Individual Development Plans
Training as a graduate student or postdoc is an incredible opportunity to hone specific scientific and communication skills that will prepare you for an impactful career and fulfilling life. Yet, with so much to learn, and numerous career paths forward, how does one prioritize the skills to develop? One approach, is using an Individual Development Plan (or IDP). An IDP combines introspective self-assessment with evaluation of your passions and interests to break your training down into actionable goals. IDPs also assist with identification of career paths that may be suited to your skills and interests.
In the Vlassakis Lab, all lab members complete an IDP. Julea will review each lab member’s IDP with them in a one-on-one meeting in January. The goal of these discussions is to 1) Recognize areas in which the trainee learned and grew in the past year; 2) Identify 2-3 areas for growth and actionable tasks to meet training goals; 3) Plan next steps in research and career development; 4) Discuss mentorship support that would enable the trainee’s progress.
Resources: MyIDP from Science Careers
Professional Development at Rice
Rice Student Success Resources
Mental Health
As summarized in “Evidence for a mental health crisis in graduate education“, alarmingly high rates of anxiety and depression impact the well-being of graduate students. Lack of work-life balance and supportive mentors may play a role. There is no time like the present to develop healthy habits and to ask for help if you need it.
Better health through science. Better science through health.
Resources: Health and Wellness at Rice University
Student Health Services at Rice University
Mindfulness Classes and Workshops at Rice
Be a Part of the Rice Community
Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies-Financial Support
Fellowships
Numerous fellowship opportunities exist for graduate students and postdocs. Fellowship support gives researchers greater flexibility to develop and pursue new research directions. Prestigious fellowships may also be helpful in obtaining your next position. Ph.D. students may consider applying for training grant fellowship programs.
Resource: Search Fellowships for Graduate Students and Postdocs