Resumes

Length: One page is most common. As you move throughout your career, additional pages can be used.

Font: Use plain font (Arial or Times New Roman), Size 10-12.◦ Headings emphasized by larger font◦ Bullets, Bolding, Underlining can be used to make

the document easier to read. Margins: 1 inch margins recommended.

Appearance of Resume

Name and Contact Information◦ Address, Phone, E-mail◦ It is common to bold and have a slightly larger

font.

What to include: Heading

The type of position you are seeking and field/industry of interest.◦ Can also include the skills you want to utilize

and/or the tasks you want to become involved. Avoid clichés like “A challenging position

offering opportunity for growth and advancement.”

What to include: Objective

List degrees in reverse chronological order with the most recent first.◦ Include expected graduation dates.

Include any other colleges/universities attending including study abroad experiences.◦ Use official school name “The Pennsylvania State

University” Include G.P.A. (if above 3.0) May also want to include related courses or

special projects.

What to Include: Education

Computer Skills, Foreign languages, other skills needed for the job

May include level of proficiency Relevant Certifications Examples:

◦ C++ Programming, Excel, PowerPoint, Minitab, SAS Programming, etc.

◦ List on Eberly College of Science website: http://science.psu.edu/cie/career-resources/resumes/

computer-mathematical-skills-for-resumes

What to Include: Technical Skills

Include employer names, titles, dates, job responsibilities.

Most recent should be first Use past tense action verbs in descriptions

of your accomplishments and responsibilities.◦ List:

http://science.psu.edu/cie/career-resources/resumes/action-verbs-for-resumes

What to Include: Experiences

List relevant activities and leadership positions first.

Add brief details to demonstrate skills and experiences (if applicable)

Honors and Awards (if applicable)

What to Include: Activities

Usually not part of the resume List of references on a separate page

formatted to match the resume when requested from employers

References name, title, and all contact information

Seek prior approval from people you plan to list as references

References (optional)

Most employers spend less than 15 seconds reviewing a resume before making the decision to consider someone for an interview.

More employers are beginning to use resume screening software so be sure to use keywords that are in the job descriptions.

PROOFREAD!

Tips

Eberly College of Science Career and International Education Office

Career Services Drop-In Counseling◦ Bank of America Career Service Center

Resources

For additional information, you can go to the following websites:

http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/career/ http://

science.psu.edu/cie/career-resources/resumes

Sources