Process and Responsibilities

Instructions for helping graduate students create their Independent Development Plans (IDPs).

1. Think broadly about traditional and alternative career opportunities in your discipline.

Think also about current job trends. Discuss career opportunities with your students.

2. Review the IDP prepared by the graduate student.

Provide honest, constructive comments. Help the graduate student design a feasible plan for research progress and professional development. Identify areas in need of further training in order to reach her/his career goal(s).

3. Create a process for regular review of the IDP.

The IDP will need to be revised as circumstances change, and it is most helpful if you as mentor and your graduate student work together to modify the IDP.