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Resumes and Cover Letter

Resources

 

Resume

A resume serves as a vital tool in the job search process as it is often the first impression a potential employer has of you. Make sure your resume is well-organized, easy to read, and visually appealing. Use clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting throughout. Generally, try to keep your resume to one or two pages, focusing on the most relevant information for the position for which you are applying. There are several key components you might want to include.

Provide your full name, email address, phones number, and LinkedIn profile or personal website.

Include degrees, diplomas, or certifications, along with the name of the institution and graduation date (can exclude date after five years post-graduation).

If applicable to your professional role, add the title of the certification, authorizing institution, and year earned or expiration date.

List in reverse chronological order, including the job title, company name, locations, and dates of employment. Provide bullet points detailing your key responsibilities and achievements in each role. Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb.

Highlight language, technical, and any industry related skills.

Depending on your background and the job you are applying for, you might include additional sections such as:

  • Awards and Honors
  • Volunteer Experience
  • Projects
  • Professional Affiliations

 

Cover Letter

A cover letter serves as your introduction before they delve into your resume. Overall, it serves as a valuable tool for presenting yourself as a qualified and enthusiastic candidate, making a compelling case for why you are the right fit for the job. Here are some key points highlighting its importance.

Customize your application to the specific job and company to which you are applying. You can address the hiring manager by name and tailor your language to match the company's culture and values.

 

While your resume lists your qualifications, a cover letter provides an opportunity to delve deeper into your relevant experience and skills. You can highlight specific achievements or projects that demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Convey your genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. It is a chance to explain why you are interested in the job opportunity and how your skills align with the company's goals.

If there are gaps in your resume or aspects of your background that may raise questions, a cover letter allows you to address them proactively. You can provide context or explanations that help the employer understand your candidacy more fully.

A strong cover letter can pique the employer's interest and motivate them to take a closer look at your resume. It is often the first step in the hiring process and can significantly impact whether you are selected for an interview.

Job Search

  • Explore job openings directly on the company or organization's official website.
  • Tap into your alumni network for job leads, advice, and informational interviews. 
  • Attend professional networking gatherings to expand your connections and learn about job opportunities. Building relationships with fellow professionals can lead to valuable referrals and insights. (Link to the networking information provided to current students)
  • Keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and engage with your network. LinkedIn can be a useful tool for networking and job hunting.

Resources

Interview Prep

Resources

 

Understand the company's products, services, mission, values, and latest news. This will help you tailor your answers and show your genuine interest.

Stay up-to-date with industry trends, technologies, and best practices. Show that you are knowledgeable about the current state of the field and how you have adapted to changes since graduating.

Prepare answers to common interview questions like "Tell me about yourself," "Why do you want to work here?" and "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" Practice your responses to sound natural and confident.

Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your interest in the role and company. Avoid questions that can be easily answered through basic research.

Dress professionally according to the company's culture. When in doubt, it is better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Plan to arrive or log in to your virtual interview a few minutes early. This shows punctuality and gives you time to compose yourself.

Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake (if in-person) or a confident greeting (if virtual).

Demonstrate how you have grown and advanced in your career since graduation. Highlight promotions, new skills acquired, and any leadership roles you have taken on.

Use specific examples from your experiences to illustrate your skills and accomplishments. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.

Emphasize the experiences you have gained since graduating that are directly applicable to the job you are interviewing for. This could include work experience, further education, or volunteer work.

Draw parallels between your academic experiences and the skills required for the job. Even if your degree is not related to the position, you have transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.

If you have had any gaps in your employment since graduating, be prepared to explain them in a positive and professional manner. Highlight any relevant activities or learning experiences you pursued during that time.

Send a thank-you email or note to your interviewer(s) within 24 hours of the interview. Express gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position.

Graduate School

  • Obtain comprehensive details regarding expenses including tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and travel, as well as any admission prerequisites, program duration, and instructional formats (on-campus, hybrid, or online).
  • Prioritize application deadlines and establish a structured timeline for completing entrance examinations (such as GMAT, GRE, LSAT), securing recommendation letters, and preparing application documents like purpose statements and resumes.
  • Schedule any necessary interviews within the designated time frames.
  • Take note that certain programs may recommend prior work experience, like some nurse practitioner programs, while some careers, such as mental health counseling, mandate graduate education.
  • Explore the possibility of employer assistance with tuition fees by consulting your supervisor or the relevant HR personnel.

Resources

How to Gain Additional Experience

Resources

 

Stay competitive in the job market by updating your skills and knowledge. Consider taking continuing education courses, online certifications, or workshops relevant to your field.

Associations related to your field can provide valuable networking opportunities, access to industry events, and resources for professional development. Look for local or national associations that align with your interests and career goals.

Giving back to your community through volunteering or mentoring can be a rewarding way to gain additional experiences. Offer your expertise to mentor current students or volunteer for projects or initiatives that align with your interests.

Participating in industry conferences, workshops, and seminars may help to stay updated on the latest trends and developments in your field. Look for events that offer opportunities for networking and professional growth.

Pursue leadership roles within professional associations, community organizations, or alumni groups. Leading projects or initiatives can help you develop valuable leadership skills and expand your network.

If you are interested in starting your own business or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, explore resources and support available through your alma mater or local entrepreneurship ecosystem. Consider taking entrepreneurship courses or participating in startup incubator programs.

Maintain an active presence on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Connect with former classmates, colleagues, and industry professionals, and engage in conversations relevant to your field.

Look for opportunities to further your education through advanced degrees, certificate programs, or specialized training courses. Many universities offer discounts or scholarships for alumni seeking continuing education.

Stay informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and changes in your field. Be proactive in adapting to new challenges and opportunities.