About:
CUNY LEADS is a unique comprehensive program, designed to prepare and propel CUNY students with disabilities to transition to the workforce successfully. LEADS was initially implemented in 2010 to address the huge gaps in employment rates for students with disabilities. Each CUNY campus has a LEADS advisor who collaborates with campus departments, federal and state agencies, and employers to provide career guidance and support to students.
The Program Provides Services For:
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- Career counseling and academic advisement
- Resume and cover letter preparation
- Interview preparation
- Job seeking and internship seeking assistance
- Advocacy skills, including disability disclosure and reasonable accommodations in the workforce
- Enhanced employment opportunities
- Referral assistance to ACCES-VR and New York State Commission for the Blind
Eligibility:
Queens College students and alumni within one year of graduating, who identify as having a disability or have a condition that limits their ability to function to full capacity who would like career guidance. Students should be registered with the Office of Special Services.
Advising:
Meet one-on-one with Queens College CUNY LEADS Specialist, Priscilla Saldaña, who works closely with students who identify as having a disability. In addition to career preparation, LEADS can assist with connecting students to vocational services and resources, connecting students to peers, discussing disability disclosure, how to request reasonable accommodation within employment and more!
CUNY LEADS Connect:
Schedule an appointment with our LEADS advisor, Priscilla Saldaña, using CUNY LEADS Connect.
For additional information, please email priscilla.saldana@qc.cuny.edu or call 718-997-3345
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Resources:
- 55-A Program: The 55-A Program allows qualified individuals with certified mental or physical disabilities to be hired into competitive civil service positions in New York City without taking an exam.
- 55-B & 55-C Program: New York State’s 55-B and 55-C Programs provide specialized pathways for wartime veterans and individuals with disabilities to secure entry-level positions within the state government.
- Lime Connect: Lime Connect is one of the largest networks of high-achieving students and professionals with disabilities. It connects its members to internships, full-time careers, exclusive events, and educational resources, empowering them to thrive in their careers and communities.
- Disability-Specific Resources – MOPD: The NYC Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) offers a comprehensive list of resources tailored to various disabilities, including mobility, vision, hearing, developmental, learning, and mental health.
- Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York: CIDNY is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing opportunities for people with disabilities to lead independent lives. It offers services such as benefits counseling, advocacy, and educational workshops, ensuring that individuals can maintain their independence and access necessary resources.
- Celebrating Neurodiversity. Advocating for Change. – The Neurodiversity Alliance: The Neurodiversity Alliance is a leading nonprofit organization founded by and for students who learn differently. It provides tools to launch neurodiversity clubs, scholarships, leadership opportunities, and national events to build community and raise awareness for neurodiverse individuals.
- Neurodivergent and Disability Inclusive Job Board: Workability.one is a unique job board that connects neurodiverse talent with inclusive employers worldwide. It offers a platform for job seekers to create profiles, upload resumes, and apply for jobs at no cost.
- IMPACTability: IMPACTAbility is a free career development program designed to support college students with disabilities through mentoring, skills training, networking and advocacy—empowering them to achieve meaningful employment and long-term career success.