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Graduate Student Professional Development Guide

This professional development guide provides a framework to support graduate students in navigating resources, activities, and workshops that enable professional development across each of the following core competency areas, which complement your disciplinary training and prepare you for a successful entrance in the workplace and for lifelong career management regardless of your field of study. 

We will continue to expand resources and offerings in each area as we seek to support you to become a well-rounded professional, equipped with the tools you need to be competitive for a wide variety of careers.

How We Help You Succeed…

Personal Development & Well-being

Learn how to maximize your well-being to thrive in your academic, personal and professional life.

Communication

Learn how to communicate effectively to succeed on a wide variety of careers.

Teaching & Mentoring

Learn how to teach and mentor and develop professional skills such as communication, collaboration, empathy and time management.

Research, Data Analysis & Grant Writing

Find resources to responsibly conduct independent and original research.

Leadership & Collaboration

Learn about the leadership and collaboration skills that help you create innovative ideas to address society's challenges.

Career Development & Management

Explore and prepare for multiple career opportunities.

This graduate student professional development guide was initially developed by Dr. Marie-Anne de Graaff, currently associate dean of research, creative activity and graduate education in the College of Arts and Sciences (COAS), and reflects a continued collaboration between the Graduate College and COAS.