Get Started
- Create an inventory of your accomplishments. Include education, volunteer experience, jobs, projects, sports, organizational activities, computer skills, special training, and leadership positions.
- Analyze the job description. Address the specific qualifications desired. Identify key words and necessary skills.
Format
- Start with a blank document. Do not use resume templates included in word processing software or online.
- Limit to one page. Set margins at .75” or 1.0” all around. Set paragraph spacing to single space.
- Use font size 11 pt or 12 pt. Use one, easy-to-read font such as Times New Roman, Garamond, or Calibri.
- Avoid graphics, color blocks, and multiple fonts. Make sure your resume can be easily scanned.
- Include your name, address, phone, and professional email address at the top of the page. Align at left or center.
- Ensure section headings are clearly identifiable, emphasized (bold and/or all caps), and in alignment on the page
Objective or Summary
- Optional. Do not include both an objective and a summary section.
- Objective: clearly state your career expectations (job title or job type) and your ability to contribute to the employer.
- Summary: list 3-5 statements which draw attention to your key qualifications and accomplishments. Include specific computer proficiencies and language skills.
Education
- Include school name, location (city, state), full degree title, and graduation date or expected graduation date.
- List most recent degree first. Include the degree you are currently pursuing at Mississippi College.
- Do not include high school information after your freshman year.
- Include GPA if 3.0 or above
Experience
- Include company name, location (city, state), job title, dates employed (month year), and 3-5 bulleted action statements.
- List in reverse chronological order (most recent experience first).
- Begin each description with an action verb. Describe past experiences in past tense.
- Write in telegraphic style, not full sentences. Do not use “I,” “me,” or “my.”
- Use clear and concise phrases, not vague passive descriptions.
- Focus on specific and quantifiable results of your work, significant achievements, and recognitions received.
Honors/Activities
- List awards and academic honors received from an employer, organization, or school. Include date(s) received.
- List extracurricular activities and volunteer work during the last four years. Include title (if any) and dates.
- Include leadership positions held in student government, social organizations, academic clubs, and other activities
Make It Happen
- Double check for grammar and spelling errors. Review for consistency.
- Make sure there are no misrepresentations and you have authored an authentic resume.
- Schedule an appointment with a Career Services professional for review or additional assistance.
- Print on high quality resume paper. Or, save as a .pdf if submitting electronically.
