Tips on how to Create a Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CVs)
Before applying for jobs, internships, research roles, or graduate programs, it’s important to have either a resume or a curriculum vitae (CV) ready. While both are application documents, they serve different purposes.
What is a Resume?
A resume is a one-page document that highlights your most relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments for a specific opportunity. It shows employers how you’re a strong fit for the role.
- The main goal of a resume is to land an interview, highlighting relevant, targeted keywords from the job description
- Resumes are commonly used for internships, jobs, and roles in business and industry.
- Employers expect resumes to be clear, concise, and tailored to each position.
- Keep your resume at 1 page
- List items in reverse chronological order, or most recent experiences listed first
- Proofread and stay consistent
- Use easy to read fonts and 10–12-point size
- Include the same contact heading that is on your cover letter
- Avoid resume generators, consider a Word or Google document to easily make edits
- Create clear and organized sections:
- Education
- Skills
- Relevant Experience
- Relevant Research
- Leadership
- Do not include pictures, shaded boxes, or icons
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- Use bullet point statements, starting your sentence with an action verb
- Show what you did, how you did it, and the result, Using the formula: Action verb + Task + Result or Goal Accomplished
- Use numbers when you can:
- Number of people → Collaborated with a team of 5 peers
- Frequency → Organized weekly club meetings
- Time → Balanced 15+ hours of practice weekly, while maintaining a full academic courseload
- Achievement → Awarded $1,500 in Copeland Funding
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What Is a Curriculum Vitae (CV)?
A CV is a longer, more detailed document typically used for academic, research, or grant-related opportunities.
- CVs are common when applying for research positions, graduate school, academic roles, or fellowships.
- They include detailed information such as research experience, publications, presentations, and academic achievements.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that introduces you to an employer and explains why you’re interested in the position and why you’re a strong fit beyond what’s listed on your resume. You should answer two questions:
- Why do you want to work at the organization?
- Research the organization and explain how your interests align to its work and mission.
- Why should they hire you?
- Explain how your skills match the job, using specific examples.
Tailor each letter to the job and organization and focus on the skills you’ve gained through classes, work, or activities. Below is an example on how to structure your cover letter.
Introduction Paragraph
Use this paragraph to introduce yourself and set up the rest of your letter.
Ask yourself:
- What excites me about this opportunity or company?
- Do I have any connection to the organization (a referral, alumni network, past interaction)?
- What 2–4 skills or strengths do I want the employer to remember most about me?
End this paragraph by previewing the key skills you’ll explain in more detail next.
Body Paragraphs:
This is where you show you’re a strong fit for the role.
Ask yourself:
- What specific examples show these skills in action?
- How does my past experience connect directly to this role or organization?
- How can I add value to this position or team?
Focus on short examples and explanations. So not simply list skills.
Closing:
End with appreciation and a polite call to action, such as expressing interest in discussing your qualifications further.
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