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Frequently Asked Questions:

Any undergraduate student, law student, graduate student, or recent graduate (within 2 years) from a US college or university who self-identifies as an individual with any type of disability is invited to apply.

Individuals that are not US citizens are welcome to participate in this initiative if:

  1. They are a current student at or recent graduate of US college or university
  2. They have the proper work authorization documents.

Disability:IN does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, age, disability and marital status. We highly encourage students of color, LGBTQIA+, women, and veterans to apply for our programs.

  • What are the benefits in participating in the NextGen Leader Initiatives?
    • Throughout the program, you’ll gain access to recruiters and leaders from Disability:IN corporate partners as well as NextGen Leaders to expand your network. You’ll learn how to use your disability as an asset in the corporate world. Overall, our program is a great opportunity to enhance your professional development skills and to gain personalized guidance on your industry.
  • Will I get a job by participating in the NextGen Leader Initiatives?
    • Potentially! The primary purpose of our initiatives is to strengthen students’ professional skills and expand their network into the private sector.  Some of the Disability:IN corporate partners host career mentoring days, job shadowing, and interviews just for NextGen Leaders. NextGen Leaders have had an average employment rate of 86%.
  • Will I be able to connect to other students with disabilities in this program?
    • Yes. We conduct virtual events and meetings so that all student participants can connect. You’ll also have opportunities to get to know each other through discussions led by alumni of the NextGen Leader Initiatives.

  • Do I have to have a disability to participate as a NextGen Leader?
    • Yes.
  • How long are the NextGen Leader Initiatives?
    • The NextGen Leaders Initiatives includes a six-month mentorship with a Disability:IN corporate partner and will run from March – September 2023.
  • What is the expected time commitment for Leaders?
    • The expected time commitment is approximately 4 to 6 hours per month including mentorship, webinar participation, and group discussions.
  • What does it cost to participate?
    • NOTHING! Your time, attention, commitment, and enthusiasm are all that’s needed.
  • Where can I get an accessible PDF about the Initiatives?

  • Can I stay in contact with my mentor after the program ends?
    • Yes. Many of our NextGen Leaders have continued to stay in touch with their mentors after the program ends. We also encourage you to engage with the Disability:IN team as alumni.
  • If I already have a mentor, should I still participate in the NextGen Leader Initiatives?
    • Yes. It is beneficial to have multiple mentors throughout your career, and our program can connect you with a mentor who has knowledge about working in the private sector.
Alan S headshot

Alan S.

“Overall great program that changed my perspective on what is available for a person with a disability. Learning about how companies are becoming inclusive was important. Helped me with confidence and ability to advocate for myself in the future.”

Esau at the 2022 Disability:IN Conference

Esau L.

“I can’t say thank you enough to Disability:IN for creating an invaluable experience for people who are often overlooked by providing mentorship, employment training, and employment opportunities. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”