DO'S & DON'TS

"Your resume is the first resource you have to make an impression on a recruiter."  (Dupont)

  • 1 page (1-2 pages for graduate students)
  • Professional in appearance
  • White or off-white paper
  • 10-12 pt. font
  • ¾-1" margins
  • Clear, concise, honest, well-organized
  • Prioritize categories (after "Objective" and "Education")
  • Focus on accomplishments, skills, interests
  • Help the reader understand what you have to offer
  • Draw from all parts of your life - academics, work, community, projects, interests
  • Include significant experiences from H.S. (they are not off limits)
  • Convey personal characteristics: energy and enthusiasm, flexibility and adaptability, capacity for teamwork, leadership potential, honesty and integrity
  • Error free – read aloud to check for errors
  • Address your GPA  (Low GPA / no GPA)
  • Have your resume reviewed
  • Upload into ePACK
  • Customize for individual readers (when advantageous)
  • Update each semester
  • Leave the employer guessing what you have to offer
  • Resume templates
  • Attach photos
  • Personal info (date of birth, height, weight)
  • <10 pt. font
  • Poor organization
  • Typos or grammatical errors
  • Use an objective that does not fit the position
  • List every course taken (choose selectively)
  • Underestimate your experiences or activities (paid or unpaid)
  • Assume interests and hobbies don't matter
  • Use personal pronouns – I, my, me
  • Emphasize skills you do not wish to use
  • Pay a resume service (the CDC is free!)