Frequently Asked Questions

How do I format my resume?

Preferred font size is 10-12 point. Your name should appear larger (14-16 point).
3 main sections!! Education, Experience, Activities
One page is preferred by employers for undergraduate students.
Use standard, easy-to-read fonts: Helvetica, Times, Palantino.
Make effective use of spacing, margins, and bolding.
Emphasize points with bullets, UPPER CASE, bold, italics, and underlining.

What is the difference between a resume and a curriculum vitae (CV)?

The most noticeable difference between a CV and a resume is the length. A CV is meant to provide a detailed, usually chronologically ordered, list of all of your achievements both academically and professionally. Unlike a resume, the CV doesn’t change with each position in order to only include most relevant experiences, but instead it remains static until you add another achievement or experience. Furthermore, the CV is most often used in academia and internationally. Academically, it includes research, publications, scholarly presentations, affiliations with professional associations, awards, etc. and internationally, it might also include some personal data such as date of birth, country of origin, and even a headshot picture depending on the country.

Should I include high school experience?

In general, you should focus on your college experiences. However, high school information may be included for Freshmen or Sophomores who might not have a lot of college activities or work experiences yet. Consider listing your high school if you are tapping into an alumnus from that high school or job searching in your hometown area.

I do not have much work experience because I’ve been so busy with my involvement on-campus!

Great! These activities count! Recruiters tell us they look favorably on extra-curricular experiences, particularly leadership experiences. Your resume should focus on your accomplishments and responsibilities in your club or organization. Highlight your contribution and transferable skills. Activities might include: student government, athletics, residence life, campus ministry, student newspaper, academic or cultural clubs, or a club or tribe.

How do I list shadowing or study abroad experience on my resume?

Shadowing:

Job shadowing or externship is added just like any other experience. You must include the company name, position, and inclusive dates. Under these, you can add descriptions on what was learned or what your duties were. If it's not as relevant, then it is okay to omit descriptions from it in the resume.

Study Abroad:

There are a few different ways for you to add study abroad experience. You can add it to your resume education section or put study abroad in the resume experience section if you both worked and studied. Include study abroad in your resume skills section to show off the skills you acquired in an international environment.

Quick Tips

Make good use of blank space. It can help isolate and highlight an important point you wish to emphasize.
Customize the format to highlight your strengths.
Do not abbreviate with names of clubs or organizations.
Avoid using slang or trite expressions.