Individual Development Plan

• Description
• Goal
• Process

Application

• Instructions and Checklist
• Career Assessment
• IDP and ABP work product abstract form
• IDP signature page
• UCSF academic CV template [PDF]

Description

The IDP provides a plan of action that identifies both professional development needs and career objectives. It is an action plan that the program director, fellow and mentor(s) use as a framework for addressing specific skills and knowledge areas, training needs, scholarly activity, research/clinical activities and requirements in their subspecialties.

Goal

Developing an IDP serves as a commitment to work towards specific short and long-term goals, a mechanism to communicate those goals, and a means to monitor progress in achieving them. Goals are more focused, training and development opportunities more aligned, and partnership and commitment with the fellows program director and mentor(s) enhanced.

Process

The IDP process is an interactive effort between the fellow, the program director and mentor(s). The fellow is responsible for their own individual growth and development and for identifying professional development goals and opportunities, seeking guidance and mentorship. Program directors and mentors are responsible for assisting the fellow through career and professional development discussions during their three years of fellowship. For the process to be effective and meaningful, each phase must be approached as a joint endeavor. Completing the IDP requires an investment of time and energy. Allow for introspection and future planning.