The Power of Community: Why the CEC Convention is a Must for Special Education Students
Finding a Home in Special Education
When Saurym first stepped into the world of education, she had no idea how deeply she would become involved in the special education field. Starting as a K-6 elementary teacher, she quickly realized there was a gap in her knowledge, particularly when it came to supporting students with and at-risk of disabilities in Title 1 schools. This desire to improve led her to pursue a master’s degree with a focus on special education.
During her master’s program, she was first introduced to the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). Initially, she joined simply because she was encouraged to do so. However, as she attended local conferences and engaged with the student chapter at her university, she realized the immense value CEC offered.
Fast forward to her doctoral program at Florida State University, and her connection to CEC deepened. Encouraged by professors and peers, she became actively involved in leadership roles, eventually co-advising a student chapter. Her role as a student advisor is more than just mentorship; it’s about connecting students to the larger CEC community, helping them understand its mission, and guiding them in utilizing the organization’s resources to advance their careers and support exceptional students effectively.
Why Attending the CEC Convention & Expo is a Game-Changer for Students
One of the highlights of being part of CEC is the annual convention, an event that brings together students, educators, and experts in the field of special education. For students, the convention is not just an event—it’s an opportunity to gain insight into their future profession and find a supportive community that understands their journey.
The convention allows students to hear directly from educators in the field. It provides a space where students can share experiences, validate their struggles, and gain strategies for success. The ability to see the breadth of special education topics at the convention means that each attendee can tailor their experience to their personal and professional interests.
A significant benefit of attending the convention is the networking opportunities. Student chapters from across the country and even internationally come together, fostering relationships that extend beyond the event itself. These interactions don’t just happen in formal sessions—they occur over coffee, during breakout discussions, and in casual meetups where students find peers to connect with.
Growing Professionally Through the Convention
Beyond networking, the convention plays a crucial role in professional development. It provides students with exposure to leading experts, best practices, and emerging research in special education. More importantly, it reinforces the idea that CEC is a long-term professional home, not just an organization to be part of while in school.
For many students, attending the convention solidifies their commitment to special education. It shows them that they are not alone in their challenges and that they have a vast network of support.
Making the Most of the Convention
For students attending the CEC Convention, preparation is key. Here are some tips to maximize the experience:
- Use the Whova App: This app helps organize schedules, but don’t feel bound to it. If a session resonates, stay longer and connect with the speaker. Have two to three sessions to attend in each time frame, just in case any scheduled session is at capacity.
- Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Rather than rushing from session to session, focus on making meaningful connections with attendees and speakers.
- Be Present: Engage in discussions, ask questions, and take advantage of informal networking moments.
- Gather Contact Information: Don’t just collect business cards—follow up with emails or social media connections to maintain relationships.
- Remain Open to New Experiences: Some of the best connections and insights happen outside scheduled sessions.
Looking Ahead
For Saurym, one of the most exciting aspects of this year’s convention is the sense of family that comes with it. Despite its large scale, the CEC Convention always feels like a reunion of passionate professionals dedicated to the same cause.
What she wants students to know is simple: The convention is more than just a professional event. It’s a place to build your tribe, find mentors, and establish the connections that will support you throughout your career in and outside the classroom. Whether you’re just starting in special education or preparing to enter the workforce, the convention offers invaluable experiences that will shape your professional journey.
Attending the CEC Convention isn’t just about learning—it’s about belonging. It’s a chance to refuel your passion, find your people, and become part of something bigger than yourself. So, if you’re considering attending, take the leap. Your future colleagues, mentors, and friends are waiting to meet you.
Each year at the CEC Convention & Expo, thousands of special education professionals from around the world come together to learn, share, grow, and connect.