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VR Contact Report—Work Readiness Training

Ethan was in today as scheduled. Upon arriving, he proudly showed this counselor his driver's license. He used his script to request the audio version of the test and passed! When asked, he said, "It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. The guy who helped me was pretty nice…it was really no big deal."

When asked what he learned about self-employment from the website, Ethan indicated that he was overwhelmed by the expectations. He had not considered the competition or marketing aspects of a business. He's still thinking about it. To help him make an informed decision, I suggested he consider doing an informational interview with somebody who owns a shop. He said his Uncle Bill has a neighbor who is a mechanic for a competitive motorcycle team. I encouraged him to talk with his Uncle Bill to get contact information. I informed Ethan I would help him prepare for and conduct the call. He agreed to call his uncle and keep me posted.

Ethan is ready for a work experience. After some brainstorming about jobs of interest, Ethan settled on the following possibilities:

  1. Working as a parts clerk in an auto parts store
  2. Working as a "gopher" or mechanics helper at the private aviation center at the airport
  3. Working as a mechanic's helper at a local motorcycle sales and repair shop

To help Ethan prepare for upcoming applications, we:

  • Reviewed job descriptions of the above job titles to decide if he could do them with or without his accommodations. He believed he could.
  • Completed the Master Application for Ethan's reference when applying for jobs (See below.)
  • Conducted a mock interview wherein Ethan practiced answering typical interview questions and using his accommodation scripts.
  • Reviewed employers' expectations listed on the Everyday Habits infographic below. Ethan was informed that these skills are required of everyone in every job; that is, they are necessary for all of us to get and keep a job.

Infographic with "Everyday Habits Everyone Needs To Get and Keep a Job." Four headings and accompanying icons follow clock with "dependability,"; mirror with "appearance"; smiley face with a baseball hat and thumbs-up with "attitude," singer with mic, surrounded by a semi-circle of stars with "persistence," followed by Work hard, do your best, don't give up, you're a rock star! Further content is described in the narrative above image.

TOOL!

Ethan says he feels better prepared to apply for a job. Ethan's name was added to the list of students who are work experience ready, which will be shared with our Business Services team for consideration when meeting with employers in our community.

Ethan seemed empowered today. By the end of our appointment, he could recite typical employer expectations without hesitation, and he tackled the mock interview rather than avoiding it with an excuse. I shared my observations with Ethan, who smiled and appeared pleased with his progress.

Next appointment: Conduct an Informational Interview

Master Application Trifold Brochure-OUTSIDE

Image of trifold brochure wherein each section of the trifold, both front and back contains information about the applicant: Contact Information, Name, Education, Work History, References. One the remaining section is a saying in bold large print: "Every day, in every way, I'm choosing my own path. It's up to me."

Master Application Trifold Brochure-INSIDE

Master App Backside

TOOL!

map pt.png

My Trail to Success Checklist: Input and save the information Ethan gathered about employer expectations and how to complete a job application and check off his demonstrated ability to explain his disability and needed accommodations.