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Creating a Resume

A resume not only represents your education and work history, but also your ability to effectively communicate that information. Employers view it as a sample of the quality of work they might expect from you. Because of this, you should expect to spend a LOT of time writing and re-writing your resume. Learn as much as you can about writing a competitive resume, and get feedback from everyone you know, including staff at the Career Development Center and the Writing Center.

Below is our own resume guide along with a collection of the most valuable resume-related resources that we have identified on the Web. You do not need to read them all, but you should be familiar with the SMCM guide and browse at least a few of the additional links. Within these resources you'll see two typical resume types described: the chronological (traditional) and the functional (skills-based). A functional resume is often the best choice for those with little professional experience because it provides a format for describing transferable skills learned in academic and extra-curricular settings; Students with more experience can benefit from using either style and will have to begin by making that choice. If you need to create a CV or vita, check out the resources on our Grad School page.

And remember...the best way to develop a competitive resume is by ensuring that you have valuable professional experiences to describe. If you sit down to create a resume and find you don't have much to put down, think about how you might go about gaining more experience--either through an internship, temporary employment, volunteer service, or even active involvement on campus.

SMCM Guide to Writing Resumes & Vitas
This 12-page PDF is a great place to start. It includes an overview of resume/vita styles, general guidelines, a worksheet to help you identify and describe your transferable skills, and relevant examples.

How to Write a Masterpiece of a Resume
This extensive resource provided by the Rockport Institute is aimed at established professionals, so some of the guidelines won't apply to you (e.g., education generally comes first for new grads, last for professionals). The real value of this site comes from its explanation of the importance of taking the time to create a standout resume.

Interactive Resume Workshop  
The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) may be familiar to you as it is great source of writing tips and tools. This interactive clickable "workshop" covers development of various sections on the resume. 

National O*Net Occupational Database
Click on "Find Occupations" and then, in the keyword box, search for occupations that interest you (e.g., "editor"). This should bring up a list of related occupations for you to explore. Click on the specific occupations and learn about skills, abilities, and activities common to that occupation. Use these lists to help you reflect on skills from your coursework, volunteer work, and extra-curricular activities that might enhance your resume.

Quint Careers Resume Worksheets 
Starting from scratch? Need a lot of structure? Not sure how to fill your resume? These worksheets are sure to help!

Looking for more information? Try these...

Resume Readiness Quiz Find out if your resume is ready to do the job you need it to do.
Guide to Resume Writing This 17-page guide is similar to our own, but does have additional examples and some additional suggestions about content and formatting. 
Monster.com ResumeArticles Including one with tips for new grads in particular.
About.com Resume Resources Various samples, templates, tips, articles, and links.

Writing Samples
If you are asked to submit a writing sample to an employer, the link above provides good samples and guidelines for doing so.

Job Skills Portfolio
When you are invited for an interview consider supplementing  your resume with a more extensive portfolio (or put it online and add the URL to your resume!).