Dal is making a significant move toward greater inclusivity with the launch of Able After Dal, a new program designed to support students and alumni with disabilities as they transition from university life into the workforce.
Able After Dal provides personalized career services and resources to help students navigate the job search process and prepare for various types of employment, from internships to post-graduation career opportunities.
Closing the gap
Dal has long supported students with disabilities through academic accommodations, but as Rebecca Koeller, a student access advisor with the Student Accessibility Center (SAC), notes, there was a need for more targeted career transition support.
Able After Dal fills this gap by offering personalized resources, including the Able After Dal guide, 1:1 advising, workshops, and employer events.
These services are available at any stage of the job search, whether students are researching, applying, preparing for interviews or starting a new job.
"The program ensures students have career support at every step of their path to employment," explains Kaitlin Burek, a career services advisor with the Bissett Student Success Centre.
Dalhousie Accessibility Week was created to help build knowledge and momentum around accessibility planning at the university.
Supporting career transitions
One of the key components of Able After Dal is its focus on work-integrated learning, such as co-op positions, internships, and clinical placements.
"Work-integrated learning and other experiential learning opportunities are critical components to the student learning experience," says Burek. "Able After Dal aims to ensure students are aware that Dal's Student Accommodation Policy applies to all aspects of their degree programs, including in the workplace."
Able After Dal helps students navigate the accommodation process during placements, ensuring they have the necessary support for academic and professional success. The program also hosts events like Accessibility & Employment: A Panel Discussion with Employers & Students, which provides a platform for students to engage with inclusive employers.
Connecting students with inclusive employers who value accessibility and diversity is a key aspect of the program. "The program helps students assess employers' accessibility and inclusivity before applying," says Koeller. The Able After Dal Guide offers practical advice on understanding workplace rights, deciding when to disclose a disability, and requesting accommodations.
Events like Accessibility Week sessions also support students in navigating employer inclusivity. Upcoming sessions include "Able After Dal 101: Job & Career Supports for Students with Disabilities" and "Able After Dal: Job Opportunities and Accessibility with the Government of Canada.
Expanding and evolving
Able After Dal is not a one-size-fits-all program but an array of services that students and alumni can access as needed. Looking ahead, Dal is committed to expanding the program's offerings. Upcoming plans include introducing more employer events, mentorship opportunities, and advisor training programs.
"We strive to continuously expand and iterate our offerings to better serve students and alumni with disabilities," says Koeller. The program's vision includes increasing university-wide awareness about disability and career development and enhancing support for students with disabilities throughout their academic and professional journeys.
Support at every step
By collaborating with Career Services, the SAC, and work-integrated learning offices, the program ensures that students are supported throughout their job search and hiring process.
"Able After Dal works in close partnership with key stakeholders across the university to offer support at every stage of the career development process," says Burek.
As the program grows, Dal is excited to keep pushing the boundaries of accessibility and inclusion, working toward a future where every student no matter their ability can unlock their full potential in the workforce.
