Your First Resume

When should you have your first resume? Ideally, as you walk onto your college campus. Your first job fair may be within the first month or so of arriving on campus. Being prepared with that resume will help in alleviating some of the stress in the first few weeks.

There are many examples of resumes online. Feel free to choose one which you like. Not too fancy or complicated. When you get to your campus, take your resume to the career center and get personal feedback on what works best for your field of study.

Here are a few Do’s …

• Do be concise. Resumes may get only a quick 30 second scan!
• Do show results. Demonstrate what accomplishments you have, even before any job duties.
• Tailor your resume to the job you want. I have a complete resume with every accomplishment, publication and job I’ve held in 30 years. This is my ‘master’ resume. I will then pull out specific items when applying to a job.
• Carefully proofread and edit.
• Keep your resume up to date.

Don’ts …

• Don’t focus too much on fancy graphics. Get to the point. You want the employer to focus on your qualifications.
• Don’t print your resume on pink paper (or any color). Use white or cream as they are more professional.