Trainees & Early Career Professionals

AUCD encourages trainees to be involved in the national network of LEND, UCEDD, and IDDRC programs and has created a number of opportunities for trainee involvement.

An AUCD Trainee is any individual who is enrolled in one of AUCD's LEND, UCEDD, or IDDRC programs. A trainee might be an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral student in a discipline such as audiology or social work; a trainee might be a fellow in pediatrics or psychology; a trainee might be a research assistant working on a genetic disorder or a family member learning about leadership. All trainees have a common desire to continue learning about helping and working with individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
  There are over 4,000 AUCD trainees enrolled in the nation's LEND, UCEDD, and IDDRC programs. By being a trainee at an AUCD-member program, individuals are also members of AUCD. These AUCD trainees form a network and can learn from each other by discussing and sharing their common interests and unique experiences.
   Are you an AUCD trainee?

As you begin your journey with AUCD, these three Trainee Orientation Modules will help you learn, connect, get involved, and grow as part of the network. Each includes videos and links to related resources. They were created with input and support from a range of leaders, including recent trainees. The information is sequenced so you can gradually build your understanding, but feel free to jump in wherever and whenever you are ready to start!