The National
Spinal Cord
Injury Association

Disability in the News Archive

Employing Interns with Disabilities

"The American Council on Education reported in its 1995 Enrollment Survey that about 9 percent of all college freshmen identified themselves as having a disability.
When these students start their internships, there are certain points to consider to make this a positive experience for both intern and employer.
Kansas City Business Journal identifies the following steps:
"Create a thorough job description outlining the essential functions of that job" so that potential interns know if they could fulfill all necessary tasks and responsibilities.
"Know that it is the prospective intern's responsibility to disclose a disability and request an accommodation."
"Request appropriate documentation before providing an accommodation to the inter."
"Do not over-complicate a request for accommodation."
And finally, "be honest with interns with disabilities about their performance and progress."
Read full article in Kansas City Business Journal, October 13, 1997.

Back to the Disabiliy in the News Archive