Graduate Guide
Career Development CenterWriting a professional CV/Resume takes time and effort and is often an employer's first impression of your credentials, so it is a very critical factor in whether you are selected for an interview. This guide provides "How To" instructions on organizing and formatting your document and includes examples of common sections.
- Tailor each letter to the specific position for which you are applying.
- Research the employer, the position, and the mission/vision of the organization.
Suggested Titles for CV/Resume Sections
Below is a list of common section headings. Sections may be added to highlight your unique experience as you align your strengths, skills, and accomplishments to the needs of your potential employer. Note: These sections are “movable” and can be placed in a different order depending on a person’s professional experience. All of the headings might not be used.
Name
- Phone number, Email
- LinkedIn profile link
Education
- Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, City & State Anticipated Graduation
- Include other schools and universities if applicable
Licensure/Certification
- Include current & expected licenses and certifications and expiration dates if applicable
Clinical Experience (if applicable)
- Positions are listed in reverse chronological order with the most recent first
- Include Facility Name, City & State Month/Year-Month/Year
Relevant Experience
- List healthcare experience that is in addition to the clinical experience from rotations.
Work Experience, Professional Experience, or Experience
- Choose one of these titles when listing additional work experience.
Additional sections headings to include as applicable:
- Research Experience
- Publications
- Presentations
- Leadership Experience
- Extra-curricular Activities (or Campus Involvement)
- Professional Membership
- Volunteer Experience (or Community Involvement)
- Honors/Awards
- Specialized Skills: Include technology/computer, foreign language, and laboratory skills (if not in separate section)
Other Tips
- Save and send your resume to an employer as a PDF in order to retain formatting
- Do not include “I”, “my”, “our”, “their” in the description of your experience
- If you have a multi-page document, you can include a footer with your full name or first initial, last name & page number. Do not include the full address heading. Use a smaller size font.
- Check for spelling and grammar errors
- Use action-driven bullet points to describe your experiences
- Use action verbs to demonstrate results- quantify these results where possible
- Font size: use 11-12 point font and single spacing throughout your document
For more information see the Career Development Center Blackboard How To Guides.