Moving from university to employment as a neurodivergent student with Josh from Evenbreak

Posted on 10 April 2026 • Disabilities and health conditions, Job search

Neurodiversity refers to the variety in how people think, process information and interact with the world. It includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, other sensory processing differences, as well as those who identify as neurodivergent without a formal diagnosis. Each individual’s experience is unique and many traits may overlap.

More students are identifying as neurodivergent at university, with 28% reporting some form of neurodivergence (Student Beans, 2025). This shows the need for effective support during both academic life and the transition to employment and beyond. Many institutions are responding with initiatives like the Disabled Students Commitment to improve support.

Still, entering the workforce as a neurodivergent person presents challenges, including:

• Recruitment processes that rely heavily on jargon
• Limited flexibility offered
• Failure to provide interview questions in advance

Further barriers can be found in the workplace:

• Unclear communication
• Environments that don’t account for sensory needs
• Stigma and misunderstanding (around issues like masking and burnout)

When employers foster inclusive environments, neurodivergent staff bring strengths such as attention to detail, analytical thinking, creativity, resilience and unique perspectives. Diverse workplaces consistently outperform others in innovation, problem-solving and retention (Accenture, 2018).

Supporting neurodivergent applicants doesn’t require major changes. Small adjustments, like flexible or remote work, quiet spaces, buddy schemes and assistive technology, can make a big difference. Needs will vary, but open communication and adaptability are key.

As someone with a stutter, I know it can be hard to tell if employers are taking real action or just expressing good intentions. Intent is only a starting point; impact is what matters.

If you’re a disabled student at The Open University preparing for your first job or a career change, Evenbreak can assist. Run by and for people with lived experience of disability, Evenbreak connects candidates with inclusive employers who recognise the value of creating a diverse workplace, as well as providing free career resources to help you make the transition. Each week, a selection of roles is posted on OpportunityHub, so take a look to discover the latest vacancies.

Josh Wright is the Candidate and Partnerships Coordinator at Evenbreak, a global disability job board run by and for disabled people. For the past three years, he has worked closely with universities, supporting students and staff by showcasing the resources and opportunities Evenbreak provides. View Evenbreak’s graduate and internship opportunities and listen to discussing your neurodivergence and reasonable adjustments with an employer.