The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) helps students with disabilities, including college students, to evaluate skills and interests, set career goals and obtain vocational success.
Students, ages 14 and up, who have limitations and need assistance with learning, seeing, hearing, communicating, coping with stress or participating in physical activities may be eligible for services from DRS.
DRS can provide students with disabilities with educational assistance and/or training and other necessary services to help you get started in your chosen career. Some of those services may include:
Career guidance and counseling – DRS vocational rehabilitation counselors provide ongoing counseling and guidance to consumers to help them successfully meet their employment goals.
Evaluation and diagnostic services – to help determine eligibility and the services needed for a consumer to become employed.
College or university assistance – to help students with education and training leading to a degree.
Vocational training – to help with occupational, vocational or job skill training in a vocational, trade, technical or business school to prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.
On-the-job training, internships or apprenticeships – training to help students in specific job skills by a prospective employer.
Assistive technology – to help consumers in the selection, acquisition or use of an assistive technology device.
Job search assistance – to help consumers search for an appropriate job and includes résumé development, identifying suitable job opportunities, developing interview skills, and making contacts with employers on behalf of the consumer.
Direct placement to work – to help consumers with placement assistance to a specific job resulting in an interview and/or employment.
Job-related support services – to help consumers prepare for and maintain employment including things like occupational licenses, tools and equipment, clothing and transportation costs.
Workplace accommodations – an adjustment to a job or work environment that makes it possible for an individual with a disability to perform their job duties and may include specialized equipment, modifications to the work environment or adjustments to work schedules or responsibilities.