For every student, transitioning out of college and into the real world is a big change.  Throw having a learning disability into the mix, and it’s even more daunting.

After four years at High Point University in High Point, North Carolina, I graduated in May 2011 with degrees in strategic communications and political science. After many years of struggling with both AD/HD and nonverbal learning disorder, I had proven that I and others like me can rise above a label and beat a statistic.

Two months after graduation, I moved to Washington, DC, to pursue a career in politics. While the road has been bumpy and I don’t yet have a full-time position, I was lucky enough to be able to return to the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) to work in public policy. (I’d previously been an intern with NCLD in the summer of 2009.)  Working for NCLD is a great experience, as I’m working in public policy to bring change to issues about which I care so much. In addition, I’m lucky enough to work with people who are understanding of the way I process things and approach different situations.

Not every position I have will be as easy as this, though, and it’s important for everyone to learn about transitioning out of school and into employment with a learning disability. Disclosing my disability and deciding whether or not to ask for any special considerations is a difficult decision that I face. While I may sometimes need to do things in a different way, I don’t want an employer to think that I can’t perform the duties necessary for a position.

Ultimately, I’ve chosen to be completely honest about my disability with my future employer, as a little education and understanding can help all involved. In addition, I’m proud of who I am, disability and all, and I wouldn’t want to work for an employer who couldn’t accept that. (For more information about disclosing a disability, check out this article on LD.org: Disclosure on the Job.)

If you’re getting ready to graduate, my best advice is to start deciding what your plan is now. Starting early allows you to plan your roadmap to success. Whether you decide where you want to be or what you want to do, you’ll avoid panic in the future and be that much closer to attaining your dream job. Your first job probably won’t last for thirty years, but it will make the road thereafter so much easier. And, remember – your greatest disability is also your greatest asset, as you’ve gotten this far only because you’ve risen above a title and showcased your skills; continue to do that and the world will be your oyster!