MSTP Individual Development Plan

The Individual Development Plan (IDP) is a critical tool for MSTP students to guide their academic, research, and career progression. Completed annually, the IDP encourages students to reflect on their achievements, define short- and long-term goals, and assess their skills, strengths, and areas for growth. Students are required to discuss their IDP with their mentor, Thesis Advisory Committee, or MTA Director to ensure alignment of expectations and to receive structured feedback. The MSTP IDP supports proactive career planning, fosters self-directed learning, and strengthens the mentor-mentee partnership. It also plays an important role in tracking research milestones, maintaining steady progress toward the PhD, and preparing for successful transitions into clinical training and future physician-scientist careers. Completion of the IDP is required annually of all students in the program.