RESUME TIPS FOR FRESHMEN What is a resume? A resume is a snapshot of who you are. It is a concise, well-crafted document that reveals the things you
RESUME TIPS FOR FRESHMEN What is a resume?
A resume is a snapshot of who you are. It is a concise, well-crafted document that reveals the things you have done over time, including skills attained and knowledge gained from jobs and personal experiences. A resume is personal, written communication to prospective employers that clearly demonstrates your ability to produce valuable results in their area of need. A resume should generate interest in your qualifications and consequently desire to meet you.
But I’m only a freshman, do I really need a resume? If you are under the impression that you don’t need a resume until you’re looking for a “real job”, consider this: 1. While many part-time jobs require only completion of an application form, some will require a resume. Even if a resume is not required as part of the application process, having one could give you an advantage! 2. Internships require a resume, and even if your major does not “require” an internship, the general recommendation is to complete an internship after your second and/or third year in college. 3. A resume is a great way to start tracking this information early in your college years. Summarizing your experiences and remember key details such as dates of involvement becomes more difficult with time. 4. Looking for join student organization, or perhaps take on an early leadership role on campus? Although all organizations may not “require” a resume, some may ask for this information. 5. Your first year of college will be over before know it, and soon you will begin the process of looking for a summer job that may require a resume.
Begin with the End in Mind! Employers want to see what you have done while in college. Therefore, don’t wait until you are a senior to gain work experience, join an organization, volunteer, or gain experiences that will look GREAT on a resume. Because freshmen are just getting started in college and don’t have much to list on a resume, it is acceptable for a freshman to have some high school information on the resume while transitioning into their college experience. But as you advance in college, the high school information should be replaced with college information.
Common Mistakes on a Freshman Resume:
Southeast Missouri State University education not listed, or not listed first Degree, major and anticipated graduation date not listed Inclusion of personal information such as birth date Unnecessary employment information listed such as hourly wage, previous supervisor’s name, employer street address and zip code. This information may be needed for a formal application but not on the resume. References listed on the resume itself (References go on a separate page) Overall general lack of information; work experiences not described to bring our transferable skills Use of resume templates Word wrapping to a second page because of large margins and double spacing
Need help? The Office of Career Services has additional resources that can be found online by visiting: http://www.semo.edu/careers/resume_coverletter.htm
or make appointment with the Career Services team and let us help you! Career Services UC206 573.651.2583
[email protected] www.semo.edu/careerservices
