Professional Development Institute (PDI)

What is PDI?

The Professional Development Institute or PDI is a program offered exclusively to ALL University of Arkansas students, from first-year students to grad students. PDI is "committed to enhancing students' professionalism and empowering students to present themselves successfully as candidates for employment or for graduate schools."

PDI consists of career-building workshops, easily accessed online webinars and individualized Career Coaching sponsored by the University Career Development Center.

Why join PDI?

PDI is Professional Development for the Individual. Together with your career coach, you will develop and outline your short term and long term career plans. Employers are interested in applicants who intentionally seek out opportunities to develop professionally. Add PDI to your resume. Here's an example:



Here’s what current and former PDI members have to say about the program:

How do I join PDI?

To become a member simply complete a short application by clicking on the link below.

Join PDI

What are the PDI requirements?

1. Self-Awareness

2. Career Exploration

3. Resume Writing

4. Search Strategies

5. Reflect on Career Experience

6. Interview Skills

7. Network with Professionals

(View/Download PDI Requirements Checksheet)

Interested in PDI Global Awareness Specialization?

Global Awareness Specialization Flyer

Global Awareness Specialization Requirements

To keep track of the PDI requirements that you've completed, access your student profile at http://careerlink.uark.edu

PDI Deadlines

In order to benefit fully from the program students must complete all requirements as listed above. We encourage students to complete these requirements over the course of several semesters, finishing assignments when you need that particular information or skill. To graduate from PDI, requirements must be completed by the following dates/semester:

Fall 2012, Friday, November 30, 2012
Spring 2013, Friday, April 26, 2013
Fall 2013, Friday, December 6, 2013
Spring 2014, Friday, April 25, 2014
Fall 2014, Friday, December 5, 2014

How are students recognized when they complete all PDI requirements?

All PDI graduates receive:

• a Certificate of Completion from the University Career Development Center.
• a Letter of Recognition from the Dean of the student’s college or school.
• a special gift from the University Career Development Center or Corporate Sponsor.