An offshoot thread from today's @DisInHigherEd x @BioDiverseFest panel on Disability in Biology and STEM.

Disability disclosure:

Disclosing a disability is not only very personal, but it is an experience that is unique to each individual. The right time to disclose is when you feel comfortable and safe doing so. I tend to disclose during the application process...

...but I dread doing so. On job applications, the "voluntary" disability question actually requires an answer and dishonesty is grounds for termination. I've *never* received an invite for an interview when I've disclosed my disability on these types of standard job applications.

But I have disclosed my disability on an internship application for which I was hired. This application did not have the "voluntary" disclosure question, rather I chose to disclose in a letter attached to my transcript.

Why?

1. To explain my failed grades and withdrawals
2. To request 4 days off as an accommodation
3. To ask to be evaluated based on my contributions rather than my limitations

In this case, I didn't fear for my safety and I thought disclosing would increase my chances of being hired. I might've been discriminated against, but as @HaleyABranch said on today's panel, I didn't want to work for people who didn't care to understand.

I've been fortunate to have supportive individuals as supervisors and peers. I think that this is because I disclose early on in the process...I only get hired by people who are "ok" with disabled people. But every new job is different, so when deciding to disclose, here are...

...some things I consider:

1. Am I safe?
2. Do I need accommodations?
3. Will disclosing help others work with or understand me?
4. Can I separate my disability from my identity while at work?
5. Am I prepared for a negative reaction (emotionally, financially, with a response)?

There's no guidebook on how to disclose disabilities but I hope that my experience can help others feel a little less alone in the process!