In a collaborative effort between Career Exploration & Education and Accessibility Services, the impactful Ready to Work program was expanded this year. This month-long initiative was carefully designed to support students and recent alumni in their journey of navigating disability and the workplace.
A diverse range of events was thoughtfully curated, including online panels, interactive Q&A sessions, and enlightening keynote presentations. Each event was tailored to provide students with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for a successful transition from the academic sphere into the world of work.
While each event had unique learning outcomes, students participating in the Ready to Work program could expect to:
- Gain a clear understanding of their next action as they prepare to transition from the academic environment to the workforce or further education.
- Acquire in-depth knowledge regarding their rights, responsibilities, disclosure and accommodations in the workplace, ensuring they enter their professional lives with confidence.
- Have opportunities to build strong professional networks, along with practical strategies for networking and engagement with alumni, employers, faculty and staff in an inclusive and supportive atmosphere.
While Ready to Work underscored the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in the workforce, it also addressed the challenges and opportunities faced by young individuals experiencing disability related barriers in the ever-evolving world of work. This program gave students the knowledge, skills and confidence they needed to excel in the world of work.