Résumé
Guide
Telling Your Story, Résumé Certification,
and Industry-Targeted Résumé Samples
2 | Colgate University Career Services
Anita A. Job
13 Oak Drive | Hamilton, NY 13346 | ajob@colgate.edu | 555-555-5555
EDUCATION
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY May 20xx
Bachelor of Arts
Major: Environmental Geography; Minor: Psychology
• GPA: 3.41/4.00
• Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence Fall 20xx–Spring 20xx
• Senior Thesis: Environmental Policy Impact on Natural Forest Preservation Fall 20xx
in Ghana
• Relevant Coursework: Social Science Research Methods, Geographic
Information Systems, U.S. Environmental Politics, Applied Math, Social Sciences
Colgate Environmental Study Group Fall 20xx
University of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
• Engaged in interdisciplinary academic exploration of environmental studies within a
global context while immersed in a foreign culture
EXPERIENCE
Company Name, Location (City, State)
Summer 20xx–Present
Social Media Intern
• Develop social media campaign to focus attention on new company project
• Create daily Facebook and Twitter posts via Hootsuite to market new products
and promote the company brand
• Achieved 100,000 Facebook “Likes” in 1 hour upon product launch and increased
Twitter following by 15% in 4 weeks
Telling your story
A résumé is a marketing tool that allows
you to highlight your experiences, skills,
and knowledge to attract positive
attention from potential employers or networking
contacts. It gives you the opportunity to share your
desired narrative in a way that relates to the mission
of an organization or the scope of the work you
are looking to do. A résumé should introduce you
and tell your story through your experiences and
opportunities.
When will you need
a résumé?
• When applying to Colgate Premier
(Colgate’s formal recruiting) positions and other
jobs or internships on Handshake
• When networking online and in person
• When attending career and internship fairs
• In some cases, when applying to graduate and
professional school
APPLYING
STORYTELLING
Maintain a margin around your
document, but use the full width of
the page for your content.
Keep your name and this
contact information at the
top of your résumé. Choose
home and/or school address.
Experiential dates are
consistently written in
season, year OR month, year.
Include
your
overall
or major
GPA if it’s
>3.0
Section headers reflect their
content. For undergraduate
students, the Education section
follows contact information.
Starting points for all résumés
The example below highlights required components for résumés and gives tips to organize your
document. There is no one “right” way to compose a résumé. Below are some ways to help you get
started telling your story.
Begin each bullet with
a strong action verb.
Bullets aren’t written in
full sentences; delete
extra words and personal
pronouns.
Each entry includes the
employer or organization,
location (city, state/
country), position title
(if held), and dates of
involvement. Be consistent
in how you lay out each
entry on the page.
Include details of major
accomplishments and core
responsibilities. Quantify your
impact whenever possible.
Use present tense for
ongoing experiences;
past experiences will be
described in past tense.
Résumé Guide | 3
Language: Spanish (fluent)
Technology: Basic HTML, Java (intermediate), Adobe Photoshop (advanced), InDesign (beginner)
Science Equipment & Techniques: Scanning Electron Microscopy, Fluorescence Microscopy
Certification: CPR (valid through April 20XX)
Including various experiences
Showcase your strong candidacy by illustrating the skills and nonacademic qualifications you have
developed through paid and unpaid experiences that you want to convey to potential employers.
Consider including:
Writing bullet points to support your story
For each experience, highlight your major responsibilities and accomplishments by creating descriptive
bullets that support your narrative through strong action-oriented verbs and answer the following three
questions (color-coded example provided):
What did you do?
What tasks or projects did you complete? Begin
each bullet with a strong action verb (see page 15
for action verb cheat sheet).
How did you do it?
Include details that will help the reader develop
a mental picture of your work. Include contextual
information such as numbers, dollar amounts,
software programs used, populations you worked
with, techniques used, etc.
Why was it important?
Consider the impact your work had on your
employer/organization, yourself, or others involved.
This can include results, learning outcomes, ways in
which your work facilitated a process/decision, or
the larger goal you were working toward.
Showcasing your skills
• Create a list of your relevant “hard skills”:
foreign languages, software programs, social
media, research tools (SPSS, etc.), or laboratory
techniques. These are skills that can be
measured.
• Include your level of proficiency [e.g., “Spanish
(conversational)”; “Java (advanced)”; “Bloomberg
Terminal Skills (intermediate)”].
• Avoid listing “soft skills” (e.g., team player,
organized, hard worker, great communicator).
Rather, illustrate them within strong examples
in the bulleted descriptions you use to highlight
your experiences.
• Strategize the placement of the skills section
based on how critical the skills are to the position
you seek.
Annual Fund Student Caller, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY Spring 20xx
• Cold-called 500 alumni to yield $5,000 that will support university priorities
• Reached phone-a-thon goal of $660,000 alongside team of student callers by calling 5,407 donors in 24 hours
• Facilitated donor stewardship by utilizing Salesforce to record all alumni interactions and donations
• Jobs
• Internships
• Community service
• Activities, clubs, and
organizations
• Academic or independent
research experiences
• Shadowing experiences
• Bootcamps and workshops
• Conferences
• Certifications or credential-
awarding courses
4 | Colgate University Career Services
Certified and targeted résumés
What does “certified” mean?
A certified résumé is one that’s been reviewed and
approved by one of Colgate’s professional career
advisers or peer career advisers. Career Services
“certifies” a résumé when it meets professional
standards for résumé writing, as outlined in
the résumé rubric (pages 6–7). We recommend
all students have their résumés certified each
academic year to meet the standards that
exmployers expect.
Please call the office at 315-228-7380 to schedule
an advising appointment. To expedite the
certification process, you should self-critique your
résumé using the rubric on pages 6–7.
Why should I get my résumé certified?
Having a résumé certified annually will help you
understand how to craft a document that is relevant
to the employer among a competitive pool of
applicants. It also grants you eligibility to submit
applications through Handshake for Colgate Premier
(formal recruiting) internships and jobs as well as
Summer Funding.
NOTE: Your résumé must be certified for the current
academic year to be eligible to apply for Colgate
Premier opportunities on Handshake.
When will my résumé be certified?
When the document scores a rating of “excellent”
or “acceptable with minor corrections” in each
category on the rubric (pages 6–7), it is certified.
Per employers’ expectations, the résumés of juniors
and seniors must be targeted to be certified. See
criteria under “targeting” in the rubric for specific
goals of a targeted résumé, as well as examples on
pages 8–14.
What does “targeted” mean?
As you begin your internship or job search, your
application materials should be tailored to and
reflective of the industry, employer, and position you
are seeking. Customizing to the industry builds your
credibility and demonstrates the strength of your
candidacy by speaking to what is most important to
the employer. Our advisers can help you develop a
strategy to target your documents even if you lack
previous experience in that field. See examples on
pages 8–14. Employers will expect a more targeted
version of your résumé as you progress through
Colgate.
Once certified, I am done tweaking my résumé,
right?
Not yet. Your résumé will be updated continually
as your experiences and academics evolve. You
will want to continue to enhance, target, and
strategically position your experiences. Even after
your résumé is certified, you can meet with our
advisers for additional feedback on future edits, but
you are not required to have it critiqued again until
the next academic year.
Can I have different versions of a targeted or
certified résumé?
Yes. You should have different targeted résumés for
different unique opportunities. However, once you
have achieved certification with one, you are not
required to have all other résumés certified by an
adviser until the next academic year.
How to reach an adviser
The staff at Career Services is here to help you. You can easily schedule an advising appointment
by calling our office at 315-228-7380, visiting the front desk at Benton Hall, or using our online form:
colgate.edu/ccsadvising.
Résumé Guide | 5
Franky First-Year
13 Oak Drive | Hamilton, NY 13346 | ffirstyear@colgate.edu | 315-123-4567
EDUCATION & HONORS
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY May 20xx
Bachelor of Arts
• Intended Major: Biology; Intended Minor: Sociology
The Latin School of Chicago, Chicago, IL
June 20xx
• Graduated with honors
• Daniel Murphy Scholarship, awarded for academic merit
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Student Assistant Fall 20xx–Present
Keck Resource Center, Colgate University
• Identify and determine solutions for Mac, PC, scanner, and printer problems through in-
person, telephone, or email consultations to ensure functionality for campus users
• Wrote detailed troubleshooting procedures manual for student staff to increase overall
efficiency
• Deliver exceptional customer service to students, faculty, staff, and guests under time
pressure to resolve technical issues
Daniel Murphy Program Mentor Summers 20xx–20xx
Lake Forest College, Lake Forest, IL
• Developed and executed an academic internship program with 4 colleagues and senior staff
members to increase the grades of 25 disadvantaged high school students
• Mentored, tutored, and advised 6 students in the college application process to increase the
strength of materials
• Facilitated the payroll process by keeping careful records of students’ work hours
ACTIVITIES
Event Coordinator Fall 20xx–Spring 20xx
Latin American Student Organization, Colgate University
• Manage and maintain an annual budget of $2,000 to allocate funding for special events
• Organize community-wide events by vetting vendors and coordinating 25–50 volunteers
• Encourage cross-cultural understanding by participating in 2 community-wide discussions
about Latino culture at Colgate
Disc Jockey Fall 20xx–Spring 20xx
WRCU 90.1 Hamilton, Colgate University
• Produce and air public service announcements weekly to inform the audience about
important initiatives and events in the local community
• Develop new procedures in collaboration with station managers and 5 other disc jockeys to
increase station effectiveness and organization
Captain Summer 20xx
Intramural Soccer Team, The Latin School of Chicago
• Supported and motivated 15 players on and off the field and earned top individual scoring
record for season
SKILLS & CERTIFICATIONS
Computer: Excel, PowerPoint, Photoshop, Prezi, and Access (intermediate proficiency)
Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter
Languages: Spanish (conversational)
Certifications: CPR (expires April 20xx)
General résumé
This simplified version is a great starter document and most appropriate for students unsure of their
professional interests. As you build experiences and clarify your interests, your résumé should become
targeted to a specific industry and position.
Within each section,
list your experiences in
reverse chronological
order or by the highest
relevance to your
audience.
Your high school may be
listed on your résumé
as an underclassman or
beyond if you attended
a school that employers
may recognize.
If you have not yet
declared a major/minor,
you may list an intended
major or minor.
If multiple positions
end at the same time,
prioritize based on the
most impressive or
relevant experience.
Categorize your skills
section and qualify your
level of proficiency where
possible.
Your name should be the
largest font size on the page.
You can name the season
to capture seasonal work
over multiple years.
Use descriptive section
headers to group relevant
content (e.g., Volunteer
Experience, Colgate
Activities, or Leadership
Experience).
6 | Colgate University Career Services
Criteria Excellent
Acceptable with
minor corrections Needs revisions
Overall style/
appearance
Goal: To ensure your
document is easily read and
appears polished.
• Cleanly fills one page without
overcrowding
• Order of information presented
is consistent within each
section
• Information is only presented
once
• Centered on page with
acceptable margins
• Font is sized appropriately (no
smaller than 10 pt) and readable
• Consistency in formatting (use
of bold, italics, etc.)
• Page appears clean but
crowded, but does not exceed
one page
• Order of information presented
is consistent within each section
• Information is only presented
once
• Centered on page with
acceptable margins
• Font is sized appropriately (no
smaller than 10 pt) and readable
• No more than three errors in
formatting consistency (bold,
italics, spacing, etc.)
• Document exceeds one page or
does not fill the majority of one
page
• Document appears cluttered
• Inconsistency in the order of
information within one or more
sections
• The same information is
presented more than once
• Document is not centered
• Margins are not appropriate
• Font size is too small/too big or
not consistent; font is not easily
read
• Inconsistency in formatting (use
of bold, italics, etc.)
Spelling, grammar,
and punctuation
Goal: To ensure résumé is
polished and demonstrates
an attention to detail.
• Résumé has no errors —
spelling and grammar are
correct, punctuation and
spacing are consistent
• Résumé contains one to two
minor errors (spelling, grammar,
punctuation)
• Résumé has a pattern of a single
error (e.g., some bullets have
periods, some do not)
• Résumé contains three or more
individual errors
• Résumé has a pattern of two or
more errors
Contact information
Goal: To ensure an employer
can easily contact you.
• Includes name, street address
(optional), email, phone
• Name is largest and most
prominent information in section
• Email address used is
professional
• If included, LinkedIn profile/
portfolio has customized URL
• Includes name, street address
(optional), email, phone
• Name is not most prominent
information in section
• Email address is not professional
• Missing one of the following:
name, email, phone number
• Email address used is
unprofessional/inappropriate
• The included LinkedIn profile/
portfolio does not have
customized URL
Education
Goal: To convey academic
qualifications and training.
• Degree is spelled out
• Major/minors (if declared) and
graduation month/year are
indicated
• Each institution attended
includes name, location, dates
• For undergraduates: Colgate
is listed first, then other
institutions in order of relevance
• If listed, GPA is in correct format
(maintain number of decimal
places: e.g., 3.05/4.00 or 3.0/4.0)
• If GPA other than cumulative is
listed, it’s identified (e.g., major
GPA)
• Relevant honors and
scholarships listed and include
dates and description if not
indicated in the title (may be in
separate section)
* Study abroad should be
included, if applicable
• Degree is abbreviated (BA)
• Major/minors (if declared) and
graduation month/year are
indicated
• Each institution attended
includes name, location, dates
• For undergraduates: Colgate
is listed first, then other
institutions in order of relevance
• Listed GPA is in correct format
• Relevant honors and
scholarships listed and dated,
but lack context
• Incorrect degree listed (not
Bachelor of Arts)
• Declared major/minor not
indicated
• Graduation date not listed
(month, year)
• Each institution attended does
not include name, location,
dates
• Colgate is listed after another
institution
• Irrelevant/outdated high school
information listed
• The listed GPA is not in correct
format
• GPA is rounded up
Career Services résumé rubric
For a résumé to be “certified” by Career Services, it must score the “excellent” or “acceptable with minor
corrections” categories for each section. Career advisers and peer career advisers are there to help you learn
how to reach the level of a certified résumé.
Résumé Guide | 7
Experience
Goal: To contextualize your
skills and nonacademic
qualifications in a concise
manner, showing their
relevance to your employer.
• Each entry lists organization
name, dates, position title (if
needed), and location
• Bullets begin with strong action
verbs
• All verbs reflect the correct verb
tense
• Bullets are concise, direct
• Bullets indicate one’s impact or
contribution to the organization
with specificity
• Bullets are not written in
complete sentences and
appropriately omit extra words
(e.g., articles, verbose phrases);
contain no personal pronouns
• Bullets are listed in order
of importance within an
experience
• Results are quantified when
appropriate
• The most significant entries
include at least one bullet point
• One to two entries omit(s)
organization name, dates,
position title (if needed), or
location
• Résumé has a pattern of a single
error (e.g., no position titles)
• Action verbs could be stronger
• One to two individual errors in
verb tense
• Bullets could be more concise,
direct
• Bullets indicate one’s impact
on the organization — could
include more specificity
• Bullets are written in complete
sentences
• Bullets are listed in order of
importance within an experience
• Results are quantified when
appropriate
• The most significant entries
include at least one bullet point
• Three or more entries do not
include organization name,
dates, position title (if needed),
or location
• Bullets begin with weak action
verbs
• Multiple verb tenses are
inconsistent with dates
• Bullets are wordy, vague, or do
not indicate one’s impact
• Bullets contain personal
pronouns
• Bullets are not listed in order
of importance within an
experience
• Results are not quantified when
appropriate
• Bullets are not included on
significant entries
• Irrelevant/outdated information
listed (e.g., high school) that
would not be discussed in an
interview
Skills/interests/
language/
certifications sections
(optional)
Goal: To include skills or
information that does not
appear elsewhere on the
résumé and is relevant.
• Listings are concise and specific
• Level of proficiency is
indicated for skill-based
entries (language, laboratory,
technology)
• Listings are concise and specific
• Level of proficiency is indicated
for skill-based entries (language,
laboratory, technology)
• Personal qualities are listed
• Listings are wordy or vague
• No level of proficiency
indicated for skills-based
entries (language, laboratory,
technology)
Organization of sections
Goal: To group relevant
information together to draw
attention to experiences
that resonate with your
target employer; to increase
readability.
• Section headers accurately
reflect content
• Adequate content exists within
a section to substantiate the
heading
• Section headers reflect content
• Content of a section is not best
placement of information (see
comments)
• No use of sections or one
“Experience” section lists all
entries
• Too many sections and/or not
enough content to warrant a
section
• Section titles do not reflect
content
To achieve certification, résumés of juniors and seniors must also meet the following criteria
Targeting
Goal: To ensure your
strengths are strategically
highlighted to your specific
audience.
• Section headers are relevant to
the targeted audience
• Uses language represented in
the job description, employer’s
materials, or that is industry-
specific
• The most relevant information
is grouped and appears on the
first half of the document
• Most relevant bullets appear
first under each entry
• Listed coursework (optional) is
tailored to the targeted field
• The format/structure of the
document is reflective of
acceptable industry standards
and trends
• In formatting entries, the most
relevant/strategic information
among title and organization
name is emphasized by
positioning and style (bold, etc.)
• Audience is addressed, but more
focus is required
• Language could be more
relevant to the reader (section
titles, descriptions)
• The most relevant information is
grouped but does not appear on
the first half of the document
• The most relevant information
could be further emphasized by
formatting (bold, italics, etc.)
• Listed coursework (optional) is
tailored to the targeted field
• Résumé does not show
evidence of being targeted to a
specific purpose. (NOTE: This
rating is assigned to all general
résumés)
• Section titles and descriptions
do not support targeted field
• The most relevant information is
not grouped
• The most relevant information
does not appear on the first half
of the document
• The most relevant information
is not emphasized by formatting
(bold, italics, etc.)
• The included coursework is not
tailored to the targeted field
8 | Colgate University Career Services
Natalie Nonprofit
13 Oak Drive | Box B235 | Hamilton, NY 13346 | [email protected] | 315-123-4567
EDUCATION & HONORS
Colgate University, Bachelor of Arts, Hamilton, NY May 20xx
• Major: Peace and Conflict Studies
• Major GPA 3.63/4.00; Cumulative GPA: 3.41/4.00
• Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence (all semesters)
• Advanced Coursework: Contemporary Political Philosophy; Politics of Poverty; International
Political Economy; Power, Racism, and Privilege; Politics of Race and Ethnicity
Los Angeles High School for the Arts, Los Angeles, CA June 20xx
• Graduated with honors
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE
Field Intern, Donnelly for Senate, Indianapolis, IN Summer 20xx
• Engaged voters by communicating candidate’s policy positions in person during community
forums, through neighborhood canvassing events, and by phone through cold-calling more
than 500 constituents
• Gained exposure to major political campaign operations at headquarters by contributing
communication ideas, observing senior staff meetings, and shadowing campaign manager
Campaign Volunteer, Washington for Mayor, Los Angeles, CA Summer 20xx
• Recruited new volunteers through local calling campaign to increase civic engagement and
promote voter turnout
NONPROFIT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Council for International Education Exchange, Hanoi, Vietnam Spring 20xx
• Expanded social and political awareness by learning from grassroots movements, living with
host families, meeting with NGOs, corporations, and government agencies while focused on
issues such as dams, mining, slums, HIV/AIDS, and agriculture policy
• Developed report for board of directors on topics affecting local community by outlining
critical resource shortages due to recent climate change activity
Finding Money for Social Change Grant-Writing Course, Colgate University Spring 20xx
• Gained overview of foundations, nonprofits, and grant funding and solicited proposals for grant
applications from local organizations during a nine-week, noncredit class
SERVICE & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Farm Volunteer, Community Supported Agriculture, Hamilton, NY Fall 20xx–Present
• Connect farming with issues of food insecurity, social justice, and local economies by
participating in community discussion
• Plant seasonal crops and learn inner workings of community-supported organic farm by
volunteering 5 hours/week
Volunteer Relief Work, Colgate Alternative Break Trip, Cap-Haïtien, Haiti Spring 20xx
• Collaborated on a team of 10 students to clean up post-flood debris to make neighborhoods
safer for residents
Youth Mentor, Sidekicks, Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Build and maintain a multiyear relationship with a local child to promote self-esteem and
positive attitudes toward education
• Foster campus-town relationships through community involvement and positive relationships
Benefits Coordinator, Student Global AIDS Campaign, Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Planned and executed semiformal benefit event that raised more than $1,000 for HIV/AIDS
charities
SKILLS & INTERESTS
• Language: Spanish (proficient reading and writing), Vietnamese (conversational)
• Technical: Mindcoast Grantwave, Photoshop, InDesign (intermediate proficiency in all)
• Social Media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest
• Travel: Extensive travel through China, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam
Targeted nonprofit résumé
Listing skills beyond
those that are required
or desired may give
you an edge above
other applicants.
Coursework can demonstrate
knowledge in relevant areas,
especially where you have yet
to gain experience.
Prioritize prominent
experiences that directly
apply to the position
description.
Create targeted sections to
group experiences that are
relevant to the position and
increase readability.
Highlight relevant
specialized training in
a separate heading.
Résumé Guide | 9
Tanya Tech
315-228-XXXX | Email@gmail.com | personalwebsite.com | GitHub & LinkedIn: @name98 | Hamilton, NY
EDUCATION
Colgate University | Hamilton, New York May 20xx
• Bachelor of Arts, Double Major: Computer Science & Economics
• Computer Science GPA: 3.81/4.00 | Cumulative GPA: 3.74/4.00
• Relevant Coursework: Data Structures, Algorithms, Operating Systems, Computer
Architecture, Discrete Structures, Theory of Computing, Software Engineering,
Human-Computer Interaction
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Strong: Java, Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, SQL, PostgreSQL, HTML, CSS, VSCode
Experienced: Kotlin, Swift, C, AWS Resources, Angular, NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING & COMPUTING
Tech Company | Software Engineering Intern, Backend | Seattle, WA Summer 20xx
• Developed and load-tested a reverse-geocoding service leveraging Redis data store to
increase precision by alleviating edge cases
• Developed RESTful APIs, wrote unit tests, added performance metrics, and integrated AWS
technologies to create upcoming features
• Architected SQL queries to aggregate data across multiple AWS RDS PostgreSQL tables and
implemented cron jobs to automatically schedule specific deletion queries
• Updated schemas and added new columns to production AWS RDS PostgreSQL tables and
updated API models to reflect changes in use cases
Fintech Company | Intern | New York, NY Summer 20xx
• Wrote JUnit test cases for Struts web application designed to allow financial services clients
to track employee completion of internal continuing education programs
Mini Search Engine Project - Python | Intro to Computing | Colgate University Fall 20xx
• Wrote functions for traversing set of connected webpages and built Python data structures
that model words found on the pages and connectivity structure of the pages
• Implemented functions to accept search queries and output results ordered by relevance
ADDITIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE
Department of Computer Science | Teaching Assistant | Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Coach 20–30 students/semester through process of debugging code and answer questions
regarding Python, computer architecture, and computer systems to increase student
confidence and proficiency
Information Technology Services | Service Desk Consultant | Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Troubleshoot software downloads, connectivity issues, printer driver installs, and other
technical difficulties to ensure faculty, staff, and students can take full advantage of ITS
resources provided by the university
NCAA DIVISION I ATHLETICS
Varsity Women’s Soccer | Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Devote more than 20 hours per week to practice, competition, travel, conditioning, and
individual training in nationally ranked program; maintain strenuous training program
off-season
• Optimize individual performance by analyzing practice films weekly and incorporating
coach’s feedback, leading to improved performance during competition
• Create a positive team dynamic by providing athletic and academic mentorship to 5 younger
teammates
• Visit local elementary classroom monthly to model value of academic persistence and
physical fitness
Targeted tech résumé
List the most recent
entry first.
Reference course
projects as relevant
professional
experience and use
industry language.
Frame your athletic
experiences
by focusing on
transferable skills
gained, not just the
sport.
List major GPA when
stronger than overall
GPA and above 3.0.
Highlight programming
languages, software
platforms, and other
relevant skills that
are essential to the
position.
10 | Colgate University Career Services
Fiona Finance
315-228-XXXX • ffinance@colgate.edu • www.linkedin.com/in/ffinance
EDUCATION & TECHNICAL TRAINING
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY
May 20xx
Bachelor of Arts GPA: 3.75/4.00
• Major/Minor: Economics/Psychology
• Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence (all semesters)
• Alumni Memorial Scholar — awarded to top 200 applicants in class
Wall Street Prep, Remote Summer 20xx
• Completed self-directed intensive Advanced Excel focused on valuation and financial
modeling
• Independently constructed models accounting for discounted cash flow, public
comparables, leveraged buyouts, and mergers and acquisitions
Colgate University Extended Study, Dhaka, Bangladesh Winter 20xx
• Completed 3-week research study examining NGO’s role in alleviating poverty in a
developing nation
• Conducted SWOT analysis of NGO’s impact through case studies and site visits with
local agencies
BUSINESS & FINANCE EXPERIENCE
Federal Corporation, Consumer Finance Research Intern, Washington, D.C. Summer 20xx
• Reviewed 5 years’ worth of pricing data and used Excel for statistical analysis to detect price
disparities between banks/financial institutions
• Compiled economic data from Bloomberg and monitored trends within consumer groups to
analyze risk factors facing banks
• Conducted research for unbanked households to examine frequency of foreclosures and
reverse mortgages, growth potential, and factors producing inadequate retirement income
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, Tax Adviser, Colgate University Spring 20xx–Present
• File federal and state tax returns on behalf of 15 low-income residents resulting in more than
$20,000 returned revenues annually
• Maintain and engage in ongoing training to monitor changing tax credits to maximize returns
for clients
• Completed IRS training program and passed IRS tax preparer test in order to qualify to file
returns on behalf of clients
ACTIVITIES & LEADERSHIP
Budget Allocations Committee, Board Member, Colgate University Spring 20xx–Present
• Collaborate through weekly meetings with 8 fellow board members during weekly meetings
to discuss allocation of $700,000 in student initiative funding
• Review proposals from up to 125 student organizations by assessing fiscal responsibility and
potential value of projects to campus life
Delta Delta Delta Sorority, Recruitment Chair, Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Yielded $40,000 in donations for St. Jude’s Hospital by pitching proposals to local
businesses with 5 chapter members
• Coordinate receptions by reserving event space/catering and managing RSVPs for potential
and current members to highlight sorority’s philanthropic initiatives and build community
SKILLS & INTERESTS
Technology: Proficient with Capital IQ, Bloomberg, Excel, Taxwise, and PowerPoint
Interests: Personal investing — realized 20% gain in portfolio since 20xx
Language: Spanish (conversational)
Targeted finance résumé
Include LinkedIn
address after using
Career Services’
LinkedIn Guide to
complete a profile.
Include academic and
nonacademic training
relevant to the
position.
Lead section with
most applicable
financial internship to
the job sought.
Use a descriptive
position title that
accurately reflected
your role (e.g.,
Research Intern rather
than Intern).
Prioritize bullet
focused on financial
aspect.
List a personal interest
that shows
industry
interest.
Résumé Guide | 11
Figaro Film
315-555-XXXX | www.linkedin.com/figaro-film | figar[email protected]
www.figarofilm.com
EDUCATION
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY May 20xx
Bachelor of Arts | Major: Film and Media Studies | Minor: Sociology
Relevant Coursework: Global Cinema, LGBTQ Cinema/Transnational, Introduction to Italian Cinema
PRODUCTION EXPERIENCE
Filmmaker | Documentary Film (FMST 333) | Colgate University Spring 20xx
• Created a 20-minute documentary film dedicated to the life of a Division I student-athlete on
a college campus using a digital single-lens reflex camera (Canon EOS Rebel SL3)
• Analyzed documentary films of the past 20 years to understand the evolution of film
production
• Collaborated with 3 student creators to direct, produce, and edit a 2.5 minute documentary
about a sculpting student by using Adobe Premiere Pro to edit the footage in order to
showcase the art-making process
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE IN FILM & MEDIA
Entertainment Development Intern | The Gotham Film Institute | Brooklyn, NY Summer 20xx
• Developed fundamental and critical skills within film, media, and advertising industries
through mentorship sessions, master classes, and career development workshops
• Learned the basics of Adobe Cloud Software (Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro) to
enhance technical abilities
• Created a pitch deck for independent screenplay project, which was shared with 20 staff
members, Colgate University professors, and fellow peers within The Gotham cohort to
showcase work completed throughout the 8-week program
Contributing Writer | The Maroon News | Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Started film column in the school newspaper writing reviews, opinion pieces, and
commentaries on the entertainment field for the Colgate community
• Highlights include works on Empty Space, The End of Everything, and a special on movie
theaters in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, further allowing an exploration for cinema
and the arts
Staff Writer | Her Campus Colgate | Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Write articles ranging from 500–1,000 words tailored for women at Colgate about topics
related to lifestyle, entertainment, and culture to enable powerful, accessible, and
entertaining material across campus for female students
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Treasurer | Budget Allocations Committee | Colgate University Fall 20xx–Spring 20xx
Volunteer | North Broad Street Mentoring | Colgate University Fall 20xx–Spring 20xx
SKILLS
Technical:
Advanced: Premiere Pro, Illustrator, iMovie, Final Cut Pro
Intermediate: Photoshop
Social Media:
Advanced: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter
Targeted writing and film résumé
If you have a digital
portfolio or social
media, incorporate
that into your contact
information.
Highlight specific
course projects
that you have
completed, listing
specific equipment or
software.
Use page or word
counts or film length
to quantify your
creative work.
Highlight technical
skills, including editing
software, camera
equipment, and other
creative tools.
12 | Colgate University Career Services
Peter Pre-Health
13 Oak Drive, Hamilton, NY | [email protected] | 315-228-XXXX
EDUCATION & HONORS
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY May 20xx (expected)
• Bachelor of Arts, Major: Psychological Science, pre-med track
• GPA: 3.84/4.00, Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence With Distinction
• Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology Fall 20XX
• Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society Fall 20XX
CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
Clinical Intern, Visionary Psychology Consulting, New York, NY June 20xx–Present
• Observe and participate in virtual Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Teacher-
Child Interaction Training (TCIT) to help provide evidence-based treatment for children with
oppositional defiant disorder
• Assign scores to data such as intakes, ECBIs, and homework by creating graphs in Excel to
aid in determining treatment progress
• Designed emotion regulation and sports curriculum for a summer intensive treatment for
children ages 4–6 with behavioral and self-regulation issues to promote treatment gains
Assistant Athletic Trainer, Department of Sports Medicine, Colgate University August 20xx–Present
• Perform stimulation therapy, tape wrists, and treat wounds for the Colgate University’s
NCAA Division I varsity football team to ensure the safety of athletes
• Serve as first medical responder to incidents that occur during games and practices to allow
for quick treatment
Observer, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY May 20xx–June 20xx
• Observed a variety of neurosurgery cases in the operating room in order to gain an
understanding of the processes and procedures of a neurosurgical physician assistant
Intern, New York Sports Medicine Institute (NYSMI), New York, NY May 20xx–June 20xx
• Observed various shoulder, elbow, and knee surgeries in the operating room in order
to gain an understanding of the processes and procedures of an orthopedic surgeon
• Wrote articles for NYSMI website about a variety of sports-related injuries to showcase
knowledge gained
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
Psychological and Brain Science Department, Colgate University January 20xx–Present
Lead Research Assistant (September 20xx–Present)
• Supported experimental study analyzing how inflated responsibility influences
decision-making among college students by running datasets and preparing lab
for qualitative interviews
Research Assistant (January 20xx–May 20xx)
• Coded and analyzed data collected from surveys in Excel to gather information about how
self-expanding activities promote a healthy relationship in retired couples
• Provided feedback for senior honor students’ thesis papers and presentations to help
finalize results
Research Assistant, Department of Psychology, Columbia University, New York, NY June 20xx–August 20xx
• Collaborated with PhD student and other research assistants to study the impacts
of social support in retired couples and how it mitigates anxiety in stressful situations
• Trained in impedance and ECG application to monitor and measure blood flow and
heart rate in participants
• Coded videos and conducted literature reviews to analyze and compare results to other
similar research studies
OTHER RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Club Member, Sidekicks, Colgate University September 20xx–Present
• Mentor 7-year-old child at the Hamilton Central School by engaging in weekly
activities to provide companionship
Targeted pre-health résumé
Include departmental
honor society
affiliations in your
education section.
Separate different
types of health
care experiences
in sections to
help organize the
document.
When you describe
shadowing, focus on
what you learned from
the experience.
If you held more
than one position
at an organization,
separate them to
show changes in
responsibilities and
growth.
Indicate specific skills
within your bullet
points if you do not
have a dedicated skills
section.
Indicating the track
you are on will convey
your area of interest
within the health
sciences.
Résumé Guide | 13
Sammy Science
Mailing Address, City, State, ZIP Code | email@colgate.edu | ###-###-####
EDUCATION
Colgate University, Bachelor of Arts, Hamilton, NY May 20xx
• Major: Geology
• GPA: 3.46/4.00
• Coursework: Senior Research Seminar in Geology, Geochemistry, Mineralogy, Petrology,
Structural Geology, Stratigraphy and Sedimentation, Evolution of Planet Earth, Field
Techniques in Geology, Hydrology and Surficial Geology, Oceanography, Paleontology of
Marine Life, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Introduction to Statistics
TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY
Equipment: Scanning Electron Microscope, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscope, X-ray
Diffractometer, X-ray Fluorescence Analyzer, SPOT Imaging Software, Optical Petrographic
Microscope, and Carver Hydraulic Unit
Research: field data collection, technical report writing, analytical balances, and Diatom
Settling Methods
Software: ArcGIS, MATLAB, Google Earth, Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Illustrator, Tri-Draw (advanced in all)
GEOLOGY FIELD RESEARCH & ANALYSIS
Department of Geology, Research Assistant, Colgate University Summer 20xx–Present
Research Adviser, Prof. Geode; Examining the mineralogy, petrology, and geochemistry of melted
rocks from a natural coal fire combustion system in Helper, Utah.
• Assembled self-collected samples and conducted laboratory analytical work through the
preparation of thin sections, epoxy mounts, and glass disks for analysis under the EDS, SEM,
XRD, and XRF
• Calculated the normative mineralogy of samples and represented these calculations on
phase diagrams to illustrate the pressure and temperature relationships
Department of Geology, Summer Research Fellow, Colgate University Summer 20xx
Research Adviser, Prof. Stalactite; Investigating the three-dimensional interaction of mantle
plumes and migrating mid-ocean ridges.
• Investigated magmatic process in the Galápagos by designing, implementing, and analyzing
a gravity survey through 3 weeks of fieldwork and of follow-up research funded by the
National Science Foundation under PI, Prof. Basalt
• Designed data analysis scripts through MATLAB and utilized preconstructed programs to
model geophysical systems occurring in the Galápagos
Field Techniques in Geology, Colgate University, Western United States Summer 20xx
• Completed a 6-week field program that provided further facilitation with the field methods
used in geology
• Prepared geologic maps, cross-sections, and technical reports at various sites in Colorado,
Utah, and Wyoming
• Developed geologic histories of multiple field sites with a focus on igneous, metamorphic,
and sedimentary processes
• Collected and packaged samples from Helper, Utah, to analyze at Colgate University as a
Research Assistant
CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT
Liberty Kids, Mentor, Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Visit local elementary school weekly in order to support teacher by facilitating classroom
activities covering math, reading, and writing
Shaw Wellness Institute, Bystander Intervention Facilitator, Colgate University Fall 20xx–Present
• Collaborate with facilitator team to develop innovative approaches to bystander training
workshops aimed at reducing domestic and dating violence at Colgate
• Effectively communicate bystander awareness training to clubs and organizations across
campus by facilitating engaging activities, developing rapport with participants and creating
a forum for open dialogue
Targeted natural sciences résumé
When including
coursework, list the
most relevant courses
first. Do not include
advanced and basic
coursework within the
same discipline.
When addressing
research, be sure to
include the principal
investigator or
research adviser.
List technical skills
in bullet descriptions
to help the reader
understand how you
have applied the ones
referenced in the
Skills or Technical
Proficiency section
Include course
projects or field
experiences to
illustrate knowledge
and skills that
are relevant to the
roles that you are
applying to.
14 | Colgate University Career Services
Targeted creative résumé
315-555-xxxx
carl.creative@colgate.edu
colgatecarlcreative.com
13 Oak Drive, Hamilton, NY 13346
SKILLS
Adobe Photoshop
Canva
Google Analytics
Search Engine
Optimization
Mailchimp
Instagram, TikTok,
Facebook
Snapchat, Pinterest,
Twitter
60%
80%
60%
80%
70%
80%
75%
Consider using
small icons to
further tell your
story.
If you use color on a résumé,
make sure it’s dark enough to
be legible on screen or in print.
You might consider matching
the colors of the organization’s
brand. Be careful with colors that
don’t work for colorblindness.
When listing skills,
use a proficiency
level or an image to
highlight the level
of your expertise.
Carl.CREATIVE
MARKETING EXPERIENCE
June 20xx–August 20xx
PAWS, Chicago, IL
Digital Marketing and Social Media Intern
• Gathered media for Instagram and Facebook stories (to be viewed
for 5–10 seconds) by conducting online research and interviews
with employees to communicate the mission of the organization to
the greater Chicago area
• Wrote concise, detailed social media content for Instagram,
Facebook, and Twitter on topics such as animal profiles and
upcoming fundraising events to encourage animal adoption
• Captured and edited photos and videos on a Canon PowerShot
Zoom of the animals in an engaging manner for promotional
advertisement
September 20xx–May 20xx
Independent Creator @colgatecarlcreative, Hamilton, NY
Digital Content Creator and Promoter
• Built and maintained an Instagram account, with a following of
approximately 5,000, geared toward promoting and showcasing
current Colgate student artistic work
• Conducted outreach to on-campus clubs and organizations to
build connections and grow number of followers
August 20xx–May 20xx
Colgate Live Music Collective, Hamilton, NY
Member
EDUCATION
May 20xx
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY
Bachelor of Arts
Major: Psychology
GPA: 3.24/4.00
CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT
January 20xx–May 20xx
Masque and Triangle (student theater company),
Colgate University
Member
January 20xx–May 20xx
Club Swimming, Colgate University
Member
Link digital
work and social
media profiles
if the content is
appropriate.
Résumé Guide | 15
Résumé and cover letter action verb cheat sheet
Planning
Administered
Allocated
Anticipated
Commissioned
Determined
Developed
Devised
Evaluated
Forecasted
Formulated
Identified
Planned
Prepared
Prioritized
Researched
Reserved
Revised
Strategized
Studied
Tailored
Organizing
Acquired
Activated
Adjusted
Allocated
Arranged
Assembled
Assessed
Authorized
Cataloged
Classified
Collected
Committed
Confirmed
Contracted
Coordinated
Customized
Delegated
Designated
Designed
Dispatched
Established
Facilitated
Housed
Implemented
Incorporated
Instituted
Issued
Linked
Logged
Obtained
Ordered
Procured
Programmed
Recruited
Retrieved
Routed
Scheduled
Secured
Selected
Simplified
Sought
Suggested
Tracked
Executing
Acted
Administered
Collected
Completed
Conducted
Displayed
Distributed
Enacted
Exercised
Forwarded
Installed
Operated
Performed
Processed
Produced
Proved
Shipped
Sold
Stocked
Transacted
Leadership
Adjusted
Analyzed
Assessed
Built
Certified
Chaired
Compared
Controlled
Corrected
Developed
Directed
Discovered
Elected
Encouraged
Established
Examined
Explored
Facilitated
Founded
Inspected
Inspired
Judged
Launched
Led
Licensed
Maintained
Measured
Modified
Monitored
Officiated
Overhauled
Oversaw
Pioneered
Prohibited
Promoted
Refined
Regulated
Reviewed
Revised
Scrutinized
Stimulated
Strengthened
Supervised
Tightened
Trained
Updated
Problem-solving
Alleviated
Analyzed
Brainstormed
Collaborated
Conceived
Created
Debugged
Decided
Deciphered
Detected
Diagnosed
Engineered
Foresaw
Formulated
Found
Investigated
Recommended
Remodeled
Repaired
Revamped
Revitalized
Satisfied
Solved
Synthesized
Theorized
Communicating
Adapted
Addressed
Clarified
Communicated
Composed
Concluded
Consulted
Convinced
Corresponded
Critiqued
Dedicated
Defined
Deliberated
Demonstrated
Drafted
Edited
Educated
Explained
Extracted
Greeted
Highlighted
Illustrated
Improvised
Indicated
Informed
Instructed
Interpreted
Interviewed
Justified
Lectured
Marketed
Mediated
Moderated
Negotiated
Persuaded
Presented
Publicized
Questioned
Referred
Reinforced
Reported
Represented
Shaped
Specified
Spoke
Submitted
Suggested
Summarized
Supplemented
Surveyed
Synthesized
Systematized
Taught
Tested
Translated
Transmitted
Verified
Welcomed
Wrote
16 | Colgate University Career Services
Benton Hall • 315-228-7380 • colgate.edu/careerservices • ccs@colgate.edu
