Claiming Space: Navigating the Job Search One Wheel at A Time

The last semester of grad school was a mix of excitement, anticipation, and, honestly, stress. Between racing to finish assignments, picking out my regalia, sending invitations, touching up my resume, and studying for the social work licensing exam, it sometimes felt like I barely had time to breathe. But what weighed on me most was the job search. For disabled people, this can bring its own set of challenges and headaches.

I began my job hunt about two months before crossing the Howard University graduation stage because I knew I was going to be ready to work right away. I couldn’t help but worry about the barriers I might face as a wheelchair user, from physical access (like desks tall enough for a wheelchair or accessible doors), to digital accommodations I need for my hands, and having a job that will allow me to work remote on days I may not have the strength to go into the office. These requests aren’t outrageous, but not every employer is prepared to meet them. While there are many reasons why that is, one of those reasons is because some people still believe disabled folks are "too sick to work" or can’t contribute. That’s just not the reality for all of us because many disabled people want to work and are able to contribute a lot! Our disabilities don’t define our capacity, though outdated attitudes often get in the way.

I refused to let those obstacles block my path or dull my belief that I could find a job that truly fits. Social work has taught me how to advocate, not just for others but for myself. I leaned into my network, reaching out to organizations I’d interned with, professors with connections, and mentors who understood the realities of employment with a disability. Those conversations helped me see possibilities and practical opportunities I might’ve missed alone.

Resume building became another form of advocacy. I asked a friend with resume-writing experience to take a look, and she provided me feedback to help make my skills stand out more clearly. I will say connecting with the university career center for resume advice is also something I’d recommend because it is a helpful way to improve your resume when it comes time to apply for jobs.

When interview season came, I made the choice to be upfront about my disability and the fact that I am a wheelchair user. It was nerve-wracking, but it felt important. Being transparent meant I could explain exactly what accommodations I needed and see which employers were ready to adapt. It also gave me control over my own narrative, letting me decide if an opportunity was really the right fit for me. There were a couple of rejections, which were disheartening, but I knew every "no" was getting me closer to my “yes”. I was right because the moment after I crossed the stage, I received an offer letter from an organization that not only aligned with my career path, but was willing to accommodate me so I could be the best employee and advocate.

Navigating job searching and interviews can be nerve-wracking as a person living with a disability because, as I mentioned, there are many obstacles that disabled people tend to face when it comes to finding employment. But leaning on your support system, advocating for your needs, and focusing on your strengths will lead you towards the right job opportunity. Please don’t be afraid to ask for help, making space for your voice to be heard and your value to be shown.

For more employment resources, check out our Employment for People with Disabilities booklet.