Mentoring and Professional Development

Successful careers require planning. You can take control of your career path to gain the most valuable graduate experience by making strategic choices now. Resources are available here to start. From career exploration to mapping your road to success, your major professor and mentors can help.

Think about your goals

Individual development plans (IDP) provide a tool to help guide your graduate career. Download the IDP that is appropriate for your career stage and fill it out. Work with your mentor or advisory team to identify one or two key skills to work in the coming year. 

The Science Magazine Individual Development Plan can help you identify a career path. It is worth revisiting over the course of your graduate career as you evolve as a scientist.

Prioritize your professional development

Plan a professional development activity each month!

Careers in industry, government, academia and elsewhere require development of skills beyond your research program. The Graduate School provides a wealth of year-round professional and personal development activities.

Put yourself out there

Present your research at an international, national or local meeting. Many meetings have travel awards available. Find out what resources are available and more through the links below.

Maintain a work-life balance

Make use of Purdue medical resources when needed.

Mentoring Resources