Graduate Guide

Career Development Center

Writing 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.

Close up of typing on a laptop with resume graphics overlayed.
Resume Bullet Points

Turning Responsibilities into Actions and Results

Use action words in bullet points on your resume to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments. They convey a strong, positive tone and help emphasize your initiative and strengths.
Close up of typing on a laptop with resume graphics overlayed.