Start Writing

What is a Resume?

A resume is a brief snapshot of your work and educational history.  It should be between 1 and 3 pages long and should be easy for potential employers to skim for relevant information.

A successful resume must include:

•       Contact Information
•       An Objective
•       Work Experience
•       Education (Highest degree listed first; this includes degrees in progress, as well)

A successful resume may include:

•       Languages (written/spoken proficiency)
•       Computer Skills (software proficiency)
•       Volunteer and/or Community Service Experience
•       Certifications
•       Professional Memberships
•       Awards and other achievements
•       Foreign Travels
•       Hobbies

Resume vs. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A Curriculum Vitae is a resume for people working in academia.  It is usually longer than a resume.  More important than length, a CV must show your scholarly relevance within a specific discipline. 

Instead of a snapshot of your work/professional history, the CV is a snapshot of your academic identity.

A successful CV must include:

•       Contact information
•       Education (Highest degree first, Titles and/or descriptions of dissertations)
•       Publications
•       Conference Presentations
•       Research Projects
•       Teaching and/or Professional Experience

A CV may be wordier than a resume, with longer descriptions of one's experience.  Stylistically, you don't need to rely on bullet points for avoiding unnecessary verbiage and can use more space to create an image of your academic identity.

Resume/CV Dos and Don'ts

DO

• Check spelling and grammar.
• Double-check your contact information.
• Tailor your objective to the specific job description.  Using a one-size-fits-all objective may not get you the job.
• Use action words to describe your duties and responsibilities.  Show employers what you have accomplished, rather than providing a mundane list of duties.

DON'T

• Rely on your word processing program to catch spelling/grammatical errors.  Proofread or ask someone you trust to read over your resume.
• Send without proofreading.  If you're sending out a lot of resumes and cover letters, make sure that each cover letter is sent to the correct employer.  Even an accidental oversight could cost you the interview and/or job.
• Be too modest.  Include awards and accolades to show that your work is praiseworthy.