Student Professional Advancement, Research, and Knowledge (SPARK)
In partnership with the E3@NDNU Grant, we are excited to promote the Student Professional Advancement, Research, & Knowledge (SPARK) Opportunity! SPARK empowers current full-time NDNU graduate students to grow their academic and professional development goals.
Eligible students can receive up to $2,500 to support travel, lodging, registration, and meals for academic or professional development events!
Click here to submit your SPARK application
Jessica Spikes
School of Business and Management, MBA Candidate
Jessica will be participating in the CORO Women in Leadership Training this Spring!
"As an MBA student at NDNU, I sought a leadership development opportunity that would meaningfully complement my academic training beyond workplace-based learning.
Through targeted research aligned with my long-term goals and MBA coursework, I identified the CORO Women in Leadership program, which I will begin next month. Support from the SPARK Fund made this opportunity accessible and allowed me to invest in my leadership development.
I was particularly drawn to CORO for its emphasis on diverse perspectives, applied leadership skills, and real-world learning. I am grateful that NDNU offers the SPARK Fund, as it encourages students to pursue impactful professional development opportunities and supports growth beyond the classroom."
Maxx Rodriguez
School of Psychology, MSCP/MFT/LPCC Candidate
Maxx will be attending the 2026 National American Psychoanalytic Association (APsA) Meeting in San Francisco this Spring!
"When searching for clinical conferences or training, the Bay Area has no shortage of opportunities. Being one of the essential psychology hubs, I was able to find the upcoming 2026 National Meeting (APsA). With the SPARK Fund I am able to attend this vital conference, and it opens many opportunities to engage and network with other members in the psychodynamic and analytic spaces from across the United States."
Jen Aquino
School of Psychology, MSCP/MFT/LPCC Candidate
Jennifer will be attending the 2026 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine in Seattle, Washington this Spring!
"My classmates and I collaborated to explore a range of conference opportunities, and SPARK provided a clear and accessible set of options to support that process. The application guidelines were straightforward and well-defined, which made it easy to identify opportunities that aligned with our academic and professional goals. Through SPARK, I was able to engage in professional development that meaningfully expanded my knowledge in my field and complemented my graduate training."
Click here to submit your SPARK application