The CV is a critical element of the job search.

  • Objective

    It should be a complete summary of your educational and professional experience as it relates to the types of positions for which you will be applying. —Keep in mind, however, that every discipline has specific CV format requirements.

    To find out the appropriate format within your field of study, consult with several faculty members in your academic department.

     
    Before you begin writing your CV , think about what you want to communicate about yourself to potential employers.

    Consider your educational background, your interests and skills, and your aspirations.

    This will assist you in not only identifying organizations and positions of interest, but also in tailoring your CV to specific job leads.
  • Guidelines For Organizing Your CV

    All information on your CV should be relevant to the type(s) of positions to which you will be applying. Depending on your background and experience, several pages may be necessary depict your credentials accurately and completely.

    Generally speaking, CV's are typically 2 pages, 3 pages at most.

    However, some disciplines may require a more detailed CV , which may range from 4-12 pages.

    One thought to keep in mind...Quality Before Quantity!

  • Basic Sections to a CV

    Identification

    Includes your name, address and phone number.

    Some individuals elect to include their e-mail address, office address and phone number as well.

    If you include this, be sure to clearly identify them as such.
    • Personal information, such as age, gender, race and religious affiliation should not be included on your CV
    • Not only is it inappropriate, but, in most cases it is illegal for employers to ask you about this information.

    However, as part of the application process, you may receive a form from the  INSIGHT Into Diversity to be completed, confidentially, and it will not be included in your application materials.

    Education

    Includes degrees completed as well as those in progress.

    Be sure to include the name and location of the institution, major field of study, anticipated graduation date, and dissertation title and an abstract -- in reverse chronological order.
    You may also include academic honors, awards and scholarships in this section.

     

    Professional Experience

    You want to list any experience (paid or unpaid) that relates to the positions to which you will are applying.

    For example, if you're applying for a position that is primarily research focused, you would begin by listing research experience and/or interests.
    Perhaps you would then list any publications and/or presentations.
    This may be work you've completed as a professional in the field or as a graduate assistant or fellow.
    The key question to ask yourself is...Is it relevant? The degree of relevancy will determine where it is located within your CV

    The most important, most relevant information should be positioned towards the beginning of the document.

    On the other hand, if you're applying for a position that is primarily teaching focused, you would begin by listing teaching experience.

    Again, this may be work you've completed as a professional and/or work you've completed as a graduate assistant or teaching fellow.

    Other information to include may be memberships/affiliations, volunteer experience, special/additional training, languages, and perhaps a statement regarding your dossier.

  • Categories Appropriate for the Vita

    Academic Preparation Teaching Overview Academic Service
    Teaching Interests Thesis Academic Training
    Experience Summary Professional Service Academic Interests
    Research Interests Academic Background Experience Highlights
    University Involvement Comprehensive Areas Educational Background
    Research Overview Faculty Leadership Professional Interests
    Dissertation Title Educational Overview Administrative Experience
    Committee Leadership Professional Studies Consulting Experience
    Departmental Leadership Scholarships Professional Competencies
    Degrees Continuing Education Leadership & Activities
    Awards Course Highlights Special Honors Proficiencies
    Academic Accomplishments Foreign Study Professional Experience
    Distinctions Areas of Knowledge Professional Achievements
    Study Abroad Professional Overview Honors and Awards
    Areas of Expertise Career Achievements Teaching Experience
    College Activities Publications Background
    Language Competencies Scholarly Publications Professional Certification
    Dossier Scholarly Works Scholarly Presentations
    Internships Certificates Credentials
    Books Conference Presentations Special Training References
    Articles/Monographs Workshop Presentations Graduate Practica
    Endorsements Recommendations Reviews
    Workshops and Conventions Exhibits/Exhibitions Programs and Workshops
    Arrangements/Scores Conferences Attended Conference Participation
    Conference Leadership Education Research Experience
    Service Educational Interests Dissertation
    Professional Association Fellowships Educational Highlights
    Principal Teachers Related Experience Travel Abroad
    Professional Background Prizes Career Highlights
    Languages Teaching/Research Licensure Placement File
    Professional Papers Conventions Addresses Graduate Fieldwork