How Identity Has Influenced a Human Resources Specialist's Career in Government
Dravidi's experience as a person with a disability has shaped their career by highlighting the readily available resources and the genuine desire of career services and employers to provide support, emphasizing that "people are not trying to attack you. They're actually trying to help you." This perspective encourages individuals with disabilities to overcome any reluctance to seek assistance, recognizing that organizations are often "prepared to help you" and create inclusive environments.
Disability in the Workplace, Workforce Recruitment Program, Career Counseling, Self-Advocacy, Resource Utilization
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Dravidi Stinnett
Human Resources Specialist
Government
California State University, Long Beach
Education
Government & Public Sector
Human Resources (HR)
Disabled, Honors Student, Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Transfer Student, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Disability services and career centers offer valuable resources and support for individuals with disabilities in their career journey, including resume review, account creation for programs like the Workforce Recruitment Program, and advocacy.
2. Reframing the perspective of disclosing a disability to employers: Instead of viewing it as a disadvantage, consider it as an opportunity for employers to understand how they can support you, even if you don't currently need accommodations.
3. Encouragement to overcome shyness and self-advocate: If you need assistance or support due to a disability, don't hesitate to come forward and seek help, as people are generally willing and prepared to provide it.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a person with a disability, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
I think it has set me up to find the resources and know that people are actually there to help you. It's not a bad thing from the career center.
When I signed up for the workforce recruitment program, somebody from Disability Services reached out to me. They helped me create an account, which I had never done before. I literally was walking on campus, I saw them, and knew they're there to advocate for me.
Even at my job, I remember going to the career center to have them look over my resume. One of the counselors said, "Don't look at it as a bad thing. When you go into this job, even if you don't need any accommodation, think of it as they want to help you." So, if something ever came up, they're already thinking, "How can I help you?"
I hadn't thought of that before. I think sometimes if you have a disability or a challenge, you wonder how you can overcome it so others see you differently. When he put it in perspective, like, "No, they literally want you. And if you get there and you need help, they're prepared to help you."
There are tons of opportunities, so don't be shy. It might be hard for some people who want to keep that to themselves. I always encourage you, if it's one time that you have to come forward to help yourself, just go ahead. People are not trying to attack you; they're actually trying to help you.