Familiarize Yourself with an IDP

Prior to the session, take around 30 minutes and complete an IDP template by following the steps below (provided by Cara Mitnick). The session will explore ways to maximize skills, interests and values to align with career goals.

Science and engineering students generally complete myIDP, and we recommend you familiarize yourself with that platform. There are several IDP models, and many students complete more than one IDP platform, so choose one (or more) that best suits your program and goals.

  • https://myidp.sciencecareers.org/ (science, technology, engineering)
  • https://chemidp.acs.org/ (chemistry)
  • imaginephd.com (This IDP was created for social sciences and humanities and for scientists or chemists interested in policy, advocacy or careers adjacent to their field of study, but it has been found that a sizable percentage of the users are in STEM fields) 

Directions:

  1. Create an IDP account, input your relevant information 
  2. Take the 3 self-assessments – skills, interests, and values
    (Note: ChemIDP has skills and interests only. For ImaginePhD, to do the Skills assessment, choose job families, then go to bottom of page and click on “Continue Assessment”)
  3. Explore Careers
    myIDP: review “Consider Career Fit”
    ImaginePhD: review two job families located in “Resources” tab
  4. Set Goals
    myIDP: set at least one goal in Career Advancement, Skills and Projects
    ImaginePhD: visit the “My Plan” section and create three goals