Job Hunting with a Disability

Searching for a job is challenging for everyone, but as someone with cerebral palsy, I’ve faced unique obstacles along the way. From accessibility barriers to employer biases, the journey hasn’t been easy. However, through persistence, self-advocacy, and learning how to market my skills, I’ve made progress—and I want to share my experience to help others in similar situations.

Overcoming a Lack of Experience

When I first started job hunting, my biggest hurdle was my resume. I didn’t have much traditional work experience, and that made me doubt myself. But instead of focusing on what I lacked, I highlighted what I did have:

Leadership Roles – As a member of Abilities at Wright State University, I developed communication and teamwork skills that employers value.
Transferable Skills – Through school projects and volunteer work, I gained experience in marketing, advertising, and customer service.
Technical Proficiency – My skills in Microsoft Office, Canva, and Google Ads became strong selling points.

By reworking my resume to showcase my strengths, I started getting more responses from employers.

The Challenge of Finding Inclusive Employers

I knew that not all workplaces would be accessible or welcoming, so I tried to focus my search on companies with strong diversity and inclusion policies. However, despite my efforts, I struggled to find truly inclusive employers. Many companies talk about diversity, but when it comes to hiring and providing accommodations, their actions don’t always match their words.

I applied to numerous positions, but often felt overlooked. It was discouraging, but I reminded myself that this wasn’t a reflection of my worth or abilities. Instead, it highlighted the work that still needs to be done in creating more inclusive workplaces.

Job Fairs: A Frustrating Experience

During college, I attended many job fairs hoping to connect with employers and secure opportunities. Unfortunately, they weren’t as helpful as I had hoped. Many companies seemed uninterested in hiring someone with my background, and few were willing to have meaningful conversations about accessibility or accommodations. It often felt like I was just another name in a stack of resumes, rather than a serious candidate.

Despite the disappointment, I still gained valuable experience from attending these events. I improved my networking skills, refined my pitch, and learned how to present myself professionally. Even though job fairs didn’t directly lead to opportunities, they helped me grow in confidence and better understand the hiring process.

Navigating the Application Process

Since I haven’t yet attended any interviews, I’m still preparing for what’s to come. One of the hardest decisions I anticipate facing is whether to disclose my disability. I’ve learned that disclosure is a personal choice—it depends on the job, the company, and what accommodations I might need. When the time comes, I plan to focus on my qualifications first and bring up my disability only if necessary.

Requesting accommodations is another challenge I expect to navigate. At first, I was hesitant about how employers might react, but I’ve come to realize that asking for support isn’t a burden—it’s my right. Whether it’s requesting an accessible interview space or discussing remote work options, I’m prepared to advocate for myself.

Still Searching, Still Hopeful

As of now, I’m still looking for the right job opportunity. I’m passionate about marketing and content creation, and I’m eager to find a role where I can use my skills to make an impact. The job search can be frustrating, especially when it feels like inclusivity is just a buzzword for some employers. But I know that the right position is out there.

In the meantime, I’m continuing to build my skills, connect with professionals in my field, and apply to roles that align with my strengths. If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this process, it’s that persistence pays off.

Final Thoughts

Job hunting with a disability isn’t easy, but it’s possible. If you’re in the same position, remember: you have valuable skills to offer, and the right employer will see that. Keep pushing forward, advocate for yourself, and don’t settle for anything less than a workplace that values your abilities.