Ohio College2Careers

Are you a college student with a disability? If you are, you will want to check out a new partnership between Ohio's state college and university system, the Ohio Department of Higher Education, Ohio businesses and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD). Vocational Rehabilitation counselors (VR counselors) are located in 17 public colleges and universities around Ohio to help students with job placement, technology and internships. OOD is also expanding its business relations team to connect college students with disabilities to internship and permanent employment opportunities.

Here at Kent State University, Jessica Vass is the Ohio College2Careers counselor. Jessica's office is in Student Accessibility Services located in the University Library, Suite 100. Jessica can be reached at Jessica.K.Vass@ood.ohio.gov or by phone at 330-672-8032.

Ohio College2Careers aims for students with disabilities to have the support they need to complete their degree and/or credentials, earn higher wages and meet the demands of tomorrow's labor market. 

Some of the services available through Ohio College2Careers include:

  • Career exploration and counseling.
  • Assistive technology. 
  • Résumé and interview preparation.
  • Internships and permanent employment.
  • Assistance navigating OhioMeansJobs resources.
  • Connection to an expansive employer partner network.

OOD is the state agency that helps individuals with disabilities get and keep careers. OOD serves individuals with physical, intellectual and sensory disabilities as well as mental health disorders. Further information about OOD and its services is available at ood.ohio.gov.

Meet with Jessica to find out if you are eligible for services. Or, if an online self-referral process is desired, visit www.OODWorks.com.