Pediatric Developmental Services presents
Opening Doors
PDS is proud to support the SLP and OT community at every stage of the journey. That’s why we’re opening doors for future SLPs and OTs, as well as practicing SLPs.
One mission. Two opportunities.
Opening doors for the SLP & OT community
Choose the opportunity that fits where you are in your journey.
Graduate Scholarship
We’re awarding a $1,500 scholarship to an outstanding SLP or OT graduate student who demonstrates a passion for making a difference.
Deadline: November 1ASHA Giveaway
Share your voice, inspire others and enter for a chance to win ASHA Conference registration plus a travel stipend.
Deadline: September 15For Future SLPs & OTs
Graduate Scholarship
PDS is awarding a $1,500 scholarship to an SLP or OT graduate student who is ready to open doors to communication, connection, independence and opportunity.
The Prompt
“SLPs and OTs help open doors to communication, connection, independence and opportunity. If you could open one door for the individuals you will serve in the future, what would it be and why?”
Eligibility: Current graduate students enrolled in an accredited Speech-Language Pathology or Occupational Therapy program.
Complete the application below to be considered for the $1,500 Opening Doors Graduate Scholarship.
Complete the form below to submit your Opening Doors response and enter the ASHA Giveaway.
For Practicing SLPs
ASHA Giveaway
Share your voice and inspire others by completing one meaningful sentence.
The Prompt
“As an SLP, I hope to open the door to __________________.”
How it works
The Opening Doors Wall
Every clinician has the power to open doors.
Celebrating the future SLPs, OTs and practicing professionals opening doors every day.
“I hope to open the door to confidence.”
Graduate Student“I hope to open the door to being understood.”
School-Based Clinician“I hope to open the door to meaningful connection.”
Practicing Clinician“I hope to open the door to independence.”
Graduate Student“I hope to open the door to self-advocacy.”
Future Clinician“I hope to open the door to every child reaching their full potential.”
School-Based ClinicianFrequently Asked Questions
Before You Submit
Who can apply for the graduate scholarship?
Open to Speech-Language Pathology and Occupational Therapy graduate students enrolled in an eligible graduate program. Participants must be residents of the United States. Applicants must submit all required information and follow contest rules.
What are the rules and regulations for the graduate scholarship?
Only one entry per participant. The scholarship must be applied to academic expenses, student loan payments or related fees. The winner must provide proof of enrollment in a graduate Speech-Language Pathology or Occupational Therapy program. PDS reserves the right to feature submission essays on our website and social media. The winner will be notified via email by Dec. 31, 2026. By entering the contest, participants agree to share their contact information with PDS for future opportunities.
Who can enter the ASHA Giveaway?
The giveaway is intended for practicing SLPs.
How will the ASHA Giveaway finalists be selected?
PDS will review all eligible entries and select five finalists based on originality, relevance and alignment with the Opening Doors theme.
What will ASHA Giveaway finalists need to submit?
Finalists will be asked to record a short video explaining the meaning behind their response. Final instructions and deadlines will be sent directly to each finalist.
How will public voting work?
Finalist videos will be displayed on the PDS website and social media channels for public voting.
Open New Doors
What door will you open?
Choose your opportunity and take the next step today.