Student Services

1. What is CUNY LEADS?

LEADS is a unique partnership between the City University of New York (CUNY) and Vocational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID), designed to provide students with disabilities on the CUNY campuses with support that will facilitate successful career outcomes.

2. Who may be eligible for LEADS?

CUNY students with disabilities who are currently registered in:

• Degree and Non Degree Programs
• Adult and Continuing Education
• Allied Programs

Students do not have to be registered with the campus disabilities office to qualify for LEADS

3. What makes someone eligible?

A student may be considered ‘presumed eligible' providing they meet the following requirements:

1. The presence of a documented disability
2. The understanding that this disability creates an impairment to employment
3. The expectation that with services, this person will be obtain employment.

4. What services can be provided if I am eligible?

Example of services may include:

• Free textbooks if eligible
• Assistance obtaining disability documentation
• Assistance with tuition
• On campus career counseling
• Personalized pre-registration advisement
• Placement assistance
• Additional services as per ‘individualized plan for employment'

Eligibility must be determined by the VESID counselor.
All services are free and confidential

5. What if I am already registered with VESID?

If you have an open case with VESID, you may meet with the CUNY LEADS counselor on campus who may register you with the LEADS Program. OR Talk with your VESID counselor who can connect you with your campus CUNY LEADS counselor

6. Can LEADS really help me to get a job?

• The LEADS Project will provide you with the on campus support that can empower you with the skills needed to obtain employment in the current labor market.
• The LEADS counselor is available to provide advisement, career counseling and other as needed assistance right on your home CUNY campus.
• You will have access to individualized and workshop assistance regarding resumes, interviews, and finding and maintaining employment.
• Once you are employed, the LEADS counselor will continue to maintain contact to provide support while you are adjusting to your new job.