Want a Job After Graduation? Get Some Experience Now!

Julie Smallman, DO-IT CAREERS coordinator

Internships and other work-based learning experiences can help you choose careers, network with potential employers, select courses of study, develop job skills, and help pay for your education. In addition, they can give you valuable opportunities to practice disclosing your disability and requesting worksite accommodations.

Many high schools and colleges offer programs that help students gain work experience before graduation. Offerings vary from campus to campus. Do some research to find programs best suited to your needs. In addition, you can find opportunities and information on the Internet. To get started, visit the CAREERS section of the DO-IT Web site at www.washington.edu/doit/programs/accesscollege/employment-office/overview.

College students with disabilities pursuing technical careers should check out the ENTRY POINT! internship program coordinated through the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). This program provides opportunities for paid internships for undergraduate and graduate students with disabilities who are pursuing technical careers. 1999 summer internships typically run from May through August and are available throughout the country at NASA centers and in private industry. To be eligible for this program you must be a full-time college student; currently attend an accredited college or university with a major in computer science, engineering, mathematics, physical science, or life science; have a minimum B average; and have proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

If you are interested in applying, submit the following:

letter of introduction including: 1) the type of assignment that best uses or builds upon your skills and work experience, 2) geographic restrictions (if any), and 3) a statement regarding citizenship
resume
description of any required work accommodation or assistive technology
two letters of recommendation (one from faculty)
copy of official transcript
statement of U.S. citizenship

For more information on this exciting program, contact:

Laureen Summers
AAAS-Education and Human Resources
1200 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20005-3920
202-371-9849 (FAX)
202-326-6649 (voice/TTY)
lsummers@aaas.org
ehrweb.aaas.org/ehr

For assistance with developing a marketable resume and completing your application materials, please contact me, Julie Smallman, DO-IT CAREERS coordinator, at smallman@u.washington.edu.