Gregory Nelson, right, believes his position with FCSUA is a crucial stepping stone toward a successful career in marketing and media.
Loving where you work often brings with it satisfaction and a sense of purpose. Gregory Nelson, a second-year student in the Inclusive Education Services (IES) program, has found both.
Since the start of Fall 2024, Nelson has held a part-time paid job at the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA). He previously completed an unpaid work-based learning experience with the organization in Spring 2024.
Housed in the Toni Jennings Exceptional Education Institute within the College of Community Innovation and Education, IES provides a comprehensive college experience to non-degree-seeking adults with intellectual disabilities. An innovative, national and state-recognized certified transition program, IES immerses participating students in campus life, helping them cultivate the confidence and independence necessary for long-term employment.
FCSUA partners with colleges and universities to help create programs like IES throughout Florida. By actively promoting and implementing inclusive hiring practices, FCSUA raises awareness about the valuable contributions individuals with disabilities make in the workforce. This observance encourages businesses to recognize and break down barriers to employment, fostering a more diverse and equitable work environment. These values are also celebrated during National Disability Employment Awareness Month, celebrated each October.
Kiera Anderson, research associate, says FCSUA has been a great opportunity for Nelson.
“FCSUA does amazing work,” Anderson says. “They help so many young adults with intellectual disabilities through supporting programs that assist with developing independent living and career readiness skills. Gregory is gaining a lot of beneficial skills that will enable him to find meaningful work.”
Nelson says he was thrilled to get the position and enjoys the daily professional atmosphere.
“Everyone is so friendly at FCSUA,” Nelson says. “It's a nice, peaceful work environment, and I love being able to help them out.”
Nelson works six hours per week with FCSUA. He handles a variety of tasks — administration, photography and videography, and reception duties among them. Drexler B. James, FCSUA marketing communications specialist, says Nelson is an eager, inquisitive learner who plays an integral role in FCSUA’s operations.
“Because we travel to so many conferences, venues and events, we often don’t have time to organize the brochures and flyers we need to bring with us,” James says. “Gregory is helping us to develop a system that makes it easier to keep track of our marketing materials and stay on top of what we need.”
James acts as Nelson’s mentor and gives him regular guidance. At the end of each week, the two sit down to discuss Nelson’s work. During these meetings, James encourages Nelson to ask questions and provides feedback on his strengths and areas for improvement.
Nelson has a strong passion for working in marketing and media. Reflecting on his role at FCSUA so far, he says he feels the job will help him immensely in the long run.
“I use a lot of problem-solving skills in this job,” Nelson says. “The position has also taught me a lot about patience, and I feel it has made me wiser in some ways.”
Drew Andrews, FCSUA program director, says it’s important for everyone — especially students with intellectual disabilities — to find work they love and are passionate about. To him, it’s clear how much Nelson enjoys being part of the team.
“Gregory shows up on time every day,” Andrews says. “He's always got a smile on his face, comes in and says hi to everybody, and then sits down and gets to work.”
For other students who may be seeking employment opportunities, Nelson offers this advice: Keep going and stay positive.
“Not everything is going to come easily, but be patient and don't give up,” Nelson says. “You may have some setbacks, but at the end of the day, everything is going to be okay.”