We examined how end-of-first-year students in a Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED)-affiliated EdD program were developing professional identities as educational leaders and researchers. Quantitative and qualitative data revealed substantial development of leadership skills, but even greater growth in perceptions of research skills. Qualitative data indicated students "tried out" leadership and research skills in their workplaces. These provisional efforts were consistent with the notion of "possible selves or provisional selves" in which individuals try on identities. Implications for program leaders and students are also discussed. In addition, we reported on a-study-within-a-study: We examined our efforts in learning/teaching research skills as the study was conducted.