Your resume serves as your introduction to an employer. It is a personal advertisement promoting yourself for a position. The resume can also help create a favorable first impression. It can show the employer your qualifications and bridge the gap between your qualifications and the needs for the position. The ultimate goal of the resume is to create such an impression that an employer will want to set up an interview.

It can be beneficial to include your civic engagement and volunteer experience on your resume. Being engaged in your community shows that you are invested in creating the community and world in which you want to live and the network you build through service work can serve as important references when applying for future professional positions.  Volunteering demonstrates that you value contributing to something larger than yourself, have strong time management skills, that you’re a team player, and that you are proactive in expanding your skill set.  Career Services provides resume advice based on what the majority of employers and career experts say they are expecting on a resume.

It is important to note that there is no right or wrong way to format a resume, it really depends on your personal preference and that of the employer. So don't be surprised if you get conflicting information when it comes to resume writing.

If you would like your cover letter, resume, or both reviewed, please come to Career Services’ Drop-In hours in their office in the Kerr Administration Building in Room B008 (located in the basement) Monday through Thursday from 1 PM – 4 PM.

You can also visit their website for more information about resume support. 

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