September 2025 - Higher Education Jobs - Higher Education Recruitment Consortium

Request Accomodations: Job candidate participating in a virtual job interview

The hiring process can be stressful for anyone, but for many neurodivergent job seekers, it comes with additional challenges. Fast-paced questions, unclear expectations, and sensory overload amplify the stress of the hiring process. Even the most qualified candidates can struggle to shine in an environment not built with their needs in mind. This is where accommodations come in.

Requesting accommodations in the hiring process is not about getting special treatment – it is about ensuring a level playing field so you can fully demonstrate your abilities.

Accommodations during the hiring process are becoming increasingly common, but many candidates hesitate to ask, unsure of their rights or how to make the request. This article will walk you through knowing your rights, identifying your needs, and requesting accommodations with confidence.

Understanding Your Rights

In the United States, two major laws protect job seekers who need accommodations: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act. Under the ADA, employers with 15 or more employees must provide reasonable accommodations during hiring unless doing so causes “undue hardship” (significant difficulty or expense). The Rehabilitation Act offers similar protections for federal agencies and contractors.

A “reasonable accommodation” is simply a change in the hiring process that allows you to compete fairly for a job. This could involve adjusting the interview format, allocating additional time for a written test, or conducting the interview in a quieter location.

You do not have to disclose your diagnosis to request an accommodation. You only need to describe how your condition affects you during the hiring process and the adjustment you are requesting. For example:

“I have a condition that affects how I process verbal information, so I would like interview questions provided in writing.”

Knowing these protections can help you approach the process with more confidence – you are not asking for a favor, you’re exercising a legal right.

Identifying Your Needs

Before requesting an accommodation, it is helpful to understand what would make the hiring process accessible for you. Start by reflecting on past interview experiences:

Were there moments where you struggled to keep up or recall details?
Did a noisy or visually busy environment distract you?
Was the pace of questioning overwhelming?

From there, consider what adjustments might help. Common hiring process accommodations include:

Receiving interview questions in advance so you can prepare your responses thoughtfully.
Displaying questions in the chat during virtual interviews for easier reference.
Extra time for assessments, such as allowing 90 minutes instead of 60 for a written test.
Alternative formats for tasks, such as submitting written answers in place of oral responses.
Quiet, low-stimulation rooms for in-person interviews.

Your needs might change depending on the type of role or the setting, so it is worth reassessing before each application process.

How and When to Request Accommodations

You can request accommodations at different points in the hiring process:

When submitting your application (if there is a voluntary accommodation section).
After receiving an interview invitation.
Anytime you notice a barrier to fully participating.

The most effective way to make the request is in writing, ensuring a clear record. Keep your email polite, professional, and focused on the functional need – not the diagnosis.

Sample email:

Dear [Name],

I’m looking forward to the interview for [position] on [date]. I would like to request the following reasonable accommodations to ensure I can fully participate:

Please provide the interview questions in advance.
Display the questions in the chat during the virtual interview.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

—

This format keeps your request clear and actionable while setting a collaborative tone.

Overcoming Common Concerns

It is normal to feel nervous or hesitant about requesting accommodations, especially if you have experienced stigma before. Many applicants worry that disclosure will hurt their chances. While discrimination is illegal, bias can still happen – which is a valid concern.

One way to reframe the request is to view it as a demonstration of professional skills: you are showing self-awareness, effective communication, and a commitment to doing the job well. That is something any employer should value. Instead of thinking, “I’m being a burden,” remind yourself, “I’m setting myself up to demonstrate my qualifications accurately.”

What to Do if Your Request is Denied

Sometimes an employer might say that they cannot provide your exact request. In these cases:

Ask for clarification – they may be able to suggest an alternative that works.
Document the communication – keep copies of emails or notes from calls.
Know your options – if you believe your rights have been violated, you can escalate internally to HR or externally to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

If an employer consistently resists reasonable accommodations, it may be a sign that their workplace culture is not as inclusive as you need. That is valuable information before accepting an offer.

Final Tips for Advocacy and Confidence

Prepare a short explanation of your needs that you can adapt for different situations.
Save a personal “accommodation request” email template for quick use.
Practice making your request with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor to build confidence.
Join neurodivergent professional networks or disability-focused job boards to exchange tips and support.
Remember: your request does not just help you – it normalizes accommodations for others who may be afraid to ask.

Conclusion

Accommodations exist to make the hiring process fair, not to give anyone an advantage. Requesting them is a way of ensuring your skills are accurately represented, so that you can be evaluated for your abilities – not your ability to navigate an unaccommodated process.

By knowing your rights, identifying your needs, and making clear and timely requests, you are both advocating for yourself and contributing to a shift in workplace culture toward greater inclusion.

Your voice matters, and so does your access.

Check out Top Articles on HERC Jobs.

About the Author: Shelby Harris is a freelance writer and public sociologist. She holds a master’s degree in Sociology from East Carolina University.

Graduating does not mean you must stop writing or wait years to publish. Getting published as a new graduate can be a powerful way to launch your career, whether you are pursuing academia, entering an industry role, or building your personal brand. However, many new graduates feel intimidated by the idea of submitting to journals or pitching to publications. You might wonder: Am I qualified? Where do I even start? The good news is that you don’t need a PhD, a book deal, or years of experience to get started.

From academic journals and trade publications to blogs and online platforms, there are multiple paths to get your ideas out into the world, and each has its benefits. This guide breaks down how new grads can start publishing strategically, build confidence, and find the right platforms for their voice, goals, and expertise.

Understanding Your Goals and Audience

Before you begin drafting or submitting your work, it is essential to clarify why you want to get published and who you want to reach. This will help you choose the right platform and shape your writing style to connect with your intended readers.

Ask yourself:

Are you hoping to pursue a career in academia and need peer-reviewed publications?
Do you want to build professional credibility in a specific field, like education, tech, or social work?
Are you passionate about sharing your ideas with a broader public through accessible, engaging writing?

Each goal points to a different kind of publishing outlet. Academic journals are great for research-heavy work and building your CV. Trade publications help you connect with professionals in your industry. Blogs and online platforms offer a more personal and flexible space to express ideas and build visibility.

Understanding your publishing purpose will make the process feel more focused and less overwhelming, and ensure your work lands in front of the right audience.

Starting with What You Already Have

You do not need to start from scratch to get published. One of the easiest ways to begin is to revise work you have already written, like a class paper, thesis, or capstone project. These assignments often contain strong ideas and research that, with a little editing, can be shaped into publishable content.

Start by identifying a key argument or insight from your original piece. Then adapt it to suit your chosen platform. For an academic article, revise for structure, citations, and clarity. For a blog or trade publication, simplify the language, focus on a central idea, and make it accessible to a broader audience.

Always get feedback before submitting—ask a professor, mentor, or peer to review your draft. They may catch issues you have overlooked or suggest ways to strengthen your pitch. Repurposing your work is smart and efficient, making it a great first step toward becoming a published writer.

Where to Publish: Journals, Blogs, and Trade Publications

Once you have clarified your goals and revised your writing, the next step is knowing where to publish. There are three primary types of outlets to consider: academic journals, blogs and online platforms, and trade publications. Each offers different opportunities depending on your career path, writing style, and audience.

Academic Journals

If you are planning to apply to graduate school, pursue a research career, or teach in higher education, peer-reviewed journals are essential. Start with student-run or graduate-level journals, which are more accessible to new writers. You can find opportunities through your department, university library, or academic associations in your field.

Consider co-authoring with a professor or using a strong paper from your coursework as a foundation. Be sure to follow each journal’s submission guidelines closely. Academic publishing has a steep learning curve, but it is worth the effort.

Blogs and Online Platforms

If you are looking to build a portfolio quickly or research a general audience, blogs are an excellent starting point. Platforms like Medium, Substack, or WordPress allow you to self-publish and experiment with your voice. You can also pitch posts to established blogs in your discipline, like GradHacker, The Thesis Whisperer, or Sociological Images.

Blogging is a great way to explore ideas informally, connect with readers, and showcase your perspective on current topics or personal experiences.

Trade Publications

Trade magazines and professional newsletters cater to individuals working in specific industries. Outlets like Inside Higher Ed, NACADA Journal, or Harvard Business Review accept articles, op-eds, and advice columns.

Learn to write a concise pitch email that outlines your idea and why it fits their audience. Publishing in a trade outlet shows industry engagement and helps build your credibility beyond academia.

Building Confidence and a Writing Routine

Publishing is not just about talent—it is about consistency, confidence, and practice. Many new graduates feel imposter syndrome and doubt whether they have anything valuable to say. Your perspective matters, and you don’t need to be an expert to contribute meaningfully.

Start by setting realistic writing goals. Write for 20-30 minutes a few times a week. Use tools like Pomodoro timers or writing playlists to stay focused. Do not wait for inspiration—treat writing as part of your routine.

Join a writing group, online or in-person, for accountability and encouragement. Participating in challenges like #AcWriMo (Academic Writing Month) or #100DaysofWriting can help you stay consistent.

Most importantly, do not fear rejection. Every writer faces it. Use feedback to improve your work and resubmit it elsewhere. Publishing is a long game, and each piece you write helps you grow your voice, sharpen your skills, and build your confidence over time.

Networking and Mentorship

You do not have to navigate the publishing world on your own. Mentorship and networking can open doors, offer guidance, and help you grow as a writer.

Start by connecting with professors, advisors, or colleagues who publish regularly. Ask for feedback, co-authoring opportunities, or suggestions on where to submit. Joining professional associations in your field is another great way to find writing opportunities, as they often share calls for papers, essay contests, and blogs looking for contributors.

Do not overlook social media either. Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter/X are filled with editors, writers, and academics who post pitch calls, submission tips, and writing advice. Engaging in these communities helps you stay informed and visible.

Publishing is easier and far more rewarding when you are part of a network. A quick conversation or shared post can lead to your next big opportunity.

Start Small, Stay Consistent, and Keep Going

Getting published as a new graduate might seem intimidating, but it is completely achievable—and incredibly rewarding. Whether you aim to build an academic profile, enter a specific industry, or simply share your voice, there is a publishing path that fits your goals. Start by revisiting your past work, identifying your audience, and exploring platforms that align with your message.

Remember, you do not need to wait for permission or perfection. Publishing is a skill you build over time through practice, feedback, and persistence. Even small steps—like a blog post or short article—can lead to bigger opportunities down the line.

Keep writing, stay open to learning, and do not be afraid to put yourself out there. The more consistently you show up, the easier it becomes to share your ideas—and the more confident you will feel doing it.