Accessibility and Participation

What does participation look like in the student track?

The student track is designed to be interactive, reflective, and supportive. Participation includes small-group discussions, individual reflection, use of digital materials, partnered conversations, a career panel with MSU graduates, structured interactive activities, a practice job interview, and feedback on personal career materials.

What does participation look like in the instructor track?

The instructor track is also highly interactive and discussion-based. Participation includes small-group discussions, individual reflection, use of digital materials, partnered conversations, paired feedback sessions, a disabled student panel, and structured activities focused on inclusive teaching and mentoring.

I have a disability and am wondering about access needs for participating. What should I know?

We have structured the workshop with access in mind and encourage participants to reach out with any specific questions or access needs.

The workshop will take place in Room 2202 of the STEM Teaching and Learning Facility at Michigan State University. Accessible entrances to the building and an elevator are available. Men’s and women’s restrooms are located directly across the hall and include accessible stalls. An all-gender restroom is also available.

Each day’s schedule is organized into four blocks, with two 30-minute breaks and a two-hour lunch. Workshop materials will be provided in digitally accessible formats and can be printed on request. Please let us know ahead of time if you need materials in a particular format, such as large print.

Noise levels are not expected to exceed normal conversation, group chatter, computer use, or speaker audio. Participants are welcome to use personal noise-mitigating tools. Classroom lighting includes overhead lights and large windows. If competing access needs arise, such as one participant needing brighter lighting while another benefits from lower lighting, we will do our best to address those needs thoughtfully.

Classroom table arrangements may vary by activity; we will prioritize group connection while allowing space for individual comfort.

A small refrigerator and microwave will be available. A drinking fountain is nearby, and participants are encouraged to bring and use a personal water bottle. Please let us know about any allergies or concerns about cross-contamination so we can take appropriate steps to reduce risk.

I have a disability but do not feel comfortable openly discussing or disclosing it. Is that okay?

Yes. You are not required to share any personal information, diagnosis, disability status, or perspective that you do not feel comfortable sharing. We are glad you are here, and you are welcome to participate in whatever way feels right for you.

Travel, Lodging, and Local Logistics

I’m not familiar with the Lansing area or Michigan State University. Where can I find information about lodging, food, parking, or transportation?

Please see our MSU Workshop Information page for details about nearby hotels, food options, parking, and transportation.

For transportation beyond private rideshare services, the Lansing area is served by CATA, the local public transit system. Please visit the CATA transportation website for routes and accessibility information.

If you have specific dietary restrictions, food allergies, or questions about local grocery and campus food options, please contact Tanya Adams at adamst22@michigan.gov.

Can I request to share lodging with another participant to reduce costs?

Participants are responsible for arranging their own lodging. If you want, we can on-board you early to our Slack server, where participants can connect with one another about shared lodging or other logistics.

Staying Connected

How can I stay in touch with other participants after the workshop?

We hope the workshop will be the start of an ongoing community. Participants will have opportunities to stay connected after the workshop through our Slack server, follow-up meetings, and future Courses to Careers activities. More details will be shared during the workshop!