• List your skills, unique strengths, and preferred work styles
• Consider environments that match your needs (e.g., quiet, structured, flexible)

• Meet with a career coach or the access services office to discuss accommodations
• Explore inclusive employers (e.g., companies with neurodiversity hiring initiatives)
• Use job boards that highlight inclusive employers (e.g., Neurodiversity in the Workplace, AbilityJobs)
• Create online profile on Handshake. Be sure to include a professional headshot of you smiling. The Center for Career Design offers a free headshot photo booth.

• Get involved with student organizations, volunteering, or class projects
• Consider part-time roles, internships, or micro-internships to develop skills

• Customize your resume and cover letter to match the job description. The Center for Career Design offers JobScan which will help you do just that.
• Use clear, direct language to highlight achievements
• Consider asking a mentor or career coach to review your materials

• Prepare answers to typical interview questions (e.g., “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your strengths?”)
• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to organize your examples

• Request Accommodations if Needed
• Examples: extra time for interviews, written questions in advance, breaks
• You can discuss this with HR before the interview

• Practice with a friend, family member, or career coach
• Write down key points you want to remember
• Schedule interviews for a time of day when you feel best

• Research the company and role
• Pick out what you’ll wear and make sure it feels comfortable
• Practice making eye contact if that feels challenging; you can also look at a spot near their eyes

• Research attending employers and choose a shortlist
• Prepare a simple 30-second introduction (see below)
• Bring several copies of your resume

• Use a notepad to write down names and roles you speak to
• Take breaks if you get overwhelmed
• Use noise-cancelling headphones between visits if that helps regulate sensory input

• Follow up with a thank-you email
• Connect on LinkedIn with contacts you met

Here’s a simple formula:

1️. Name 2️. Degree/program 3️. Strengths/interests 4️. Why you’re excited about the opportunity

Example: “Hi, my name is Jordan Lee. I’m studying Computer Science at Columbus State University. I really enjoy problem-solving and have strong skills in Python and data analysis. I’m looking for an internship where I can apply these skills to help develop innovative products.”

If small talk feels stressful, you can script it ahead of time or practice with a friend.