The purpose of a resume is to highlight your skills and experience, and ultimately secure an interview. Most employers look at resumes for 20-30 seconds, so it needs to be visually appealing and grab the reader’s attention. There’s no one way to craft a resume, but you do want to make sure that it accurately describes your talents and abilities in a way that addresses the reader’s needs.

Not sure where to begin? Use our Resume Outline (PDF) to start gathering the information you'll need for your resume.

After you have a draft of your resume, use these guidelines to refine and polish your resume.

• Tips for a standout resume (PDF)
• Action Word List for Resume (PDF)

Looking for inspiration? Check out our sample resumes.

• Resume Samples (PDF)
• First Year Resume Samples

When preparing your resume it makes sense to compile a list of references as well. Although you don’t have to provide a list of references unless a potential employer asks, it is a good idea to have one ready when you go to an interview. Review these tips:

• Reference Lists (PDF)

Curriculum Vitae

You may also need to create a curriculum vitae (CV), especially if you are applying for academic, education, scientific, or research positions.  A CV is also commonly used when applying for scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Not certain how to start or want to perfect it? Stop by the CEO during Drop-In Advising hours or schedule an appointment to meet with a Career Counselor.

• Writing an Effective CV (PDF)
• CV Sample (PDF)

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Disclaimer

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