Program Description
Visionary Voices is a graduate academic enrichment program, designed to engage selected participants in research, education, and action for the larger CUNY SPS community. Visionary Voices is not only an academic enrichment program but also a leadership development opportunity that enhances graduate students' scholarly capabilities. Through its structured phases, participants immerse themselves in rigorous research, critical analysis, and the application of academic principles. This program strengthens their ability to conduct high-level research, engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, and contribute meaningful insights to the CUNY SPS community. By synthesizing academic research with practical presentation skills, Visionary Voices equips students with the intellectual tools and professional competencies necessary to excel in both academic and professional arenas.
Participants in the Visionary Voices program will be eligible to receive an educational grant upon successful completion of the program, recognizing their dedication to research, leadership, and contribution to the CUNY SPS community.
Eligibility Requirements
- Attendance at an information session is required prior to applying
- Must be a graduate student
- Must be enrolled at CUNY School of Professional Studies for at least one semester
- Must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Students must maintain a record of good conduct
- Must be eligible to enroll in classes for the entire academic year
The program consists of two phases: the research phase and the conference phase.
Research Phase
This foundational stage of the program involves gathering, analyzing, and interpreting relevant information. Participants will:
- Explore the fundamentals of research
- Choose a topic that aligns with the program's theme
- Begin preliminary research on their chosen topic
- Identify and gather relevant research materials
Conference Phase
In this stage, students will design a presentation based on the information gathered during the research phase and present it at the annual Student Leadership Conference. They will participate in various workshops to prepare for the presentation, including but not limited to:
- Cultural Awareness: Develop an understanding of your own cultural background while learning to navigate and appreciate diverse perspectives
- ADA Compliance: Learn accessibility guidelines to create presentations that are accessible to all participants
- Public Speaking: Acquire the skills needed to present confidently, using engaging elements to ensure audience engagement
- Peer Review: Participants will review each other’s projects and provide feedback
- Meetups: Meet with program coordinator and fellow Visionary Voices participations to share milestones and discuss challenges
- Feedback Session: Share experiences with the program and offer suggestions for improvement