Creating Resumes and Professional Documents

AI-Powered Resume Builder

Click here for information on how to access SkillsFirst, S&T's newest AI-augmented resume tool.

Creating a Resume

Start with a blank document. Templates and text boxes make it difficult to cut and paste, change margins, or add/delete information when needed. Your margins should be 1/2” to 1” on all four sides of the paper. Use an easy to read font such as Arial, Calibri, Verdana, or Times New Roman. The recommended font size for your name is 14 point; the recommended font size for all other items is 11 or 12 point.

If you are an undergraduate, your resume should be only one page long. For graduate and non-traditional students, the resume should be no longer than two pages.

A basic resume should include six basic sections: contact information, objective, education, experience, computer skills, and honors and activities. Additional sections may include relevant coursework, research, certification or special training, military experience, foreign languages, volunteer work and professional affiliations.

Writing the Cover Letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce your resume or provide additional information. It allows you to make an impression on your potential employer. Research the company before writing the cover letter so you are able to tailor your letter to the specific needs of the employer. Cover letters should be one page or less in length.

Benefits of a cover letter include the following:

  • Informs the employer of the position you are seeking or your objective
  • Impresses the employer by exhibiting excellent communication skills
  • Intrigues the employer by telling what you like about the company and how you would be a good fit
  • Interests the employer by highlighting your skills or experiences that qualify you for the position
  • Invites the employer to contact you for an interview

Undergraduate Engineering Cover Letter

Undergraduate CASB Cover Letter

ATS Friendly Cover Letter

*Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

 

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Curriculum Vitae

Sample References

Sample References