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  • 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.