining comfortable enough for you to focus.
Can I bring a discreet fidget or assistive tool?
Discreet fidgets can help with focus and are generally appropriate, provided they are not disruptive. Assistive devices related to your disability do not need to be discreet and should not be hidden. If you need a specific accommodation, request it in advance.
Can I bring a support person?
If needed as an accommodation, coordinate with the prospective employer in advance to plan appropriately.
What if I process information more slowly?
Pause. Ask for repetition. Clarify the question. That is professional.
Interview Tips from the U.S. Department of Labor - https://www.dol.gov/general/jobs/interview-tips
Different environments work better for different people.
Consider:
Noise level
Lighting
Pace of work
Supervisory style
Level of structure
Team size
Inclusive employers often demonstrate:
Clear accommodation policies
Disability-inclusive diversity statements
Structured onboarding
Transparent communication expectations
Research employers before applying.
Signs adjustment may be needed:
Ongoing or overwhelming sensory barriers
Communication breakdown
Accommodations not implemented
Health consistently impacted
Before deciding:
Clarify the issue.
Request adjustments when appropriate.
Consult ADR if accommodations are involved.
If you believe your rights have been violated, consult Human Resources for guidance.
If you decide to transition:
Resign professionally.
Maintain documentation of accomplishments.
Reflect on what environment works better.
A job that isn't a good fit doesn't reflect your value as a person. Workplace alignment depends on culture, management style, structure, and pace. Learning what does not fit strengthens your ability to choose environments where you can perform at your best.
Building connections increases opportunity because many roles are filled through referrals, internal recommendations, and professional networks.
Networking helps you:
Learn about roles before applying
Identify inclusive employers
Gain advocates who can recommend you
Understand workplace expectations
Start with:
Structured career events
Informational interviews
Faculty referrals
LinkedIn outreach
Volunteer & Experience Pathways
If paid experience feels overwhelming, consider:
Volunteer roles aligned with your major
Campus employment
Short-term project work
Structured internships
Volunteer work builds skills, references, and confidence.
You do not have to navigate this alone.
Consider:
Disabled-student organizations
Peer mentoring
Alumni networks
Community-based disability advocacy groups
Peer insight provides a practical, lived-experience perspective.
If you receive SSI or SSDI, employment may affect benefits.
This page does not provide individualized benefits advice.
For accurate guidance:
Ticket to Work: https://choosework.ssa.gov
Arizona Vocational Rehabilitation: https://des.az.gov/services/employment/rehabilitation-services
Job Accommodation Network: https://askjan.org
Disability Benefits 101 (DB101): https://az.db101.org/
Access and Accommodations
Determining eligibility for academic and non-academic accommodations within the college setting
Coordinating reasonable adjustments for coursework, testing, and campus activities
Providing documentation to support accommodation requests in employment settings
Disability and Accessibility Support
Disability verification and individualized accommodation planning
Assistive technology recommendations
Alternative format materials
Referral to community agencies and vocational rehabilitation services
Transition Planning
Guidance on how college accommodations differ from workplace accommodations
Assistance with preparing documentation or letters that explain functional impact and accommodation histories
Strategies for effective communication about access needs
Self-Advocacy Coaching
Conversations about disclosure decisions
Support preparing accommodation request language
Practice articulating strengths and access needs
For complete ADR information, visit: Access and Disability Resources
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Resume development
Interview preparation
Job search strategy
Networking preparation
Translating strengths into employer language
MyCareerLink (Pima’s job and internship platform): mycareerlink.pima.edu
Through MyCareerLink, you can:
Search for part-time, full-time, and internship opportunities
Register for hiring events
Connect with employers
Upload and manage your resume
View upcoming career events and workshops: https://careerservices.pima.edu/events-sessions
Events include:
Hiring events
Workforce Wednesdays
Industry showcases
Resume and interview workshops
And more!
Phone: 520-206-4820
Email: careerservices@pima.edu
Website: https://careerservices.pima.edu
Access & Disability Resources (ADR)
Provides accommodations, assistive technology, and support services to ensure equal access for students with disabilities.
Pima SOAR (Student Outreach, Access, and Resources)
Offers advising, mentoring, and academic support for students with disabilities and other eligible populations.
Dream Job Fair
A national virtual job fair connecting individuals with disabilities to inclusive employers.
Beacon Group
Provides job training, employment placement, and support services for individuals with disabilities.
SAAVI Services for the Blind
Offers vocational training, independent living skills, and employment support for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
United Cerebral Palsy of Southern Arizona / Workability
Provides employment services, job coaching, and community-based support for individuals with disabilities.
Goodwill of Southern Arizona
Offers career training, job placement, and employment support for individuals facing barriers, including disabilities.
Arizona Rehabilitation Services (Vocational Rehabilitation)
Provides individualized employment support, training, and job placement services for individuals with disabilities.
TCH – The Centers for Habilitation
Offers day programs, employment services, and residential support to help individuals build independence and job skills.
Direct Center for Independence
A peer-led organization providing independent living services, advocacy, and employment readiness support.
Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
Provides long-term services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities, including employment and daily living assistance.
Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES)
State agency offering employment services, financial assistance, and disability-related support programs.
ARIZONA@WORK (Pima County One-Stop)
Offers job search assistance, training programs, and career services, including support for individuals with disabilities.
Pima County Job Assistance
Connects residents to employment resources, workforce programs, and training opportunities.
Pima County Public Library
Provides accessible technology, assistive tools, and inclusive community programming.
Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)
Federal agency supporting vocational rehabilitation and employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities.