What are the benefits of participating in Project LEAD?

• Accenting Diversity
  Project LEAD has developed procedures which have been specifically designed to promote and foster the participation, mentoring, and preparation of doctoral students from underrepresented populations including persons from culturally and linguistically diverse groups. Emphasis is also placed on accommodating the special needs of persons with disabilities. Efforts will be focused on facilitating students' full participation in the project.
  
  
• Financial Assistance
  Significant financial assistance is available to participants in this program. Funds will be made available to assist with students' personal support and academic expenses. Specifically Project LEAD will provide:
  • An annual stipend
  • Support to attend professional conferences
  • Funds to assist with the acquisition of appropriate assistive technology
  • Funds for approved related expenses on an as need basis
    
    
• Faculty Mentoring
  Project LEAD views collaborative efforts between faculty and students as an integral part of the experience. UCF's Special Education Faculty, consisting of diverse group of highly qualified individuals, is prepared to make significant contributions to support this program. Represented is doctoral preparation from a wide variety of fine institutions. Every student will be assigned a carefully selected faculty mentor since ongoing contact and support through mentorship is a key component of the program. UCF Special Education Faculty
  
  
• Research Opportunities
  Project LEAD participants will be prepared to conduct research, implement best practices based on research, and evaluate new programs and projects that serve special education students. Students are provided with opportunities to choose from a wide variety of challenging research and scholarly activities focusing on the development of competencies in designing methods and procedures, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to program development and implementation.
  
  
• Quality Internships
  Orlando and its surrounding areas offer a wide variety of opportunities for relevant experiences in the field. The University of Central Florida has agreements with several off campus sites including public and private schools, professional organizations, and local, state, and private education agencies. UCF supports many innovative research projects, education partnerships and programs in the community. Students are encouraged to become actively involved in these activities.
  
  
• Post Employment Opportunities
  Graduates will be assisted in locating and securing employment. The program will focus on the identification of doctoral student(s) career goals. Individualized programs of study will be developed to match those career goals. Every student will develop a web page and an online portfolio for potential employers to view.
  
  
• Guidance with the Admissions Process
  Project LEAD provides services to facilitate the admissions process . Special assistance may be made available to help candidates prepare for the GRE. If needed, assistance will be provided in completing other required components.