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  Issue # 26 | May 2025
Prepare, Make an Impression and Follow-up: Interviewing for a Job
Interviews are a chance for hiring managers to get to know you and how your skills and characteristics would fit into the company, team and position you applied for. Demonstrating reputability, aptitude, confidence and enthusiasm can help set you apart from other candidates, even if you haven’t had much professional or higher educational experience yet.
Before The Interview
Once you receive the interview request, reach out to the employer to make sure you will not be required to fill out forms, take tests or travel to any place without accessible signage and language. Requesting and receiving accommodations is your right, including accessible locations and formats, translators and modifying equipment or devices.
After this step, do your research! Start by looking into the company’s mission, values, culture and re-reading the job description, focusing on what skills, qualities and responsibilities they expect from a candidate. Then, practice common interview questions. Remember that evaluators like to hear unique, personal and concise answers that show genuine interest in the field. Keep your prior research in mind to (honestly and genuinely) tailor your work ethic, goals and relevance/experience to the company.
Additionally, prepare some questions you would like to ask the interviewer when prompted. While you should typically avoid inquiries regarding salary, leave and company insurance, requesting useful information is a way to seem authentic and excited.
During the Interview
Make sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early, dress professionally and hygienically, and be kind and sociable to everyone you meet prior to seeing the hiring manager. It may also be a good idea to bring physical copies of your resume, references (if applicable) and a pen and paper for taking notes.
While speaking with the interviewer, pay close attention to your body language (smile, sit up straight and keep your tone of voice professional), listen fully to questions without interrupting, and answer concisely and directly without getting off track. Remain calm, confident, enthusiastic and frame yourself in a positive way without lying, overexaggerating or talking negatively about your past employer. Building rapport with the hiring manager could ultimately make or break the offer of employment, so be as kind, polite, and as courteous of their time and energy as you possibly can be!
After the Interview
At the end of the interview, remember to ask follow-up questions, shake the hiring manager’s hand and thank them for their time. Sending a follow-up email or phone call extending gratitude for the opportunity and re-expressing your interest in the role can also set you apart in the pool of applicants.
If the employer makes you feel uncomfortable through discriminatory or inappropriate words or actions, you may politely shake their hand, thank them for their time and decline to pursue working with their company. See the Growing Through Career Conversations Recap article below for more information.
Even if you don’t receive an employment offer, don’t worry – there are still many positions and companies that are the right fit for you, your skillset, passions and goals! In the meantime, think of this interview as an opportunity for practice, keep up with your research and rehearsal skills and stay persistent in your job search.
More Resources
Don't forget to check out the BSBP Pre-ETS/Transition Services page and see what new and exciting programs are planned. Explore, sign up and connect with your counselor today regarding any questions.
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Our goal is to help students aged 14 to 26 to successfully make the transition from high school to postsecondary education or employment. We offer lots of exciting camps and weekend trips to help you learn while having some fun and meeting other students who are Blind and Visually impaired across the state!
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Check out this list of scholarship and grant opportunities from around the country.
Please check the specific application deadline and requirements for each because they vary.
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Last month, many of our BSBP Pre-ETS students had to opportunity to attend Growing Through Career Conversations in Grand Rapids and Belleville to learn about disability disclosure and discrimination. BSBP, MDE-RBLV, SuccessABILITY, the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) and a panel of professionals with disabilities facilitated the program. One of the many topics covered at the event included the ADA, applicant and employer rights, discrimination claims and navigating interviews with a disability:
What is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits disability discrimination by the state and federal governments, public and private schools, employers (with 15 or more employees), employment agencies, labor organizations, labor-management committees, and any space that offers goods and services to the public.
You are protected by the ADA if you have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity (this includes visual impairments). The ADA also protects you if you have a history of such a disability, or if an employer believes that you have such a disability, even if you don't.
Your Rights Under the ADA:
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Equal Opportunity: Employers must evaluate candidates based on qualifications, not disability.
- Disclosure of a disability and requesting accommodations are not mandatory; however, if there are certain essential functions you are unable to perform that you will need accommodations for, you must (in Michigan) let your employer know within 180 days of employment.
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Right to Request Reasonable Accommodations: Employees have the right to request a reasonable accommodation to support their ability to perform essential job duties. This can be done in a job application, during an interview/pre-offer period, or through an official accommodation request letter.
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Right to File Complaints without Retaliation: You may file a charge of discrimination on the basis of disability by contacting any MDCR Field Office.
What Are Employers Allowed to Ask Me During an Interview?
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What is Allowed During an Interview:
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What is NOT Allowed During an Interview:
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Asking if the applicant has a disability in a job application.
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Asking if the applicant has a disability in an interview or requiring disclosure before a conditional offer.
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Refusal to hire if the applicant cannot perform essential job functions without reasonable accommodations.
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Refusal to interview or hire due to a disability if the applicant can perform the job’s essential functions with or without reasonable accommodations.
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Questions about a disability and necessary accommodations in relation to job performance (only if it has been disclosed, provided it is not apparent).
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Questions designed to reveal a disability and the severity, nature or history of a disability.
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Questions about the ability to perform the duties assigned to the role, including physical, mental, and travel-related job requirements.
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Questions about the ability to perform tasks unrelated to the role.
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Questions about authorization to work in the United States, prior work experience, skills and qualifications that are job-related.
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Questions about medical history, past worker’s compensation claims, government benefits, family history and genetic information.
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Questions about previous attendance records, as long as they are not disability-related.
Asking whether the applicant can meet work schedules and attendance policies, as long as the question is asked to all applicants.
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Questions about disability-related medical leave (e.g., “Will you need to take medical leave for disability-related reasons?” or “How many times were you out sick in your last position?”)
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Requiring a medical examination after a conditional job offer, provided that:
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The exam is required for all candidates in similar roles.
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The results are kept confidential.
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The information is not used to discriminate against an employee.
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Requiring a medical examination prior to a job offer.
Distributing separate examinations/inquiries to an individual because of their disability.
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Questions about current illegal drug usage.
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Questions about legal prescription, past drug addiction or rehabilitation history.
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Additional Resources:
Much of the above information was derived from a Growing Through Career Conversations handout created by SuccessABILITY. Across the state, SuccessABILITY focuses on finding and securing competitive job opportunities, providing hands-on training in the workplace, and helping their clients gain valuable experience in the community. Their team, led by a Certified Employment Support Professional, supports their clients in landing long-term employment and strives to help everyone reach their full potential!
To learn more about their services, reach out to Myryah Marino at successabilitymyryah@gmail.com.
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Are you a High School Junior, Senior or recent high school graduate, looking for real-life college experience before becoming a full-time student? If so, join us this summer for College Prep, a program designed to provide BSBP customers with the training and skills needed to become successful full-time college students!
- Take an in-person WMU Class and receive credit!
- Gain college readiness skills needed for your transition to college!
- Experience campus and dorm life as a student!
- Enjoy a college social life including café experiences and student center access!
- Work a part-time on campus job and earn a bi-weekly paycheck!
The program will take place at Western Michigan University (1903 W. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008) from June 26-August 15, 2025.
All participants must be 17 years of age or older. Interested students must complete the Post-Secondary Readiness Assessment and provide an official High School transcript prior to the start of College Prep.
Apply here by May 12.
For more Information, contact Cherelle Singleton at Singletonc5@michigan.gov
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The BSBP Training Center (BSBPTC) in Kalamazoo will be hosting many programs this summer focused on postsecondary and workplace readiness, financial literacy, daily living skills and STEMM fields. Participants may register to attend a combination of programs while onsite at the Training Center.
To register, please contact your BSBP counselor for a referral. A completed medical form or physical is required.
Post-Secondary Assessment
Summer Session 1: June 8-20
Summer Session 2: June 15-27
The Post-Secondary Assessment (PSA) is a two-week program designed to have participants demonstrate the required skills for success in a postsecondary education environment. Participants demonstrate and further build skills in areas they will need to live independently while taking classes and participate in a variety of auxiliary activities. Participants should plan on bringing their devices.
Focus areas will include Orientation & Mobility, Assistive Technology, Independent Living, Workplace Readiness Training, Counseling for Post-Secondary Education, Job Exploration Counseling, and Work-based learning. Auxiliary areas will include navigating a college campus, accessing campus resources, utilizing accessible textbook resources, balancing classes and employment, and managing Social Security benefits.
Eligibility: Individuals 16 years old or older who are blind or low vision and who would like to pursue further education in a post-secondary education environment, such as college or trades certification. This program is required for participants interested in BSBP postsecondary education sponsorship and session 1 is required for students planning on attending this year’s 2025 College Prep Program.
Registration Deadlines:
Session 1: Tuesday, May 16, 2025
Session 2: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
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Workplace Readiness Training
When: Sunday, July 6 - Friday, August 1, 2025
Are you seeking customized training for workplace readiness skills and wanting to learn how to improve and refine your skills to be successful in post-secondary education or employment? Come join us for customized training to develop skills necessary to get job ready. Complete Workplace Readiness and STEMM Camp, and you’ll qualify to receive a pair of Ray-Ban Meta glasses!
This is a customized training for Pre-ETS students to target areas that have been identified as needing improvement for success in a post-secondary environment or employment. Training can be available for participants needed enhanced training throughout the summer. Training can include computers, assistive technology, self-advocacy instruction, career exploration, braille, adaptive living techniques, orientation and mobility, finance education and leisure activities.
Eligibility: Students ages 14-26 years old who are blind or low vision and who are interested in intensive residential training at the BSBP Training Center Campus.
Registration Deadline: Tuesday, June 10, 2025
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Practice Adulting!
When: August 3-8, 2025
This program is designed to help transition teenagers into adulthood. It will use real world situations to create a safe environment where teenagers can practice the financial aspects of being an adult.
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Paid Work Experience – Work a retail job at Goodwill in Kalamazoo.
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Appropriate interview clothing – Buy appropriate clothing for an interview with money provided by BSBP.
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Choosing and renting an apartment – Compare apartment amenities, learn about paperwork needed to rent an apartment and how to sign up for utilities.
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Budget – Learn how to budget work salary to pay for rent, utilities, other needs, wants and savings.
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Compare transportation options – Compare money and time costs for different transportation options.
Eligibility: Ideal candidates for this program should be 16-18, planning on living independently as an adult and interested in getting more experience with financial independence. Background check, work permit and medical forms are required.
Registration Deadline: June 14, 2025
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R U Ready?
When: Sunday, August 3-7, 2025
Are you unsure of the commitment to stay overnight at a residential training facility such as the BSBP Training Center, but think you could benefit from such a program? Come join us for a four and a half-day program where you will experience what the Training Center Campus has to offer.
Participants will reside at the BSBP Training Center and complete programing on-site and within the local community. This will include self-advocacy instruction, career exploration, adaptive living techniques, orientation and mobility experiences, finance education and leisure activities. This program is intended as the first step in preparation for future transition services to help students meet their goals.
Eligibility: Individuals ages 14 years old or older who are blind or low vision, have additional functional limitations, and who have NOT previously stayed overnight at the BSBP Training Center and would like to discover if they are ready for an extended intense residential training.
Registration Deadline: June 27, 2025
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Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) Camp
Date: July 27-August 1, 2025
Thinking about planning your education and career journey? Would you like an opportunity to learn first aid basics? Check out the STEMM Camp to see where science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine might take you!
The STEMM Career Exploration Lab program utilizes a combination of the latest in 3D printing and wearable AI assistive technologies, specially designed 3D printed tactile models, kinesthetic activities, STEMM field trips to local museums and businesses, and talks with successful STEMM professionals who are blind to teach astronomy and important STEMM concepts to students to better prepare them for STEMM educational and career paths. Students learn more about accessibility of STEMM classes, careers in STEMM fields and how to use some of the latest 3D printing and AI assistive technologies.
The program helps reduce accessibility barriers so students are better prepared to pursue a STEMM education and career. Students will have an opportunity to learn medical technology (AED machines), learn about first aid basics, and an opportunity to earn CPR certification. The STEMM component is in partnership with scientists from the San Jose State University’s Department of Physics and Astronomy and NASA.
Eligibility: Students in grades 8-12 who are blind or low vision and who are interested in learning more about the STEMM field.
Registration Deadline: June 27, 2025
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BSBP Training Center Community Partner Days
Calling all Community Rehabilitation Programs! Join us at the BSBP Training Center (BSBPTC) on June 4 and 5 to explore BSBPTC programs and services offered, including an overview on O&M, assistive technology, career planning, vocational assessments, work readiness training, adaptive kitchen skills, and more! There will be an opportunity to speak with Training Center management, counselors and teachers regarding classes and career planning, learn sighted guide techniques, tour the campus, observe classes, interact with students, and see demonstrations of assistive technology, among other activities.
June 4: 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
June 5: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Location: BSBP Training Center 1541 Oakland Drive Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Register here by May 23.
For more information, please contact your local BSBP field counselor or the Training Center at LEO-BSBPTrainingCenter@michigan.gov or (269) 337-3848.
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May 10, 2025
Students in middle and high school – are you interested in showing off your O&M skills, getting feedback, prizes, and time to socialize? The Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired is co-hosting West Michigan Regional Cane Quest 2025 with Michigan Department of Education Resources for Blind/Low Vision. Cane Quest is a challenging, fun orientation and mobility contest for all students in grades 3-12 who use a white cane.
Cane Quest contestants are divided into three age categories – scouts, explorers, and trailblazers – and are asked to demonstrate fundamental orientation and mobility skills and travel techniques, such as sound localization, dropped objects, and proper human guide techniques.
West Michigan Cane Quest 2025 will take place at 350 Lafayette Ave. SE in Grand Rapids on May 10, 2025, from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Register your student here.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact Josh Thomas at the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired via email at Josh.thomas@maryfreebed.com.
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BSBP Clients receiving transition services (ages 16 to 24), join Asppire for their No Barriers Summer Experience at the Eagle Village in Hersey, MI on Wednesday, June 11 through Sunday, June 15, 2025! This five-day program will offer 58 hours of activities and help you learn about self-advocacy, leadership skills and the seven elements of the “No Barriers” curriculum:
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Vision: Define a purpose that inspires you to give your best back to the world.
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Reach: Move beyond your comfort zone to grow and reach your goals.
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Alchemy: Harness life experience into optimism.
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Pioneer: Persevere through challenges to innovate.
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Rope Team: Collaborate and connect with others to build strong communities.
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Summits: Find the gifts earned through the struggle.
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Elevate: Impact the world as a leader who serves.
This program will make you reach beyond your comfort levels to push yourself to achieve your goals and dreams! Upon approval from your BSBP rehabilitation professional, you will receive a detailed itinerary, waiver to participate and suggested packing list.
Space is limited. Register by May 16 here.
For more information contact Maria Peak, Director or ASPPIRE of mid-Michigan, at mpeak@asppireofmidmichigan.com.
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Students aged 12-17 who are blind and low vision – join the Michigan Department of Education Resource for Blind/Low Vision (MDE-RBLV) at Camp Tuhsmeheta for their annual Outdoor Adventure Camp! Campers will experience many adventures at this three-night camp.
Participants will have an opportunity to hike, practice archery, play sports, scale the climbing tower, swim, fish, create art and enjoy campfires. Campers will also have the option to set up and stay in their own individual tents for a night. Don’t miss out on making camp memories with friends!
The program will take place at Camp Tuhsmeheta (10500 Lincoln Lake Ave. NE, Greenville, MI 48838) from Sunday, June 22 to Wednesday, June 25. The cost will be $5 per camper.
Register here by June 4.
For more information, contact MDE-LIO Events, mde-lio-events@michigan.gov.
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Middle and high school aged students (11-17 years old) who are blind/low vision and interested in learning to cook and bake, test your skills for creating delicious dishes!
Join the Michigan Department of Education Resource for Blind/Low Vision (MDE-RBLV) for the Top Chef: Independent Living Skills Camp at Camp Tuhsmeheta for a couple of fun days in the kitchen along with some built-in evening camp activities!
Learn how to cut and peel veggies, grill a sandwich, brown meat and prepare fun food fit for serving guests! You will create sweet bread, paninis, pastries, veggie pizza, shepherd’s pie and a Mediterranean couscous bowl! Families are invited to join us on Saturday night to enjoy dinner with their Top Chefs before heading home!
Location
Camp Tuhsmeheta
10500 Lincoln Lake Ave. NE
Greenville, MI 48838
Check in at 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, 2025, and check out at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025.
Cost: $5 per camper
Register by June 30 here.
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Do you have an awesome BSBP counselor who goes above and beyond to help you (or your child) achieve your goals? Well now you can tell the world about them😊!
We would love to feature your counselor in one of our upcoming monthly newsletters! Complete your quick and easy nomination at https://forms.gle/i2EkPg72Z6927xEd8.
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Not a student currently working with BSBP and want to get in on the action?
BSBP has offices across the state and can meet you in the comfort of your own home and/or school. Contact our BSBP mainline at 1-800-292-4200 to get started or visit this link for office locations.
Questions for the Pre-ETS Team? Reach out to LEO-BSBPTransition@michigan.gov.
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Get personalized voter information on early voting and other topics |
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