Greyson Jennings: ETSU Graduate

Greyson Jennings holds both a Political Science and Psychology degree as well as a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis.

"I was an active job seeker not so long ago. I am happy to share that I accepted a position of Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the State of Tennessee, Vocational Rehabilitation. I began my current position in October 2022. My position allows me to give back to my community by assisting other people with disabilities in their education and employment journey."

Grayson's top tips for a job seeker with a disability are:
1.) Have patience and learn from personal experiences. Take your time, be mindful with where you apply and enjoy the process.
2.) Make your mental health a priority and set realistic goals. Don’t pressure yourself or beat yourself up – it is a process.
3.) Keep growing and educating yourself. Continue to develop new skills and stay on top of new trends within your field.
4.) Advocate for yourself and know what accommodations you will need in order to make your job more efficient.
5.) Highlight your individual abilities of what you will bring to the position and be proud of your disability because disability isn’t a bad word.

Hannah Smith: The Recipient of the Tennessee Association of Higher Education and Disability (TN AHEAD) 2023 Award

Hannah Smith, a first-year graduate student in Speech and Language Pathology, was selected as Outstanding Student for 2023 by Tennessee Association of Higher Education and Disability (TN AHEAD) at their annual conference at Montgomery Bell State Park. She was selected by committee vote among nominees from universities and colleges across the state. Hannah is a 1911 Society member and a current Graduate Assistant in Disability Services.