Career Planning Guide

2016-2017 Career Planning Guide
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech Blacksburg Campus
Advertiser Index
Across the Pond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Lehigh Hanson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Segars Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Allan Myers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Leidos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. . . . . . . . . . 78
CARE Veterinary Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Lutron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Temple University
Monolithic Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
School of Podiatric Medicine . . . . . . . . . 88
University of Charleston
School of Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Moog Components Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Tindall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Deutsche Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 National GeospatialTorc Robotics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Intelligence Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
DISH Network L.L.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
U.S. Army Christiansburg
Eastern Virginia Medical School/Old Dominion NAVAIR (Naval Air Systems Command) . . . . 81
Recruiting Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
University, Master of Public Health . . . . . 86 NAVSEA (Naval Sea
Systems Command) . . . . Inside Back Cover Varsity Internship Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Evonik Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
NET ESOLUTIONS
Virginia Tech Program in Real Estate . . . . . . 88
CORPORATION (NETE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Wake Forest University School of Business . 87
Gibbs & Cox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Newport News Shipbuilding, A Division of
Hagerstown Community College . . . . . . . . . 78
Huntington Ingalls Industries . . . . . . . . . 80 William & Mary School of Education . . . . . . 86
Freeport-McMoRan . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover
College Recruitment Media and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University wish to thank
the above participating sponsors for making this publication available to students.
3
Career and Professional Development
CAREER PLANNING GUIDE

INSIDE
Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 7
Meet the Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 8
Peer Career Advisor Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 10
CAREER EXPLORATION

Career Exploration Action Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12

REACH: Ready for Career Exploration And Career Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14
CAREER-RELATED EXPERIENCE

Cooperative Education and Internship Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16
Steps to Participate in the Cooperative
Education/Internship Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 17
GLOBAL EXPERIENCE SKILLS

Incorporate International Experience on Your Resume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 18

Include Study Abroad Experience in Your Cover Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19
Create Answers to Interview Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19
HEALTH PROFESSIONS ADVISING

Successful Application to Health Professions School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 20

Application Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 21

Sample Health Profession Resume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 24
GRAD SCHOOL

Researching Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Planning for Graduate School Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Creating a Personal Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Personal Statement Example With Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES

Getting Started With Your Job Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Benefits and Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Out These Online Products and Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A Visual Guide for Hokies4Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Federal Job Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Career and
Professional
Development
www.career.vt.edu
WRITING RESUMES

The Resume Puzzle: What Pieces Fit You? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 45

Resume Dos and Donts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 46
Sample Career Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 47
Power Skills for Your Resume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 48
Resume Bullet Formula . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 49
Sample Resumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 50
Curriculum Vitae . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 62
CORRESPONDENCE

Five Key Points About References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cover Letter 101 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Letters of Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Letter of Inquiry About Internship Possibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Follow-Up Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INTERVIEWING

Interviews: Tips, Types, and To Dos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 67

Research Employers Before Interviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 68
Interviews Are a 2-Way Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 69
Video Interviewing Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 70
Use InterviewStream to Perfect Your Interview Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 71
Group Interviews: Are YOU Ready? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 71
Behavioral Interviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 72
Interview Follow-Up Correspondence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 73
SALARY

Salary Information: What Are You Worth? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Compare Your Offer$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Negotiating Job Offers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Job Offer Letter Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NETWORKING & RESEARCHING

Get Started Networking! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Informational Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Career Fairs: Are YOU Ready? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
You Need to Be on LinkedIn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What to Wear: Unlocking Dress Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Are You Career Ready? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
College to Career . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Special Thanks to Our Sponsors for

Making This Publication Possible
Please refer to their advertisements throughout this Guide.
See Advertiser Index on page 3.
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Smith Career Center

corner of Washington Street
& West Campus Drive
540-231-6241
Office hours:
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Walk-in advising:
Visit our website for walk-in
hours
If you are a person with a d isability and desire
assistance or accommodation, please notify
our office.
Dear Fellow Hokies!

Your career journey started before you came to Virginia Tech and will continue well beyond graduation.
Your Virginia Tech experience will give you a great advantage, if you fully embrace your college experience!
As you think of your life-after-Tech, dont assume that your Virginia Tech degree alone will get you places. But you
can assume that your degree PLUS the culmination of engagement in student organizations, leadership roles, internships,
community and international service, class and research projects, study abroad, and teamwork in intramural sports (for
example) will serve you well. You can count on these types of opportunities to develop your character and develop much
sought-after competencies for career success.
Our staff can help you:

EXPLORE yourself, majors, and careers!

EXPERIENCE that matters is at your fingertips!
DEVELOP your professional presence and critical employability skills for success in the workplace!
LAUNCH your career plans through your job search or application for continued education!
We are here for you! Come early and often!

See you soon,
Donna Cassell Ratcliffe (Director) and the Career and Professional Development Team
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
Meet
the
Donna Ratcliffe
Amy McPherson
Jim Henderson
Ashley Jaramillo
Peter Johnston
Jamie Lanter
Leigh Anne Leist
Director
Senior Associate Director
Associate Director
Employer Relations
Assistant Director
Receptionist
Applications & Database Programmer
Associate Director
Katie Baer Beach
Lisa Boothe
Assistant Director
Assistant Director
Employer Relations
Jonathan Byers
Staff
Assistant Director
Ali Mayer
Jenean Meadows
Graduate Assistant
Cooperative Education &

Internship Program Associate
Melissa Obenhaus
Ashley Roberts
Health Professions Advising

Program Coordinator
Event Planner &

Social Media Coordinator
Tamara Cherry-Clarke
Claire Childress
Kristen Coffey
Catherine Copeland
Carol Robinson
Becca Scott
Kelly Shannon
Heidi Thuesen
Assistant Director
Associate Director
Graduate Assistant
Senior Assistant Director

Assessment & IT/Web Administrator
Director
Associate Director
Marketing Manager
Assistant Director
Lauren Craft
Sue Ellen Crocker
Vickie Earthman
Employer Relations Assistant
Office Manager
Receptionist
Cathy Wagnon
Donna Weikel
Steven White
Fiscal Assistant
Employer Relations Coordinator
Graduate Assistant
Virginia Tech
Peer Career Advisor Program

My favorite thing about
working as a PCA is the
opportunity to work with
students one-to-one
and constantly making
connections. I love
working together to
solve problems and
knowing that our service
makes lasting changes
on students lives,
futures, and their overall
experience at Virginia
Tech.
My favorite thing about

working as a PCA is the
interaction we have
with peers and knowing
that we have a positive
impact on their futures.
Peer Career Advisors (PCAs) are undergraduate students who have been trained
to assist with a variety of areas in the career planning process. They have a strong
understanding of resources and can help guide you in the right direction depending on
needs. Major responsibilities include advising, outreach and education, and programming
assistance.
Meet With a Peer Career Advisor

PCAs are available to assist you during fall and spring semesters through 10-minute walk-in
advising, held Monday-Friday from 12-3 pm at Career and Professional Development. No
appointment is required for walk-in advising; just check in at our reception desk.
PCAs are trained to help with the following:
Resume and cover letter review and development
Internship and job search topics and resources
Career related workshops and presentations
Preparing for career fairs
Using online resources such as Hokies4Hire and Career Shift
Interview preparation
Campus outreach promoting Career and Professional Development events and other
special projects
Interested in Becoming a PCA?

We recruit and hire new PCAs in late October each year. Please go to
www.career.vt.edu in October for more information about how to apply.
Were Hiring
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10
jobs.leidos.com
Leidos. All rights reserved.
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
Explore Consider these action items to guide your career journey!
1.
Self-Assessment
Self-assessment is about doing a
realistic appraisal of you and is the
starting point for career planning. During
this step you will:
Try This To-Do List!

Take self-assessments
Identify your interests, skills, values,

and personality type.
Sign up for a wide variety of

classes
Determine how these important

factors influence your career
decision(s) and satisfaction.
Figure out or fine tune your

strengths and skills
Learn those areas in which you

need to improve, gain
knowledge, or experience.
3.
Decision Making
Self-assessment and research
provides the foundation for you to
compare and contrast your options
and choose the majors/careers that
are a best fit for you.
Now is the time to begin exploring

ways to try out your career
interests.
Declare your major,

congratulations!
Review Admissions List of

Undergraduate Majors
2.

Research career options
for the majors you are
considering
Check out
CandidCareer.com
The Career Resource
Center in Smith Career
Center
Browse the Post-Grad Report
Begin networking with Virginia
Tech Alumni on LinkedIn
Make the most of course projects

and assignments
Consider participating in these

opportunities:

Job shadowing

Volunteering

Undergraduate research

Education abroad

Part-time job/summer
employment
Explore student organizations

of interest
Take the time to gather

information about various
career fields and academic
options that complement
your self-assessment results.
Thorough research leads to
quality decisions.
Narrow your interest areas
Explore internship or cooperative

education experiences related to
your major
Get connected with

Career and Professional
Developments social media
pages
Career Research
Meet with your academic advisor
4.
Goal Setting and Action

Plans
Define your career goal(s) and set a

realistic action plan with the steps
and deadlines to meet your goal(s).
Create/update your resume and

cover letter
Goals should be Specific,

Measureable, Attainable, Realistic,
and Timely. Make certain you
include some type of career-related
experience!
Attend career fairs and employer

information sessions
Practice your interview skills with
Interview Stream and a mock
interview at Smith Career Center
Participate in on-campus recruiting
activities through Hokies4Hire
Conduct informational
interviews
12
Always include these items on your to-do list!

Meet with a career advisor regularly throughout your time at Virginia Tech.
Explore our website at www.career.vt.edu and the many resources we have to offer.
13
Virginia Tech
Career Exploration
Virginia Tech
Career Exploration
REACH: Ready for Exploration And Career Help
Woofound Reflection
Your Career Personality Blend is the combination of your two primary career personality types. This is an integration of
traits, personality strengths, and your approach to work determined by your responses.
Deciding on an academic major or choosing

among career options for a major you
love can be some of the most challenging
decisions you will make. Research suggests
that up to 80% of students entering college
are not certain about what they want to
study, and approximately 50% of students
change their major at least once before
graduation. Choosing satisfying academic
and career paths can take time and effort.
Through REACH, Career and Professional
Development offers you specific
opportunities to work through the
career exploration process. You will find
encouragement and support from our career
advisors as you learn more about who you
are and how your unique strengths, talents,
and attributes impact your choice of major
and career options. And, yes, you can get
started now. Begin by Imagining Your Future!
First, learn more about yourself by using Woofound. (vt.woofound.me)
What is your Personality Blend?
Read the Personality Blend description. Does it sound like you? Why or why not?
In your Personality Breakdown, you may hover over the personalities to learn about each one. The entirety of your
personality determines your career recommendations. What traits do you like best and why?
Under Complements and Conflicts, what other types may you work well with or need to work harder to get along with?
What is your Best Work Environment?
Watch the short introduction video

Create an account (using your vt.edu email) and
begin the visual personality assessment
In less than 10 minutes you will have results to begin the discovery of Who am I?
View your Career Matches, and utilize the filter under Best Match to find careers based on level of education. By
clicking each career, you will find basic information including salaries, education requirements and job growth (Career
and Professional Development has a wealth of additional resources for more in-depth career research.) Which of these
careers interests you and why?
Next, What did you learn?

Use the prompts on the following page to reflect on
what Woofound has shared with you!
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Want to know more? We would love to talk to you about your Woofound results and share additional resources you may
use in your exploration process! Schedule an appointment with a career advisor by calling (540) 231-6241.
15
Virginia Tech
Cooperative Education and

Internship Program
One Strategy for Engaged Learning
Career-Related Experience
Volunteering
Job Shadowing
Part-time/Seasonal Jobs
Research Opportunities
Student Activities/Clubs
Creativity & Problem Solving: Exercise sound

reasoning to analyze issues, synthesize information,
make decisions and solve problems. The ability to
think critically and strategically to develop original
ideas and innovative solutions.
What are employers seeking when they hire a cooperative education or internship student?
How to Get Started?
Communication: Articulate thoughts and express

ideas effectively using oral, written and non-verbal
communications skills (to instruct, inform and
persuade), as well as listening for meaning to gain
understanding. The ability to deliver information in
person, in writing, and in a digital world.
Teamwork & Interpersonal: Build and maintain
collaborative relationships to work effectively with
others in a team setting through shared responsibility,
empathy and respect. The ability to manage ones
emotions and conflict with others while contributing
towards a common goal.
Volunteer/Service
Learning
Co-ops &
Internships
Field
Studies
What is meant by the termsInternship and

Cooperative Education?
Internship usually refers to a one-term work assignment,
most often in the summer, but not always. Internships
can be full- or part-time, paid or unpaid, for credit or not for
credit depending on the employer and the career field.
Co-op usually refers to a multi-work term agreement with
one employer; traditionally with at least three work terms
alternated with school terms, resulting in a five-year degree
program for what would otherwise take four years. Co-ops
are traditionally full-time, paid positions.
However, at Virginia Tech the Cooperative Education and
Internship Program allows more flexibility as it can also be
used for a one semester experience with one employer that
is paid and full time.
Beware: Not all employers use these terms consistently or
with consistent meanings!
16
Research
Externships/
Job Shadowing
Student Projects/
Competitions
My participation in the co-op program exposed

me to a professional work environment, assisted
me with public speaking and group dynamics,
helped me decide to pursue a concentration in
spacecraft instead of aircraft, inspired me to
attend graduate school, and provided me with
the finances necessary to support
my own education.
Joe Hickman, Senior
Aerospace Engineering
Why should you get career-related experience?

Gaining career-related experience can have a direct impact
on your professional development, because the majority of
employers who recruit college graduates prefer to hire those
who have some type of related experience. 90 percent of
employers said candidate experience is a factor in hiring
decisions, according to an annual survey by the National
Association of Colleges and Employers. Nearly half of
surveyed employers wanted new graduate experience to
come from an internship or co-op programs.
These experiences help you try out and confirm your career
interests, develop real world skills that enhance your
qualifications for future employment, make contacts in
your field, and possibly gain offers of full-time employment.
How can you get this experience?

Cooperative Education
Internships
Externships
Virginia Tech
Leadership: Motivate, organize and delegate work by

leveraging the strengths of individuals. The ability to use
empathetic skills and a positive attitude to guide and
influence other whiles reaching a shared goal through
adaptability and effective decision-making.
Professionalism & Productivity: Demonstrate
integrity, resilience, accountability and ethical
behavior. The ability to take initiative, maintain
effective work habits (prioritize, plans and manage
work) to produce high quality results and project a
professional presence.
Global Perspective: Respect the viewpoints of those
from diverse cultures, races, ages, genders, religions
and lifestyles to build collaborative relationships and
communicate effectively. The ability to appreciate,
value, and learn from other cultures and perspectives
to move beyond tolerance.
Steps to Participate in the

Cooperative Education/
Internship Program
1.Attend a Required Orientation for the Cooperative
Education/Internship that includes an overview of job
search strategies, resume services, and interviewing
assistance that the Virginia Tech Smith Career Center
can provide. Work on case study scenarios from
real life situations our students have faced in work
environments and develop the professionalism needed
to be successful. Sessions are offered throughout the
semester. You only need to attend one. Dates and
times for orientations are posted on the Career Center
webpagewww.career.vt.edu
2.
Resume Preparation. Develop your resume and have it
critiqued through walk-in advising.
3. Complete Your Hokies4Hire Registration Profile
& Upload Your Resume. Upload your resume and
search job postings in Hokies4Hire to allow access by
employers.
4.
Job Search and Interviewing. Begin your search
for co-op/internship positions. Utilize Career and
Professional Development advisors, job search tools/
resources, Mock Interview Program, workshops, etc. A
checklist will be given to you during orientation.
5.
Job Offer and Acceptance. Once an offer has been
accepted, stop the job search process and cease
interviewing. Do not renege on your commitment.
Have your employer provide a written job offer and
job description.
Log into your Hokies4Hire account to Report A
Co-op/Internship Hire.
Upload your offer letter and job description to
Hokies4Hire.
6.Meet with your Coordinator and/or the Assistant
Director for the Cooperative Education and Internship
Program (CEIP) to develop your work/school schedule,
go over assignments, and sign the student agreement.
17
Virginia Tech
Career-Related Experience
Why Should I consider registering for the Co-operative Education and Internship Class CEP 4084?
Virginia Tech students have the unique opportunity to
register for a zero credit course that will retain their status
as a full time student while also providing
access to best practice methods and ensure
the experience will be highly beneficial. The $75
registration fee (with no other tuition costs) will
help with the following:
Make certain that loans and other forms of financial
aid do not come due because you are away from
campus working
Keep health care status as that of a student on
healthcare plans instead of being viewed as full time
employee
Have your full time Internship or paid full time co-op
experience on your transcript as a permanent part of
your academic transcript.
Virginia Tech
Global Experience Skills

Provide access to career advisors who will help you
navigate through the semester (s) or summer away
from school if any issues arise
Establish a Partnership Agreement that puts the
student, the employer, and the university in teaching/
learning roles as well as in supervisor/mentor roles
Ensure that meaningful Learning Objectives are
developed that make sure you are working in real
time situations where you can develop new skills and
practice what you have learned in the classroom
Give employers an opportunity to review and support
your work with the Employer Evaluation process
Provide a Reflection Process when you return
to campus that will assist you in turning those learning
objectives into accomplishment statements for your
resume and practice how to communicate effectively in
oral presentations about your experiences at work.
However, you may find it more beneficial to put your

experience under work experience or volunteer experience.
An example would be:
Intern, Airbus, Hamburg, Germany
September 2012 January 2013
Translated technical reports from German to English in order for them to be used in other countries
headquarter offices.
Collaborated with five other team members to improve the wind turbine of the A380 model.
Communicated with clients in seven other countries, learning cultural customs and language skills.
Worked independently to design a propeller for the A350 models.
How Can I Include My Study Abroad Experience in a Cover Letter?

Concisely describe the skills you gained from your
international experience and how those skills relate to the
position you are applying for. You do not want to repeat
exactly what is on your resume. You should highlight your
experience while enticing the interviewer to learn more
about it.
Lets say a student spent a summer in Madrid, Spain

studying at a Spanish university. This student is now
applying for editorial internships because she wants to
find a job as a magazine editor after she graduates. This is
what she may say in her cover letter:
During my semester in Madrid, Spain, I studied translation for the first time. I translated literary text and
newspaper articles from Spanish to English. This not only improved my Spanish language skills, but also helped
me to understand the nuances of my native language. I learned how word choice, sentence structure, and
grammar can influence meaning, which will help me with the detail-oriented job of copy editing.
How Can I Create Answers to Interview Questions?
Remember to focus on specific examples, interactions,

moments, people or events instead of the value of the
overall experience. Have three to five specific examples
demonstrating the skills you gained to share.
Global Experience Skills

Identifying Skills Gained and Articulating Your Experience
Examples of skills, identified by employers, you might
gain through a global experience. Taken from (Hart, 2006)
and (Gardner, Steglitz & Gross, 2009):
Teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate with
others in a diverse setting.
Ability to apply knowledge in a real world setting.
Ability to communicate effectively.
An understanding of how global issues affect the future.

A sense of integrity and ethical behavior.
An understanding of cultural values and traditions of
the US and other countries.
Adapting to new situations.
Ability to work independently.
Undertaking tasks that are unfamiliar.
How Do I Incorporate My International Experience on My Resume?

This will vary based on the kind of international experience
you had and where you feel your experience fits best.
If you studied abroad or took classes at a foreign

university, one option is to include your experience in the
education section of your resume. Here is an example:
Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, Minor in Green Engineering

Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
May 2015
GPA:3.2
Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark

June 2013 - July 2013
Completed summer unit operations lab.
Conducted seven experiments.
Collaborated with students of various cultures to create and present on Danish Culture.
Took excursions to world-leading chemical production site to see theories learned put into practice.
18
Here are some potential questions that may be asked:

Tell me about yourself.
Describe a personal or professional challenge.
Describe an instance in which you communicated
effectively.
How have you asserted yourself under pressure?
Describe an instance in which you used problem
solving skills?
Also be prepared to answer questions directly about your

experience:
What did you learn about yourself as a result of your
international experience?
Why did you choose to study in (country name)? Why
was it important to you?
Can you describe a time when you had to change
your behavior to accommodate or adjust to different
local conditions?
Example Answer: Describe an instance in which you communicated effectively.

While I was studying abroad in Chile I had the opportunity to volunteer at a bilingual school. While the children
in the school could speak basic English, the parents of the students could not speak any English. So, during
parent teacher conferences I had to effectively use my Spanish skills to communicate with the parents of
my students. This experience enabled me to see how important word choice, body language, and tone are in
communicating and allowed me to learn to communicate differently depending on my audience.
References:
Hart, P. D. (2006, Dec 28). How should colleges prepare students to
succeed in todays global economy?. The Association of American Colleges
and Universities, Retrieved from http://www.aacu.org/leap/documents/
Re8097abcombined.pdf
Gardner, P., Steglitz, I. & Gross, L. (2009). Translating study abroad
experiences for workplace competencies. The Association of American
Colleges and Universities, Retrieved from http://catcher.sandiego.edu/
items/cee/Reading7.SA for Workplace Competency.pdf
For a sample resume, see page 56.
19
Virginia Tech

The goal of Health Professions Advising (HPA) at Virginia
Tech is to advise and mentor students to become
competitive and successful candidates at their chosen
Health Professional schools.
Any student or alumnus/alumna of Virginia Tech,
regardless of major, can use the services of HPA.
HPA assists students and alumni pursuing a health care
career in many health professional fields.
We have students pursuing:
Medical School
Veterinary Medicine
Chiropractic
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Genetic Counseling
Podiatry
Dentistry
Pharmacy
Nursing
Athletic Training
Optometry
Speech Pathology
Or any other graduate
health profession
Tips on a Successful Health

Professional School Application
What qualities do health professional schools seek
in applicants?
Generally, health professional schools want excellent
students with a demonstrated ability in science who:
make the most of the academic opportunities available at
Virginia Tech, made efforts to learn about the health care
field, and have demonstrated a commitment to serving
others. Furthermore, professional schools seek students
who portray the qualifications listed below:
Maturity
Trustworthy
Reliability
Enthusiastic
Culturally competent
Service oriented
Intellectually curious
Resilient
Capable of Leadership Honest
Successful applicants, however, must first demonstrate
a mastery of the pre-requisites and requirements for
their chosen health professional school. It is encouraged
for applicants to show an intellectual breadth by either
majoring outside of the sciences, or by taking coursework
in the humanities and social sciences. The ability to read
rapidly and understand dense, sophisticated material in
the humanities and social sciences is especially important
for success on standardized tests. It is also important for
successful applicants to build and establish relationships
with at least three to four faculty members, as well as a
20
professional in their field of choice. These professionals

will need to know you well enough to write a substantive
letter of recommendation when the time comes.
Perhaps most importantly, health professional schools
look for students who have demonstrated that they are
lifelong independent learners. This quality is evident in the
way they approach learning for the sake of learning, i.e.,
their intellectual curiosity, and their approach to learning
outside of the classroom. Additionally, students must
provide strong evidence of a firm motivation to pursue
a career in health care. Students who can demonstrate
through their actions that they care about the welfare
of fellow human beings and can effectively interact with
those of different backgrounds. Through their experiences,
students must also understand and be able to articulate
the obstacles and difficulties faced by todays health
professionals. Furthermore, students must develop skills
that will allow them to contribute to the health professional
school community and their intended profession.
When should I apply?

If you are planning on going directly into your health
professional school, this means you need to be applying
during the spring or summer of your Junior year,
depending on the health profession. However, most
students are not most competitive at that stage. Many
students who are committed to careers in health care
delay their application to health professional schools in
order to pursue other opportunities, and apply when they
are most competitive.
This would require a year or more between your bachelors
degree and matriculation at your health professional
schools. We call that a Gap or Bridge Year.
Here are some gap year suggestions:
Work in health care
Peace Corps
Research
City Year
Teach for America
Full-time jobs
Post-Baccalaureate or
Masters Program
We believe that, above all, it is important for parents and
academic advisors to allow each student to find their own
path and support them along the route. We emphasize
to students that a majority of our applicants are rising
seniors, while others have allowed additional experiences
to impact their application by applying as recent graduates
or alumni of one or more years.
Virginia Tech

What Is a Committee Letter?
Many health professional schools/programs offer
students the option of submitting a composite letter
of evaluation (also known as a committee letter)
from their undergraduate institution as part of their
admission application materials. As a result, Health
Professions Advising at Virginia Tech offers students
the opportunity to participate in our Health Professions
Evaluation Committee (HPEC) interview process. As part
of this process, your committee letter is written. The
HPEC process is open to all students with a cumulative
undergraduate GPA of 3.20 or higher, who complete
and submit their application to interview by the posted
deadline. Students and alumni may only sit for the HPEC
Interview one time.
Typically, the following professional programs accept (or

strongly encourage) a committee letter: MD, DO, DDS,
Optometry, Podiatry.
Typically, the following professional programs do not
expect a committee letter: PT, OT, PA, Pharmacy, Nursing,
and other health professions.
Each student should look at the requirements of each of
the schools to which you are applying to know whether to
consider participating in the HPEC Interview Process.
For more information on the HPEC process, please visit
our website or make an appointment.
Application Timeline
As we said in previous pages, Health Professions Advising is here to guide you in all the steps of your journey to a health
professional school! From your first time on campus during summer orientation, through your graduation, we will be glad to
guide and mentor you! We encourage you to come early and come often! The only requirement for setting up a meeting with
a health professions advisor is to establish a Scholar eFolder, which can be done by visiting our website at www.career.
vt.edu/hpa. We encourage our students to open the Scholar eFolder as early as they are aware, as this adds you to our list
of students who receive our regular correspondence.
On the next page, you can see that the application process for most health professional schools span two years, and has
many small steps along the way. This can seem overwhelming if you try to take it all in at once! Remember, this process
is a marathon, not a sprint, and you have many resources to guide you here at Virginia Tech. As daunting as it may seem,
however, becoming a competitive applicant actually begins very early in your undergraduate career.
We encourage our students to:
EXPLORE
EXPERIENCE
DEVELOP
LAUNCH
By exploring all the aspects of yourself and by gaining

experience, you will have a vision as to what you will need to
further prepare for your future as a health professional.
You can then take some time along the way to develop the
skills and competencies needed for success.
21
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech

ENHANCE YOUR EXPLORATION
BOOST YOUR EXPERIENCE
TIPS FOR YOUR DEVELOPMENT
Attend HPA 101
Subscribe to HPA social media
Gain a health care certification
Attend HPA Meet the Deans
Complete a Mock Interview
Job Shadowing
Take StrengthsFinder
Join Pre-health clubs on campus
Get to know a professional in your field
Complete a realistic self-evaluation
Conduct Informational Interviews
Maintain a competitive GPA
Gain employment
Attend Open Houses
Attend Graduate School fairs
Conduct a personality assessment
Explore coursework options
Volunteer at a health facility
Become involved on campus
Attend HPA 202
Visit www.explorehealthcareers.org
Develop effective study habits
Attend HPA Seminars & Workshops
Gain Leadership Roles
Explore Majors
Identify a mentor
Volunteer in any capacity
Get involved in Research
Examine and confirm your career

choice
Research school requirements
This timeline
represents the two
years leading up to
matriculation into a
health professional
school. Please
note that this is
intended to be
used as a general
guideline in
conjunction with
regular meetings
with both your
academic advisor,
as well as a Health
Professions
Advisor. Not
every aspect of
the application
process is noted
in this description.
The timeline may
vary depending
on your health
profession of
choice, as well as
your own timeline.
To review your
specific needs,
please make an
appointment with a
health professions
advisor.
22
Attend the
Spring Pre-Health
Meet the Deans
(if applicable)
Meet with an HPA
advisor to review
your self-evaluation
and evaluate your
competitiveness
Apply to Health Professional

School within 45 days of
application opening (depending
on health profession)
Register for your standardized test

and formulate a study plan
Spring of year prior to

application
Fall of year prior to

application
Attend the Fall

Medical School
Meet the Deans
(if applicable)
Conduct a
Mock Interview
to prepare for
your HPEC
Interview
Summer
Be diligent with secondary

applications from schools
Fall in year of
Application cycle
Attend the Fall Medical School

Meet the Deans (if applicable)
Review
information
and deadlines
for your
centralized
application
service
Review the AAMC Core

Competencies and identify areas
upon which you need to improve
Complete FAFSA for

upcoming year
Accept offer
from your school
of choice
Spring in year of
Application cycle
Interview at
schools
HPEC Interview
Application
Due
Meet one-on-one with a health

professions advisor to discuss your
competitiveness and plan
Begin to talk to professors

and mentors about
Letters of Recommendation
Sit for
HPEC
Interview
Attend
HPA 202
Develop relationships with professors

or professionals that may be able to
serve as letter writers for you
Request official transcripts from ALL

college work attempted to be sent to
Centralized Application Services
Make a list of all schools/programs
to which you plan to apply
If not accepted,
meet with HPA
to discuss
options
Summer prior to
matriculation
Matriculate into
Health Professional
School
Attend the Spring

Pre-health Meet the
Deans (if applicable)
LAUNCH
All of our students take different

paths on their journey to a
health professional school.
These suggestions are intended
to be used as a guide, and are
best applied when also working
regularly with both your academic
advisor, as well as the health
professions advising office.
23
24
May 20XX
Current Address
456 Juniper Lane
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Student Researcher (total hours)

January 20XX-February 20XX
Dr. Eric Smiths Lab, Department of Biology
Average Hours per week
Conduct Polymerase Chain Reactions (PCRs) and run gels
Culture Cells; grow mutants and make spheroplasts
Applied correct lab protocol which required a great attention to detail
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
Soup Kitchen Volunteer (total hours)

So Others Might Eat (S.O.M.E.), Silver Spring, MD
Cooked a variety of dinner dishes with the staff
Developed organizational skills while cleaning and closing the kitchen after the days meals were
prepared
Student Volunteer (total hours)

Virginia Tech Community Literacy Corps, Blacksburg, VA
Teach local elementary school children how to read
Developed teaching skills, as well as strong communication skills in order to individualize each
childs needs.
Assist students after-school with homework and lessons, as well as became engaged in their
interests and social needs.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Shadowing Student (total hours)

January 20XX- February 20XX
Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, Roanoke, VA
Shadowed an internist, Dr. Lisa Smith
Observed Dr. Smiths interactions with patients while examining them and viewed her interaction
and well thought out explanations of diagnosis with patients and their families.
Gained a greater understating of the strong critical thinking and communication skills needed in
a physician
Certified Nursing Assistant (total hours)

June 20XX-August 20XX
Heritage Hall Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Blacksburg, VA
Provide high-quality patient care as a CNA within nursing-home and sub-acute care setting
Preserve patient dignity and minimize discomfort while carrying out duties such as bedpan
changes, diapering, emptying drainage bags, and bathing
Effectively worked on healthcare team, kept accurate charts, as well as consistently delivered
care with empathy and high spirits.
Emergency Department Volunteer (total hours)

September 20XX-January 20XX
Lewis-Gale HospitalMontgomery, Blacksburg, VA
Observed fast-paced Level one trauma center Emergency Department
Responsible for patient intake of blood pressure, pulse, and pulse oxygen content
Assisted patient transport throughout hospital, while calming and engaging patients in
conversation
Interacted with family members about condition of loved ones, understanding the importance of
empathy
CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

College of Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Overall GPA: 3.73, Science GPA: 3.65; GPA in Major: 3.58
EDUCATION
Permanent Address
123 Spring Street
My City, VA XXXXX
(540) 123-4567
thokies@vt.edu
Taylor Hokies
Fall 20XX-Present
Fall 20XX-Present
Fall 20XX-Present
Features of this resume:

Two pages is the preferred length for a Health Profession Resume (which differs from a
typical undergraduate resume).
List shadowing and any direct patient care experience under CLINICAL EXPERIENCE.
Show memberships in clubs and organizations under COMMUNITY SERVICE (with the
appropriate relevant descriptions).
Enter leadership positions in clubs or organizations under LEADERSHIP.
List any hobbies, interests, or unique facts about yourself under OTHER.
If you currently work as a healthcare provider, you may want to also consider a section
to list any skills, certifications, or licensures that you hold.
Source: Modified from http://www.prehealth.umd.edu
Fluent in Spanish, intermediate Portuguese

Spring semester study abroad in Switzerland
OTHER
Public Relations Chair

January 20XX-Present
Operation Smile
Assist in organizing and/or co-hosting events on campus with other organizations
Organize members to publicize events across campus via listservs, flyers, etc.
Honors Colloquium Section Leader

September 20XX-Present
Honors Program co-teach an intro course to a group of freshmen Honors students
LEADERSHIP
Deans List
University Honors Program
VT Chemistry Department
AWARDS/SCHOLARSHIPS
J. Thomas, S. Jones, T. Hokies, C. Chang, and J. Garcia, 20XX. Cartilage matrix proteins are
elevated in the joints of osteoarthritic compared to normal mice. Journal of Arthritis.
Submitted for publication.
PUBLICATIONS/PRESENTATIONS
Cashier (total hours)

West End Dining Hall Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Tended to customers as they were ordering food, paying attention to detail
Handled distribution of money during shift changes
Assisted unhappy customers with their order replacements or refunds
Copy Editor (total hours)

October 20XX-January 20XX
The Collegiate Times, Blacksburg, VA
Fact-checked all stories in database
Edited stories and page layouts for grammar, spelling, appropriate spacing, and aesthetics
EMPLOYMENT
Biological Science Aide

Examination of Cartilage Matrix Proteins via Atomic Force Microscopy
Dr. Joy Jones, National Institutes of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
Analyzed mice joint images of cartilage matrix proteins using an Atomic Force Microscope
Measured different dimensions and protein interlocking patterns between normal and
osteoarthritis (OA) afflicted matrix proteins
Sample Health Profession Resume
Virginia Tech
Graduate Education involves obtaining specialized

knowledge in a concentrated area of study, with two basic
types of degrees: academic and professional. An academic
degree involves research and scholarship in a particular
discipline. A professional degree provides training to
acquire skills and knowledge needed for a particular
profession (ex. Law and business school). There are three
basic degree levels: masters, specialist and doctoral:
Masters degrees are offered in almost every field of
study, although some universities only offer doctoral
programs in certain fields
Specialist Degrees are usually completed in addition
to a masters program and often require additional
training or internship experience; this type of degree
prepares an individual for certification or licensing
requirements necessary for some professions.
Doctoral studies usually require the pursuit of original
research for an academic program or the practical
application of knowledge and skills in professional
programs.
Is Graduate School for me?
This is the first determination you may need to make.

Before applying to graduate school, give careful
consideration to your goals. Remember, graduate school
is a means to a professional goal, not a way to extend
your undergraduate experience. Become familiar with
the working conditions, employment prospects and other
requirements of the field you plan to pursue. You may
also consider consulting with faculty or mentors to help
estimate your readiness for graduate work. Most Masters
programs will require at least two years of full time study,
with most doctoral degrees taking four to six years to
obtain.
RESEARCHING SCHOOLS
Once you have determined that you are on your way to

graduate school, the next step is to begin researching
Virginia Tech
Planning for
Graduate School
specific schools. There are many resources to review
and identify programs in your chosen career field. Dont
hesitate to talk to faculty members, as well as use online
and print resources. You may also want to attend the
Graduate and Professional School fair held in the fall to
speak with school representatives. Once you have a list of
several programs you are interested in, there are a number
of factors to consider when choosing a program.
These include:
Quality and Reputation of the Program

Consider the commitment to research by the faculty,
the reputation of the alumni, and the program
accreditation
Location and Size

How large is the department? What is the typical class
size? Are you near family?
How will you finance your degree?

What does the program cost and what forms of
assistance are available?
Satisfaction of current students

Ask to speak to students currently enrolled. What
advice do they have? Is there affordable housing?
What is the culture of the program?

Are the students friendly and inviting or competitive
and driven? Are the faculty good mentors?
You may have other criteria that is on the list for your own
personal exploration into graduate school. After you have
begun this progression, the next step is the application
process!
Source: Modified from Graduate School Planning Career

Services at Princeton University.
25
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
Timeline for Those Considering Graduate Programs

THE GRADUATE RECORD EXAM (GRE)
Most students take the GRE General Test the summer prior to
their senior year, or early in the fall semester of their senior year
The GRE measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and
analytical writing skills
For more information on the GRE including registration information
and test preparation, visit the Educational Testing Service
website (www.ets.org/gre)
Please note: If you choose to take a Gap year after your graduate, you
can substitute the Junior year for the year prior to application, and
the Senior year to the year of application.
If possible visit
any institutions
of interest
Register for
graduate
admissions
tests and
create a
study plan
Research schools
and programs in
your field of choice
Attend Graduate and
Professional School
Fair on campus
Fall of Junior Year

Begin looking at
school deadlines
and application
procedures
26
Follow up with
any schools you havent
heard from
Ask faculty
and mentors
for letters of
recommendation,
as needed
Check with
schools about
financial aid
options
Apply
Early!
Spring of Junior Year
Consult with faculty

and the Career Center
regarding your plans
Summer
Begin working on
application essays
and seek help
reviewing the
documents
Fall of Senior Year
Attend
Graduate and
Professional
School Fair
on campus
Wait for
admissions
decisions
Send
thank-you
notes to any
letter writers
and inform
them of your
plans
Spring of Senior Year
Choose among
school offers
Mail completed
application
materials to
programs
27
Virginia Tech
Creating a Personal Statement

Before you begin writing, it is important to do some reflection and plan your content: Think about any experiences you have
that would demonstrate why you want to enter the program or profession in which you are applying. What are you passionate
about? What are the major influences of your life? What have you learned about yourself from those experiences?
List 3 things the reader MUST know or understand about you:
Virginia Tech
Personal Statement
Example With Tips
Before you begin, prepare your materials. Gather transcripts, resumes,
applications and other materials that you may need to guide you.
Ex: 1) I lead by example 2) I want a career that includes research 3) Solving problems energizes me
1)__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2)__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3)__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Now, take those three things and phrase them as one sentence:
Ex Personal Thesis: I am an energetic, research oriented, problem solver who leads by example.
Write that sentence in the personal thesis bubble below. This is the basis for a personal statement. All of your examples
and stories in your personal statement should support this thesis. You may not come out and say this sentence, but by the
end the readers should know it to be true about you.
Now, in the supporting experience bubbles, take some time to brainstorm up to three experiences that support this statement.
You may want to consider at least one from your past, one from who you are now, and one of your goals for the future. In the
fourth bubble, discuss your vision of yourself as a future professional.
Congratulations! You now have your essay content. The content you listed may change during the editing process, but
hopefully you have taken the time to think about your past and what experiences led you to where you are now. Finding the
words to discuss who you are now, and who you want to be, will come. Continue to think about how you will you change the
world, or your profession. Be realistic, but dare to dream!
Supporting Experience #1
Personal Thesis
Your Vision as a Future Professional

28
Avoid unnecessary duplication. Your personal statement should not simply restate what is in other application materials.
Edit your paper and get help! Dont just rely on spellcheck and grammar check!
Be honest, sincere and humble.
Lastly, and most importantly, DO NOT PLAGIARIZE. DO NOT. Start from scratch. A subpar personal statement is better
than having someone question your integrity.
29
Virginia Tech
Getting Started With

Your Job Search
Complete this worksheet to help start your search for an internship or full-time employment. Bring completed worksheet to
your advising appointment. To reference industry information visit:
http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2013/article/occupational-employment-projections-to-2022.htm
PLEASE NOTE: THE FALL SEMESTER IS A HEAVY RECRUITING SEASON. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FALL CAREER FAIRS
AND ON-CAMPUS INTERVIEWING EVEN THOUGH YOU MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE TO WORK UNTIL LATE SPRING OR
SUMMER!
I would like to secure employment by this date ________________________.
The above industries/occupations/companies are of interest to me because: ________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Benefits and Cautions of Different Job Search Methods

These are snapshots of the benefits and cautions of each method. See Career and Professional Developments website
www.career.vt.edu for more details.
Method
Benefits
Cautions
On-Campus
Interviewing Program
Employers come to campus to interview

for internships and jobs. Interviews take
place in the Smith Career Center.
Competitive. Not every industry or type of

job represented. Starts early. Dont miss
it!
Hokies4Hire
www.career.vt.edu/
H4H
Employers list jobs specifically for VT

students. Posted jobs typically mean the
employer needs it filled soon.
Not every industry or job field is

represented.
Career/Job Fairs
Opportunities to speak with many

employers at one time in one space.
Many on the VT campus each year; each
with different sponsors and focus on
varying majors, colleges and types of
hiring.
You need to make a good impression

in person and look prepared. Youre
not necessarily learning about every
opportunity in each organizationyou are
learning about major hiring needs. Not all
employers attend them.
Networking Talking to
Personal Contacts
Its one of the top methods by which VT

graduates, university-wide, found the job
they accepted. Its real. It works. Many
jobs are never advertised; networking is
how you find them. See page 35.
If you are shy it could be somewhat

uncomfortable. You need effective
interpersonal skills and strong
motivation.
LinkedIn VT
Alumni Group
Networking source VT grads whove

volunteered to help students. What more
could you ask for? Can be helpful to find
contacts for a geographically targeted job
search.
If you are shy it could be somewhat

uncomfortable. You have to search for
alumni and take the initiative to contact
them. You need effective interpersonal
skills (see above).
CareerShift
Allows you to bring everything together

to search for jobs in one place. Search
listings from millions of companies posted
across the Web and save your searches;
find contacts within target organizations
along with their email addresses; and
manage your job search all within this
site. Also useful for interviews and for
location-specific job searches.
Avoid solely relying on the job listings.

Access contacts at target companies and
reach out to them when a listing is not
posted.
GoinGlobal
If you are looking to broaden your horizons

overseas, this is a great place to start.
Information includes international job
postings and tips on relocating to a new
country. Also has relocation and job search
information for major U.S. cities, including
H-1B Visa information which may be helpful
for international students.
There are a lot of details to pay attention

to (i.e., passports, cost of relocating and
living, language/culture barriers). Not all
countries included in Country Guides.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The key skills and attributes I can offer an employer are (see Power Skills page 48): ___________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
NETWORKING is still the No. 1 way VT grads found jobs. Grow your network through:
Campus Career Fairs
Employer Information Sessions
Extracurricular Activities
Virginia Tech Faculty/Staff
LinkedIn
Visit career.vt.edu and search for the job search guide to find online resources for a
wide range of internship and full-time opportunities.
Virginia Tech
Unsure what all you can do with your major?

Visit career.vt.edu and click explore self, careers & majors.
30
31
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
Check Out These Online

Products and Resources
Available on the Career and Professional Development website www.career.vt.edu
With CandidCareer you can watch informational interview

videos from actual professionals working in the field in
order to learn about a variety of careers and industries.
Explore 100s of careers and get an in-depth view of a Day
in the Life of various professions.
CareerShift helps you tap into the hidden job market

to identify both internship and full-time positions. Search
for job postings, as well as get contact information for
thousands of organizations. Manage your job search
activity in one place.
Hokies4Hire lets students search for co-ops, internships

or full-time positions that have been posted by employers
particularly looking to hire Hokies. This is also the system
that is used to manage our On-Campus Interviewing
Program.
32
CareerSpots allows you to watch 1- to 4-minute

informational videos on a variety of job search and
professional topics. Choose from 52 short videos on
topics such as interviewing, networking, elevator pitches,
and many more.
GoinGlobal allows you to search for jobs both

internationally and domestically. It provides you with
Country and City Guides, H1B employer information,
and job listings. Updated continually, this tool contains
more than 10,000 resources for finding employment
opportunities.
InterviewStream is a web-based mock interview program

that allows you to record yourself interviewing with your
computers webcam and send it to an advisor to provide
you feedback. There are over 6,000 questions to choose
from so you can practice using industry specific questions.
33
Virginia Tech
The Federal Job Search

The United States federal government is the nations
largest employer hiring tens of thousands of new employees
annually from virtually EVERY field of study and all over the
country with competitive salaries. Contrary to popular belief,
only 8 percent of federal jobs are in Washington, DC.
Get Started Networking!

What Is Networking?
Internship Program
Recent Graduates Program
Presidential Management Fellows Program
Did you know that networking is consistently the number one or two way that Virginia Tech graduates
find jobs? Networking is the process of developing relationships with others. So who is in your network?
Start with those close to youfriends, parents, professors, advisors, supervisors. You are not
trying to get a job from them, but the information for a contact to add to your network who might have
opportunities!
More information about the Pathways Programs can be

found at www.usajobs.gov.
When applying for positions with the federal government,
it is important to thoroughly read the vacancy
announcement and include all of the required information
on your resume and in your application. Applications
are scored up to 100 points. Scores below 70 are
not considered. Failure to include all of the necessary
information as outlined in the vacancy announcement
will result in a lower score and decrease your chances for
consideration.

Occupation
# of Employees
Hired in 2011
Administration

Medical and Public Health

Business and Finance
Miscellaneous

Security and Protection
Legal

Personnel Management
Engineering and Architecture
Social Science and Psychology
Physical and Biological Sciences

Information Technology
Education
9,826
8,782
7,157
4,963
4,139
3,033
2,105
1,791
1,263
1,178
1,177
907
The federal government has recently implemented

new hiring reforms and developed three Pathways to
employment that would be of interest to college students:
Many federal jobs ask you to complete a questionnaire

as part of your application. When completing the
questionnaire, make sure all your answers are reflected
on your resume. Consider a variety of experiences
beyond just employment where you might have done that
particular skill or task. Receiving too low of a score on
the questionnaire or not reflecting your answers on your
resume may decrease your chances for consideration.
It is important to note that the federal resume is different
from the traditional resume. See page 58 for a sample
federal resume.
Stop by Career and Professional Development for
advising on federal resumes and to learn about federal
opportunities for employment. Our office has a number of
resources available to help you in the federal job search
process including copies of Academic Career Guides.
Virginia Tech
Elevator Pitch/30-Second Commercial
If you were stuck in the elevator with the CEO of your dream company what would you say? This is where
the term elevator pitch came from. An elevator pitch allows you in 30 seconds to tell someone who you
are, why you are qualified, and what you can provide. Elevator pitches can be used while networking, at
a career fair, or to answer the interview question tell me about yourself.
30-Second Commercial Components
Here are some components to consider in developing

your unique introduction; choose a combination of the
following:
Greeting Hello, my name is _____ (include

your first and last name).

Year in School I am currently a _______
(freshman, sophomore, junior,
senior),
Major/Field of Study majoring in ________ (current
major or job-related interest).
Type of Experience I am looking for _______
(internship, co-op, summer, full or
part-time position).
When Youre Available for ________(summer, fall, spring)
of ____________ (year).
Strengths/Abilities My strengths are __________,
__________, and ___________.

Accomplishments I have ____________ and
________________.
Relevant Activities I am involved in ___________ and
_________.

Example of an Introduction:
Other Helpful Resources

Office of Personnel Management: www.opm.gov
USA Jobs: www.usajobs.gov
Go Government: www.gogovernment.org
Handbook of Occupational Groups and Families: www.opm.gov/fedclass/gshbkocc.pdf
Federal Agency Listing: www.usa.gov/federal-agencies/a
Pay Scale Information: www.opm.gov/oca/10tables/index.asp
Federal Jobs by College Major: www.usajobs.gov/Content/pdfs/Jobs_By_College_Major.pdf
Best Places to Work: www.bestplacestowork.org
34
Hi, my name is Jane Hokie and I am a sophomore

majoring in marketing. I am currently a Resident
Advisor on a hall of 33 students. This past semester
I managed a project where a group of 15 students
provided a two-hour field day for two fourth grade
classes at a local elementary school. I managed the
planning meetings, as well as solving two logistics
problems. The project involved twice as many students
as the one from previous years. I am seeking an
internship this coming summer in marketing to use
my planning and problem-solving skills in service to
your company. Would you tell me more about your
internship program?
35
Virginia Tech
Do Your Research
The Informational Interview

The primary purpose of informational interviewing is to:
Investigate a specific occupational field.
Gain insights into a career field.
Narrow options.
Solicit advice on where you may fit in.
Learn the jargon and current trends in the field.
Expand your network for future reference.
Note: An informational interview is to request
information, not a time for you to request job listings or
interview for a job.
2. Prepare for the Informational Interview

Before:
Learn as much as you can about the organization.
(See page 67 on Researching Employers)
Dress professionally.
Bring copies of your resume. Only distribute them if
requested.
During:
Arrive 10-15 minutes early.
State your purpose and why you are meeting with this
particular person.
Keep in mind that the informational interview is not
an interview for employment.
Be prepared to lead the conversation, since you are
the interviewer.
Keep to your request of 20-30 minutes.
Ask for referrals to other appropriate individuals in
the field or organization.
After:
Send a thank-you note and keep the individual posted
on your progress.
Always ask if you can keep in touch.
Evaluate your interview. What could you improve
upon? Use what you have learned from this
experience when you conduct future interviews.
Evaluate the information you received. How does it
relate to your goals?
36
Virginia Tech
Career Fairs: Are YOU Ready?
Get Started Networking
1. Know What You Want to Accomplish
3. Use These Sample Informational Interview

Questions as a Guide
A) Questions about the career field:
What is your job title? What are the associated duties
and responsibilities of this job?
What was your career path prior to obtaining this
position?
What preparation is required to qualify for a job like
yours?
What do you like most about your job? Least?
Would you describe a typical day/month/ season/
cycle?
What other personnel and/or departments work
closely with you?
What college courses or experience would help
me gain additional knowledge to prepare me for a
position like this one?
What is a typical career ladder in this field?
What salary range could I anticipate in this field?
How would someone with my background fit into this
organization?
Can you refer me to others in this field with whom I
might also discuss this career field?
B) Questions about the organization:
What is the philosophy of this company? What are its
long- and short-term goals?
What are some of the benefits of working for this
organization in comparison to others?
What types of training programs are available?
How would you rate the working environment in this
company (physically, socially, professionally)?
What is the outlook for the future of this company?
What are some of the problems faced by this
company?
Can you refer me to others in this organization with
whom I might be able to speak?
Informational interviewing is an effective tool in both
career planning and the job search process. It may
be one of your most valuable strategies in gathering
information and establishing a network. Like all other
facets of career planning, informational interviewing
requires prior planning and preparation on your part.
Make the interview open doors for you and your career.
Find out which employers will attend the

career fair.
Visit www.career.vt.edu for a list of
campus job fairs and links to employer
websites.
Create your ABC list of employers you
plan to talk with:
A = Wowreally interested.
B = Good opportunities
C = Not my 1st choice, but okay
Talk with B and C list employers to practice your
30-second commercial
Move on to A list employers and deliver your 30-second
commercial with confidence
AttireProfessional or Business Casual
Unsure? It is better to be overdressed. First impressions

are important. Do some research on the job fair you plan to
attend or the industry itself.
WomenSee pages 40 and 41 to

learn more about dress codes
skirt or pants
tailored shirts
blouses, sweaters, or blazers
MenSee pages 40 and 41 to learn more about

dress codes
long-sleeve button-down or polo shirt tucked in
khaki pants or dress slacks
leather belt and shoes, and dress socks
Attire should be clean, pressed, professional, and fit you
properly
Wear professional, yet comfortable shoes because you
will be on your feet and walking around the fair.
Leave Backpacks at Home

theyre cumbersome
they get in the way
they scream student, not
candidate
Participate in the Fair
Be prepared to talk with employers.

ask meaningful questions
develop and practice your
30-second commercial
ask recruiters for business
cards for follow-up notes
Stop, Look, & Listen
Listen to questions asked and

answers received by other
attendees. You might:
pick up valuable information
see real-life career search dos and donts
Ask Questions Based on Your Goals

Interested in a particular career field?
Ask questions about working within the
industry.
Interested in opportunities with a specific

employer?
Ask questions about the application and
interview process.
Bring These to the Fair

copies of your resume
pens, pencils
padfolio with paper
positive attitude
37
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
You Need to Be on
Professional Facebook
Primary tool for online professional networking.
Not a place for social networking.
Connects you to people, jobs, and opportunities.
Benefits
+Provides online professional presence.
LinkedIn Student Jobs Portal
+Houses electronic business card, resume, cover letter,

and references all in one location.
Access entry-level jobs and internships at some of

the best companies worldwide at the student and
recent grad job portal:
+Increase the number of people in your network of

contacts, including alumni.
+Access to job listings.
LinkedIn Connection Message
When connecting with someone on LinkedIn

always personalize the connection request. Give
the person context for why you are asking them to
be a connection. Never use the default message.
http://www.linkedin.com/studentjobs
Share this URL in your resume and email signature.
+Research companies or people you are going to meet

using company profiles.
Build a Stellar Profile

Profile Heading Gives a short, memorable way to
understand who you are in a professional context. Use
120 characters to make an employer want to read
more. Ex: Recent VT Honors grad seeking marketing
position

Appropriate Photo A headshot, professional looking
picture of just you.
Join Groups Link to others with similar experience,

interests, affiliations, or goals. Start with a university
group. Other groups to add include volunteer
organizations or professional associations you belong
to. As a group member, you can find exclusive job
listings and join discussions.

Show Off Your Education Provide information about
all institutions attended. Include majors or minors.
Highlight your activities, including study abroad
programs. If you have a strong GPA, share it.
Recommendations Prove your work adds value and

how you do your job. You can ask for recommendations
from professors, internship coordinators, employers,
and professional mentors. Your Profile will reach
completion once you obtain recommendations. A more
complete profile shows up in searches.

Professional Summary Resembles your cover letter.
Talk about your goals, qualifications, and experience.
Emphasize unique skills. Present your summary in
short blocks of text or bullet points for easy reading.

LinkedIn URL Increase the professional results that
appear when people type your name into a search
engine, set your LinkedIn profile to public and claim a
unique URL for your profile.
Sample
Approach
Email
Dear Ms. Smith,

My friend Rusty Jones said to contact you about
my interest in marketing research. I am a junior
communications major at Virginia Tech trying to learn
more about the field
Besides focusing on academics I am also actively
involved in the Student Government Association where
I serve on the marketing committee and am a member
of the club soccer team.
I was hoping that you would have a few moments in the
next week or two to discuss your career path, and share
some knowledge on how to break into the marketing
research field. You can contact me at (540) 555-2222
or nlavender@vt.edu. Thank you for considering my
request.
Sincerely,
Nicole Lavender
38
39
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
What to Wear: Unlocking Dress Codes

When deciding what to wear for an interview, career fair, business meeting or professional event it is always best to
research the organization, industry and event to determine which dress code is expected or most appropriate. Here are
some general guidelines about common dress codes for business and professional occasions.
SMART CASUAL (sometimes referred to as dressy casual) is appropriate when explicitly mentioned and found in many
office environments.
BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL is appropriate for most interviews (particularly in corporate, legal and business settings, as well
as education and health professions), career fairs, formal networking events and some work environments.
Attire should be professional, conservative and timeless. Stay consistent with both your brand and the companys image.
Suits should be neat, clean, ironed/pressed, stain-free, in good condition, tailored to fit you properly and a current cut
and style.
Choose a dark neutral suit color such as black, navy or charcoal gray.
For skirt suits, skirts should be knee-length and skin-toned pantyhose are encouraged (especially during colder weather).
White or light colored long sleeved button down shirt, as well as a blouse or shell, should be worn under your suit jacket.
Wear either low-heeled, closed toe pumps/flats or classic leather lace up with dark colored socks that match your pants.
All shoes should be polished and in good condition.
Belts should match your shoe color and choose a tie with a conservative pattern.
Hair should be neatly trimmed or pulled away from your face. Nails should be clean and wear natural make-up and simple
accessories. Avoid overpowering perfume and cologne.
Think business appropriate, but with a few casual cues. You should look polished, stylish and neatly put together. Gauge
what others in the office are wearing.
Mix up shades. This attire allows you to get a bit more expressive.
Dress shoes may be exchanged for loafers, booties, or flats.
Dark jeans are often acceptable.
CASUAL is appropriate when explicitly mentioned.
BUSINESS CASUAL is the most common office dress code and is appropriate for most business functions, meetings
and other events when indicated. The emphasis is still on business, not casual, and should be a more relaxed version of
business professional. It may be appropriate for some interviews.
Business professional should imitate the look of a suit using separate pieces.
Ties, blazers, jackets and cardigans may be worn. Sweaters, blouses, button down shirts and polos are also appropriate.
Neatly pressed dark colored or khaki pants, skirts and dresses may be worn.
Heels, flats, booties/boots and loafers are appropriate. Open toed shoes are also considered acceptable.
40
In a business environment, be sure to keep your casual look polished and office appropriate.
Some companies encourage casual attire on Fridays.
Sweats, yoga pants and shorts are not appropriate in a business environment.
Tennis shoes (if worn) should be clean and in good condition.
41
Virginia Tech
Are You Career Ready?

Professional Competency Self-Assessment Tool
Take this self-assessment to see what professional competencies you need to develop and practice to be career ready and
experience workplace success. (see previous page for descriptions of competencies)
COMMUNICATION:
Need to Develop Currently DevelopingExcelling
Ways to develop this competency:

Develop and deliver a presentation for a class.
Check for understanding by asking clarifying questions.
Proofread on-line and written communication to avoid errors.
Goal for developing this competency: __________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
TEAMWORK AND INTERPERSONAL:

Collaborate with others on a class project where responsibility is shared and not divided.
Handle difficult conversations in person with respect.
Consider others perspectives before making a decision.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
LEADERSHIP:

Take on a leadership role in a group or organization.
Demonstrate initiative at your job/internship by taking on additional responsibilities.
Motivate team members with a positive attitude and leverage their strengths when delegating work.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CREATIVITY AND PROBLEM-SOLVING:

Develop an action plan with specific steps to solve a problem.
Brainstorm solutions to a problem before bringing it to a supervisor/professor.
Activate your mindread, do puzzles, write, etc.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
PROFESSIONALISM AND PRODUCTIVITY:

Use a planner or calendar to prioritize work/assignments and meet deadlines.
Reflect on a recent challenge and identify areas of growth and improvement for the future.
Review your social media through the eyes of a future employer and determine appropriateness.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE:

Attend an event on campus that encourages you to step outside your comfort zone.
Engage in conversation with individuals who have different perspectives than your own.
Participate in a study abroad or volunteer experience to broaden your horizons.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
43
Virginia Tech
College to Career
Tips on how to make the transition into the world of work.
10 Ways to Develop and
Practice Professionalism
1. Use your time productively at work. Focus on your

job responsibilities and avoid getting pulled into
social media, web browsing and phone activity while
on the clock.
2. Project a professional presence and dress
appropriately. A good rule of thumb is to dress in the
position you aspire to have.
3. Take the initiative. Ask for more projects to be
given to you or think of assignments that will meet
your organizations goals. You dont want to be
under-utilized.
4. Maintain effective work habits. Prioritize, plan and
manage your assignments and projects.

5. Manage your time efficiently. Establish priorities, set

goals and create action plans to meet deadlines.
6. Be accountable for your work and actions while

behaving ethically at all times.

7. Produce work and results that reflect a sense of pride

and professionalism, often exceeding expectations.
8. When you run into problems and obstacles take the

time to brainstorm a few solutions and alternatives
before you meet with your supervisor.
9. Be resilient. Develop coping skills to manage
setbacks and challenges with a positive and
constructive attitude.
The Resume Puzzle:

What Pieces Fit You?
Objective
Tips on How to Be Successful at

Your New Job or Internship
If you have prior experience or are seeking an advanced degree, you may prefer to use a Summary of
Qualifications or Profile rather than an objective. See Sample Career Objectives on page 47.
Prove yourself to be dependable and trusted early on

through consistency in your actions.
Provide in REVERSE Chronological order, starting with the most recent degree first. Make sure the name of our
university is correct. List locations for each institution and the Month and Year you graduated or expect to: BS,
Economics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA Expected Graduation May 2019
Follow the rules at all times. Read through your

employee manual (if there is one) and make sure you
understand all the policies and procedures.
Pay attention to office culture. Observe how others

behave, interact with others and communicate with
each other. Model those who do this well.
Attend all business functions and participate in office
events and traditions. For example, contribute to
the office pot luck and join in on office games and
activities.
Take your work and assignments seriously, even if it
seems like a menial task recognize how it plays into
the bigger picture of organizational goals.
Ask for feedback and use it. Make it easy for your
supervisor to give you constructive feedback because
this is how you will learn, grow and improve through
your experience.
Own up to your mistakes. Dont make excuses,
everyone makes mistakes and we all learn a lot from
our mistakes.
10. Practice professional on-line, in person and

interpersonal communication skills.
Education
Skills
Skills can be listed in several categories such as Computer Skills, Language Skills, Laboratory Skills, or other
areas. If you lack career-related experience, various skill sets can be shared. If you worked on projects in
classes that are relevant, add a Projects section to your resume.
Experience
Relevant Experience and Leadership Experience are key items employers like to see. Emphasize results and
accomplishments rather than sounding like a job description. Use numbers in your experience descriptions to
add impact.
Honors & Activities
Share academic or other honors you have received including scholarships or other awards. As you list
organizations no need to list the word member, but add the dates of your membership. Add dates, noting the
dates of your membership. Be sure to emphasize leadership roles you have taken.
Top 5 Tips for Applicant Tracking Systems
Emotional Intelligence is described as your ability to recognize and understand emotions in yourself
and others, and your ability to use this awareness to manage your behavior and relationships by
Bradberry and Greaves.
Applicant tracking systems are the computer systems

used by organizations to manage the flood of applications
they receive. The ATS will read your resume, and then rank
and score your qualifications vs. the job descriptions. Only
those applicants who receive high scores will get a call
for an interview. If you follow these formatting tips you will
greatly increase the likelihood that your resume will rise to
the top of the list.
The four skills that make up Emotional Intelligence are:

Self-awarenessSelf-managementSocial awarenessRelationship management
Top 5 Tips
Develop Your Emotional Intelligence
The development of your Emotional Intelligence skills can have a huge impact on your career success.
Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it.
Dennis Kimbro
44
Virginia Tech
1.
Do not use templates: Use a standard Word
document, and save in .doc format: File/Save As/
Word 97-2003. Not all ATS systems can read .docx,
PDF, RTF, and JPG formats.
2.Use simple formatting. Do not use headers
(including for contact information), footers,
templates, borders, lines, symbols, (bullet points
are fine) or shading.
3.
Customize each resume for the specific position
being sought using language from the job
description. One-size-fits-all does not work with
applicant tracking systems. Incorporate relevant,
targeted keywords and phrases for the position
being sought. Be specific i.e., Adobe Photoshop
instead of image-editing software).
4.
Use keywords and phrases in context. Incorporate
them into descriptive achievement-oriented bullet
points; do not just include them as a list of skills or
competencies.
5.
Edit carefully: The ATS will not recognize misspelled
words. And, if your resume survives the ATS screen,
it will next be reviewed by human beings so it must
be Eror error-free.
Source: careers.uic.edu
45
Virginia Tech
Resume Dos and Donts

DOS
Do stick to one page for your resume unless you have an advanced degree or several years
of experience. Your resume should be a concise and succinct document that summarizes
your background and experiences. However, a curriculum vitae can be used to help describe
expansive detail on research or publications, which can allow you to use multi-pages.
Additionally, federal job application resumes are expected to be longer than one page.
Do include the following: your full name, cell-phone number, email address, current and
permanent addresses.
Do include your major(s), minor(s), list your school(s) name (Virginia Tech) or Virginia
Polytechnic Institute and State University), city and state, and expected graduation date.
Virginia Tech
Sample Career Objectives

Accounting
Finance
Staff Accountant; special interest in auditing and tax

accounting.
Management Trainee; interested in working in

investment and commercial loans.
Seek position as Bank Branch Manager.
Agriculture
Broodmare Manager; supervise the breeding and care
of Arabian horses.
Agronomist; specializing in soil science and plant
propagation.
Quality Assurance Manager for commercial poultry
production company.
Natural Resources
Biology
Wildlife Biologist; interest in wildlife census and game

management.
Procurement Forester; emphasis in timber sales
management.
Human Resources
Do utilize bullet points to describe the skills and responsibilities you gained during the
experience. Additionally, do not forget to use present tense verbs for current positions and
past tense verbs for prior experiences.
Chemistry
Child/Adolescent Care worker in residential facility for

emotionally disturbed/disabled youth.
Retail Merchandise Buyer; with interest in clothing
and textile-related products.
Food and Beverage Hospitality Manager; interest in
hotel operations.
Chemical Technician; interest in wet chemical

analyses in environmental laboratory.
Management
Do include your other campus involvement. These could range from being a team captain for
the Big Event, or playing for the club soccer team. Be sure to include any positions you have
held, as well as the dates you have been a part of the organization.
Communications
Do be sure to order your resume in reverse chronological order, meaning from most recent to
least recent in regards to dates.
Laboratory Research Assistant; emphasis on

pathology, immunology, and virology.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative.
Production Supervisor; specific interests in production

scheduling and inventory control.
Management Trainee leading to retail store
management.
Assistant Property Management; interest in
retirement communities.
Do use italics, bold and underlining to emphasize different points on your resume. For
example, bolding your name, major, or titles of significant experiences you have held.
Writer/Editor; with interest in educational

publications/materials.
Public Relations Assistant; particular interest in
copywriting and promoting media events for nonprofit
organizations.
Do be sure to stay consistent with punctuation and formatting throughout the resume.
Computer Science
Systems Analyst.
Market Researcher; emphasis in consumer goods and

services.
Do utilize as much white space as you can on the document. You can go down to 10 point font
if needed, as well as 0.5 margins on each side.
Design
Political Science
Architect Intern; interest in historical restoration and

urban renewal projects.
Graphic Designer; emphasis in publication design and
production control.
Landscape Architect; interest in landscape design for
zoos, parks, and other outdoor facilities.
Legislative Aide; special interest in constituent claims

and concerns.
Lobbyist; interest in environmental legislation.
DONTS
Dont include references on a resume. A reference list should be on a separate document and
would be asked for by your inquiring employer. See page 63.
Dont use fonts that are difficult to read. Be sure to stick to fonts like Times New Roman,
Cambria or Georgia that are easy to read.
Dont simply list your duties under experiences. You want to utilize bullet points to emphasize
the skills you gained by working and key accomplishments.
Dont list soft skills, which may include communication, organization, and listening skills.
You would want to include these soft skills through explanation in your bullet points. You could
list language skills and technical skills, which would include computer programs or laboratory
procedures.
Dont use the same resume for every application. You want to tailor your resume per
application and edit based on what you are applying for.
46
Education
Secondary Social Studies/History teacher with
additional interest in coaching volleyball and/or
baseball.
Seek a teaching position in a corporate-owned
pre-school.
Marketing
Psychology/Sociology
Probation Officer.
Market Researcher; interest in survey design and
evaluation.
Statistics
Desire an actuarial position in an insurance company.
Statistician; emphasis in survey planning and
analysis.
Engineering
Electrical Engineer; interest in fiber optics and optical
fiber transmission applications.
Mechanical Engineer; particular interest in the areas
of power production and power systems.
47
Virginia Tech
Power Skills for Your Resume
Power Skills for Your Resume
Working With PEOPLE
Working With IDEAS
Administration
monitor
track
assess
coordinate
organize
requisition
access
receive
process
serve
furnish
Management/
Supervision
coordinate
facilitate
plan
schedule
delegate
mediate
evaluate
strategize
develop
listen
consult
monitor
Teaching
educate
tutor
stimulate
inform
instruct
facilitate
awaken
explore
advise
counsel
entertain
amuse
Performing
create
present
play
interpret
act
sing
dance
perform
model
read
inspire
Counseling/Healing
listen
sense
intuit
assess
analyze
assist
align
coordinate
understand
inform
facilitate
help
Persuading
present
articulate
clarify
challenge
negotiate
inquire
reason
influence
convince
arbitrate
mediate
reconcile
Public Relations
assess
prepare
coordinate
present
negotiate
publicize
strengthen
promote
handle
participate
facilitate
troubleshoot
Selling
inform
educate
persuade
provide
assist
serve
trade
vend
handle
present
sell
convince
Human Resources
assess
analyze
recruit
survey
screen
interview
select
train
mediate
appraise
coordinate
align
Consulting
troubleshoot
problem solve
assess
assist
arrange
guide
counsel
survey
serve
contribute
motivate
train
Leadership
create
lead
encourage
manage
organize
compare
inspire
represent
govern
direct
advise
Accounting
record
assess
audit
prepare
maintain
forecast
calculate
estimate
figure
appraise
examine
measure
verify
Finance
analyze
invest
budget
inventory
evaluate
appraise
construct
develop
acquire
deploy
manage
project
Analysis
assess
observe
review
dissect
interpret
discern
conceptualize
discover
infer
illuminate
clarify
quantify
qualify
conclude
Information
appraise
analyze
inventory
structure
design
categorize
document
process
manage
program
link
coordinate
organize
Design
organize
explore
formulate
sketch
draw
draft
layout
create
plan
style
pattern
build
display
Mechanical
analyze
design
construct
craft
troubleshoot
create
engineer
repair
manipulate
align
coordinate
balance
Innovating
create
modify
change
upgrade
improve
design
activate
restructure
establish
stimulate
implement
transform
Selling
inform
educate
persuade
provide
assist
serve
trade
vend
handle
present
sell
convince
Program
Development
analyze
design
construct
develop
prepare
strategize
coordinate
formulate
recommend
persuade
implement
monitor
POWER VERB (SKILLS) +

DEMONSTRATED ACCOMPLISHMENT/
CONTRIBUTION
Example: Answered phones.
Editing
review
analyze
check
compare
comment
correct
rewrite
revise
rework
amend
improve
initiate
investigate
advise
read
Organizing/
Logistics
classify
organize
assist
maintain
liaison
support
arrange
systematize
schedule
coordinate
streamline
simplify
Working With THINGS

Craft/Artisan
design
create
build
entertain
perform
draw
render
illustrate
compose
construct
conceive
choreograph
Language
translate
interpret
lecture
converse
negotiate
compare
understand
comprehend
proficiency
fluency
teach
tutor
Resume Bullet Formula
Working With DATA

Research &
Development
identify
evaluate
review
assess
compare
analyze
critique
explain
prepare
recommend
conclude
determine
Virginia Tech
Technical
conceptualize
design
troubleshoot
inspect
locate
edit
analyze
implement
construct
modify
operate
Marketing
review
assess
survey
analyze
quantify
identify
announce
promote
advertise
advance
boost
improve
Writing
conceive
construct
craft
integrate
interpret
capture
abstract
express
inform
summarize
conclude
Investigating
pursue
interrogate
question
analyze
intuit
seek
search
probe
examine
explore
Transferable Skills
Critical Thinking
Problem Solving
Decision Making
Active Listening
Technical Skills
Communication Skills (Oral and Written)
1. Skill: communication skills
Interpersonal Skills
2.
Structure: I learned communication skills while
answering phones.
Detail and Follow-Through
3.
Verb: Developed communication skills while
answering phones
Leadership/ Teamwork
4.
Clarify: Developed communication skills addressing
up to 50 customer billing concerns per shift by phone
Taking Initiative
Instructing/ Guiding/ Mentoring
Planning and Management
Organizational Skills
Consider the following actions:
Analytical/ Evaluative Skills
Purpose
Creativity
Initiated a team of five students to work after hours to

implement marketing demos.
Decision-Making
Method
Motivating/ Persuading Others
Supervision
Created engaging and interactive lesson plans by

using Prezi and PowerPoint.
Result
Organized extensive aircraft article database creating
easy research and file access.
This list is continued on the next page.
48
49
50
B.S., General Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State
University, Blacksburg, VA expected graduation May 20XX
Certified Ski Instructor, Wisp Resort, Deep Creek, MD
Nov. 20XX Apr. 20XX
Certified Ski Instructor, Wisp Resort, Deep Creek, MD
Nov. 20XX Apr. 20XX
Ski Instructor, Wisp Resort, Deep Creek, MD
Nov. 20XX Apr. 20XX
Computer
Windows 7
MATLAB
Microsoft Office 2008 (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access)
Soccer 4 years
Team Co-Captain 2 years
Track 4 years
Team Captain 3 years
Envirothon 3 years
Peer Tutoring 2 years
Planned and constructed rain garden at local elementary school
Youth soccer referee
Helped construct playground for youth in community
Eagle Scout
Order of the Arrow Boy Scouts National Honor Society
National Merit Commended Student
Maryland Distinguished Scholar Honorable Mention
National Honor Society 2 years
Summer 20XX
EDUCATION
WORK
EXPERIENCE
SKILLS
ACTIVITIES
HONORS/
AWARDS
AVAILABILITY
AutoCAD/Mechanical Desktop
MatLab
MiniTab
Mathematica
COMPUTER
SKILLS

Server, Family Restaurant, Frederick, MD, 20XX-20XX, High school & summers
Trained on and used excellent customer service practices in fast-paced work
environment.
Participated in corporate program to increase sales; achieved all sales
goals.
Worked 40 or more hours per week in summer; worked 15 hours per week
during school year.
Student Engineers Council (SEC), Membership Committee Chair, 20XX-20XX
Symphonic Band, Virginia Tech, 20XX-present
Big Brother, Big Sister Program, 20XX-20XX
High School Varsity Volleyball Team, 20XX-20XX
High School Symphonic Band, 20XX-20XX
Maryland Distinguished Scholar, Honorable Mention, 20XX
Scholar Athlete Award, 20XX-20XX
Merit Award, Honorable Mention, 20XX Media Festival, Photography Division
ACTIVITIES

HONORS


Includes high school activities, because this student is a sophomore; by junior year, generally
remove high school activities unless they are rare or show a long track record of interest or
involvement in your chosen field.
Availability is included, because this is for a co-op positionemployers wont automatically know
when you can or could start workso tell them.
When you dont have career-related experienceyetyour other jobs show employers things
like your work ethic and customer service experiencequalities important to all work settings.
Windows 7
MATLAB
Microsoft Office 2008 (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access)
Certified Ski Instructor, Wisp Resort, Deep Creek, MD Seasonal, 20XX-20XX
Eagle Scout Project

Planned and constructed rain garden at local elementary school
Researched proper plants and soil for garden
Calculated volume of run-off from surrounding area and required area of
garden
Wrote and distributed information to school informing them of the
features and benefits of a rain garden
Harold T. Smith Scholarship

National finalist, Hallmark Award Art Competition
Deans List (two semesters)

Governors State Scholarship
Waiter, Backstreets, Blacksburg, VA September 20XX - present (during college)

Sales Clerk, Homeline Department Store, Dover, DE Summer 20XX
Laborer, Walt Construction, Dover, DE Summers 20XX & 20XX
AWARDS & HONORS
OTHER WORK EXPERIENCE
Format Details:
Margins:
.5 top and
bottom, and
.8 on sides.
Font is
Arial 11
Resident Assistant, Residential and Dining Programs, Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA, September 20XX - present
- Develop programs for, advise, and manage 60 residents
- Enforce residence hall policies
- Serve as a liaison between residents and the student affairs administration

Panel Member, Honor Court System, Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA, September 20XX - present

- Serve as a student representative on the University Judicial Panel

- Consider alleged violations of the honor system to determine guilt or
innocence

Hotline Assistant, (Volunteer), RAFT Community Crisis Center

Blacksburg, VA, January 20XX - present

- Assist, advise, and refer individuals on issues related to personal needs

- Train six volunteers in counseling techniques and procedures

- Coordinate personnel scheduling
RELATED EMPLOYMENT AND COLLEGE ACTIVITIES
Content Features:
Relevant college
activities detailed like
employment.
Experience includes
volunteer work
Other, less relevant
employment separated
and not detailed.
Relevant courses listed
Related Courses
Deviant Behavior
Sociology of Law
Families Under Stress
The Family in the Ecosystem

Adolescence and Early Childhood
Sociology of Corrections
Bachelor of Arts, Sociology; Minor: Human Development, expected August 20XX

GPA: 3.1 Earned 40% of college expenses through summer and part-time work
EDUCATION
Internship or summer job in the area of criminal justice and law; particular
interest in working with juvenile delinquents
OBJECTIVE
Address: (through May 15, 2015)

2343 Blankinship Road
(540) 555-0000
Email: cpgim@vt.edu
Permanent Address:
49303 Rolling Road
Bloomdale, IL 54321
Summer 20XX
AVAILABILITY
CHRISTOPHER P. GIMBLE
Eagle Scout
Order of the Arrow Boy Scouts National Honor Society
National Merit Commended Student
Maryland Distinguished Scholar Honorable Mention
National Honor Society 20XX-20XX
HONORS/
AWARDS

ACTIVITIES
Galileo Engineering Residential Learning Community, 20XX - present

Soccer 20XX-20XX
Team Co-Captain 20XX-20XX

Track 20XX-20XX
Team Captain 20XX-20XX

Peer Tutoring 20XX-20XX

Youth soccer referee

Helped construct playground for youth in community
COMPUTER
SKILLS

WORK
EXPERIENCE
RELATED
EXPERIENCE Envirothon, Rocky Gap State Park, Flintstone, MD - 20XX-20XX

One day competition sponsored by the Department of Natural Resources
and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service

Topics included: Soil, Fish and Water, Wildlife, and Forestry
AVAILABILITY January 20XX preferred; also available August 20XX
Self-Employed, Lawncare Business, Frederick, MD Summer 20XX

Solicited business through cold calls and visits.
Increased customer base through referrals for quality work.
Performed all necessary equipment maintenance and repairs.
Covered all expenses and yielded net profit of $4,000.
To obtain an internship with an environmental agency.
Permanent Address:
3584 Oakview Lane
Lavale, MD 21502
EDUCATION B.S., General Engineering, expected graduation May 20XX


High school diploma, June 20XX

Allegany High School, Cumberland, MD
OBJECTIVE
Current Address:
428 Lee Hall, Virginia Tech
(540) 232-1234
jramirez@vt.edu
Juan Ramirez
After
EXPERIENCE Waiter, Boudreauxs, Blackburg, VA Fall 20XX-present

Work 20 hours per week to help fund college education.
skills listed in
columns are
easier to read
than strings
of words with
commas.
B.S. Mechanical Engineering, Expected graduation as a coop: May 20XX

Minor: Statistics
GPA: 2.8/4.0
Employers skim
Earning and financing 50% of college education and expenses
resumes fast:
EDUCATION

C++
Visual Basic
MS Office Suite
MS PowerPoint
Cooperative Education position related to manufacturing
Permanent Address:
1234 Forest Lane
Frederick, MD 20872
OBJECTIVE
Current Address:
115 Slusher Hall, Virginia Tech
(540) 232-3456
dwsilva@vt.edu
Danielle W. Silva
Key items to consider when revising this resume:

It is important to keep your objective brief and to the point. Let the employer
know exactly what you are looking for (i.e., full-time employment and in what
field). Sometimes it is relevant to tailor your objective to a specific company.
Highlight accomplishments related to your objective. In this example the focus
is on being a ski instructor instead of the activities that show knowledge of and
interest in environmental issues.
To avoid having the name of the university wrap onto a second line, move the
graduation date beside the degree and begin the university name on the second line.
Turn off the table grid lines so that they wont print. (You will still see them on
your computer screen.)
To obtain an internship that will enable me to further enhance my skills

and become a stronger professional.
Permanent Address:
3584 Oakview Lane
Lavale, MD 21502
OBJECTIVE
Current Address:
428 Lee Hall, Virginia Tech
(540) 232-1234
jramirez@vt.edu
Juan Ramirez
Many students who are writing a resume for the first time feel as though they have
nothing relevant to put on the paper. This feeling may be especially true for freshmen
who are just beginning their college careers. Take a look at the before and after resume
samples below to see how one student, with the help of a Career Advisor in Career and
Professional Development, revised his resume to demonstrate skills and experiences
gained through activities.
Resume Makeover
Before
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
51
52
Marketing/Sales/Promotion
Grossed $15,000 in three months with summer painting business.
Raised $600 in advertising space for fraternity folder project.
Raised $400 for fraternity sponsored car show.
Cold canvassed community for potential clients.
Created informational brochure for apartment leasing company.
Developed advertising campaign for class project.
Management/Training/Organizational Ability
Managed daily activities of own painting business including renting/purchasing
equipment and supplies, hiring assistants, budgeting, payroll.
Arranged client contracts for painting business.
Assisted in organizing talent show and benefit auction for Semester at Sea.
Coordinated sales presentation strategy for fraternity car show and trained others in sales
techniques.
Trained new restaurant employees.
Aided in refurbishing and renovating a restaurant.
Performed restaurant duties ranging from busboy to night manager.
Communications/Language/Creative Projects
Created multimedia presentation using slides, music, and narration to brief incoming Virginia
Tech students during orientation.
Developed sales presentations and assisted with advertising campaigns including radio
spots, newspaper ads, billboards, posters, brochures.
Designed and distributed flyers for painting business.
Traveled around the world with Semester at Sea and used conversational Spanish skills.
Self-Employed, (Partnership) Sunrise Painters, Reston, VA Summer 20XX
Wait Staff, Leonards of Washington, Washington, DC Summers 20XX, 20XX, 20XX
Pi Sigma Epsilon, National professional fraternity in marketing, sales management and selling
Summer Orientation Leader, 20XX
Theater Arts, Virginia Tech
Several roles in: The Bride, The Monster and Steven, If Men Played Cards as Women.
SKILLS

WORK
EXPERIENCE
ACTIVITIES

Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Word
Microsoft PowerPoint
Techniques for Bacterial Identification

Tests for Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria
Dilutions
Aseptic Technique
Methods for Nematode Staining
Maintenance of Laboratory Notebooks
Immunology
Insect Biology
Medical and Veterinarian Entomology
Insect Pest Management
Maintenance Administration, Cuyahoga Foods, Inc., Bridgewater, VA, Summer 20XX

Maintained and updated computer cataloguing of machine parts room.
Ordered, received, and distributed valuable machine parts and supplies.
Prepared purchase orders for cost accounting.
Engineering Technician, Naval Air Systems Command, Arlington, VA, Summer 20XX
Developed Close Air Support Effectiveness math model using FORTRAN.
Perdue Farms Inc., National Scholarship
Society of Manufacturing Engineers
Marching Virginians & Metro Pep Band

AWARDS &
ACTIVITIES

Permanent address:
428 Logan Circle
Annapolis, MD 20000
Languages: C++, JAVA, HTML

Software: Windows 7, MS Office Suite, Publisher, Dreamweaver
Fluent in Spanish
Traveled in Europe; used conversational French
Student Computer Assistant, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
September 20XX present (10 hours/week)
Assist students with computer problems; by phone and in
residence halls.
Trouble shoot hardware and software problems.
Make recommendations for hardware upgrades.
Minor installation and repair.
Writer / Editor, Collegiate Times,
Virginia Tech Student Newspaper, 2011-Present
Editor of Events Page, 20XX present.
Write articles on campus topics weekly.
Write book reviews.
Schedule interviews with visiting personalities, campus leaders and
members of the university administration; arrange photo shoots.
New River Valley Cycling Club, 20XX-present
Habitat for Humanity Volunteer, 20XX-present
Special Olympics Volunteer, 20XX, 20XX, 20XX
Deans List, last 4 completed semesters: Fall 20XX - Spring 20XX
Computer Skills

Language Skills

Technical
Experience

Writing
Experience

Activities & Awards

Computer Science:
Computers for Business
Operating System Tools
Introduction to Programming in C
Object-Oriented Software Design
Human Computer Interaction
Related Courses


Coursework outside the major shows how this student is qualified for the career objective.
Experience can be a student activityrelated to and supports the objective in this example.
6 key items bolded (in addition to headings)select those that best support objective.
Font = Century Gothic 11 Margins = .7
Table used to simplify formatting only; not to print. Set borders to be invisible on print document:
Format > Borders and Shading > Borders = None.
English / Communication:
Business Writing
Technical Writing
Journalistic Writing
Reporting
Literary Criticism
B.S., English with Spanish Minor, May 20XX

15 hours in Computer Science
Major GPA: 3.6/4.0 Overall GPA: 2.8/4.0
Education

Objective Position utilizing writing and computer skills; special interests in

technical writing and developing training materials for computer use
Current address:
279 Progress Street
(540) 961-9876
Pat E. Walsh
pwalsh@vt.edu

Skills not limited to computer skills.

Course project experience detailed just like other work or internship
experience.

Table used to format only borders are set to be invisible on the print
document.
Font = Arial 11; margins at least .5 all sides.
Summer Engineering Intern, Perkins Company, Inc., Cleveland, OH, Summer 20XX
Application of CAD skills to both office layout and curtain wall analysis.
Compiled ANSI structural leading programs using computer knowledge.
Assisted applications engineers in preparing stamped structural calculations.
Project Manager for Senior Design Team, Omega Window Co., Inc., Salem, VA
Fall 20XX Spring 20XX
Analysis and evaluation of current layout of the window fabrication facility.
Collection and interpretation of materials handling and flow data.
Developing alternative facility layouts to reduce materials handling.
Opt Quest
SAS
ServiceModel
Storm
Visual BASIC
EXPERIENCE

COURSE
PROJECT

Crystal Ball
FORTRAN
MS Excel
MS Word
MS Project
Inventory Control
Statistics
Leadership
Alpha Chi Omega Womens Fraternity, 20XX-present
Experience
Senior Class Representative to the Chapter Relations and Standards Board

Virginia Tech Tae Kwon Do Club
Research
Lab Support Technician
Experience
International Research and Development, Virginia Tech
June 20XX present

Conduct research on spores of Metarhizium anisopliae for the control of locusts in
Features of this
SubSaharan Africa.
resume:
Evaluate production processes utilizing hemacytometer and CFU counts.

LabSkills

Work on methods to decrease water activity as to enhance germination at lower
relevant to objective.
humidities.

Upper level
courses

Assist in bioassays to determine the insects mortality and virulence of the insect
(DONT list basic
pathogen.
courses obviously
taken because
of your Laboratory Assistant

major).
Entomology Department, Virginia Tech
May August 20XX

Use table
(shown

Researched the development and fecundity of Steinernema carpocapsae
here) only for
nematodes when exposed to the bacterium Xenorhabdus nematophilus using in vitro
formatting. On your
techniques.

resume,
set Format >
Assisted in an experiment to determine the response of plant pathogenic
Borders and Shading
nematodes to X. nematophilus.

> Borders
= None.

Applied predatory nematodes for the control of the Tomato Root Knot nematode.

Font = Arial
10

Aided in a pesticide trial for the control of Japanese beetle grubs.
Margins = .7

Undergraduate Research

Entomology Department, Virginia Tech
January May 20XX

Worked to develop a biopesticide for the control of a plant pathogenic nematode
using the bacteria Xenorhabdus bovienii.

Responsible for the general set-up and management of experiments as well as the
collection and analysis of data.
Gram Stain Procedure

Cultured Bacterial and Fungal Colonies

Media Preparation

pH Calibration

Potentiometric Calibration

Calorimetry
Biological Statistics
Microbial Genetics
Food Microbiology
Pathogenic Bacteriology
Computer Skills:
Human Factors
Plant Layout
AutoCAD
Ampl
Arena/ProModel Simulation
BlocPlan
C++
Cost Analysis
Materials Handling
Knowledge gained through ISE project work includes:
B.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, August 20XX

Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
GPA: In-major: 3.1/4.0 Overall: 2.68/4.0
Deans List: Fall 20XX, Spring 20XX
Earned and financed 70% of college and living expenses
SKILLS
EDUCATION

OBJECTIVE Industrial engineer; interests in manufacturing, cost analysis, and

occupational safety
Address after August 15, 2008:

2107 Calvin Street
Manassas, VA 22221
MORGAN ELIZABETH NEILSON

Current address:
5634 University City Blvd., Apt. 56B
(540) 961-6666
meneilson@vt.edu
Computer

Windows 2008 NT
Skills
Mathematica

Lab Skills

Coursework

Bachelor of Science in Biology, May 20XX

Minor in Chemistry, emphases in Microbiology and Entomology
GPA: 2.9/4.0
Education

Laboratory position utilizing scientific research and laboratory skills
Objective
College address:
442 E. Roanoke St., Apt J
(540) 961-3395
Elizabeth McWellenemcwellen@vt.edu
Permanent address:
5683 Alice Drive
Richmond, VA 23060
B.A., Communication Studies, Public Relations, Marketing Minor, December 20XX

Semester at Sea, Spring 20XX
GPA: In-major: 3.3./4.0 Overall: 2.6/4.0
Earned 50% of educational expenses
EDUCATION

Sales management trainee position; goal to lead and train a sales staff
(540) 555-2121
College address: 600 Jackson St., Apt. C, Blacksburg, VA 24060

Home address: 4156 Hawthorne Circle, Reston, VA 12345
OBJECTIVE
Email: takelly@vt.edu
Taylor A. Kelly

n
Table used to format; SET BORDERS TO BE INVISIBLE ON ACTUAL RESUME: Format >

Borders and Shading > Borders = None.
n
Skills format: skills from work, fraternity, course projects, semester at sea, and activities are grouped
and listed to support objective.
n
Margins = .7 Font = Arial 10 (Okay to fit in essential information, but dont go smaller.)
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
53
54
(540) 232-0000
(540) 230-1111
jrobs09@vt.edu
540-421-3744
RELATED COURSES
Advanced Developmental Psychology
Psychology of Trauma
Juvenile Delinquency
Social Inequality
Alpha Kappa Delta, International Sociology Honor Society All-ACC Second Team, 20XX
ESPNs the Magazine Academic All-District Team, 20XX
NFCA Second Team All-Northeast, 20XX
All-ACC Second Team Academic Team, 20XX
VaSID All-State Second Team, 20XX
Computer: C++, MATLAB, and LabVIEW

Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote
Skills

Features of this resume: Unsure if you should mention other schools under your Education information? If
you went to a different school for a year or more, it is recommended that you list t he school as part of your
education. List the college/university, city and state where the school is located and the dates you attended.
Cook, Pizza Hut, Inc.; Clifton, Colorado 20XX-20XX

ACTIVITIES

Server, Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill; Roanoke, Virginia 20XX-20XX
Attended to restaurant customers drink and food orders,
Address customer complaints,
Cleaning and maintenance of dining room and server stations
Experience

Carpenters Assistant, Steves Construction LLC; Grand Junction,
Colorado 20XX-20XX

Built new homes, remodels, and additions to existing homes foundation,
framing, drywall, interior/exterior finishing, paint, roofing, shelving,
windows, and door installation
Vibrations, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Electrical Theory, Heat Transfer

System Dynamics, Mechanical Design and Mechanics of Deformable Bodies
Relevant
Courses

Virginia Western Community College, Roanoke, VA

Associate of Science, Engineering, May 20XX

Associate of Science, Science - Mathematics Specialization, May 20XX
Honors: Summa Cum Laude

GPA: 4.0/4.0
Education Virginia Tech, College of Engineering, Blacksburg, VA

Bachelors of Science, Mechanical Engineering, expected May 20XX

Honors: Deans List All Semesters

GPA: 3.81/4.0
Objective Engineering student seeking an internship position with a progressive thinking

company requiring engineering knowledge and skills.
Ima Hokie
2345 Baker Street
540-239-9999
hireme@vt.edu
Transfer Student Sample
AWARDS AND ACTIVITIES

Outstanding Leadership & Service Award, African Students Association, February 20XX

Certificate of Achievement, U.S. Committee for UNICEF, fall 20XX

President 20XX-XX, Secretary 20XX-20XX, Virginia Tech African Students Association

Captain and Manager 20XX-20XX, San George Intramural Soccer Team

Researcher, Blacksburg, VA, December 20XX August 20XX

Agricultural & Applied Economics Department, Virginia Polytechnic

Institute & State University

Examined the effects of communication and transport infrastructures on
economic development; reviewed literature and collected relevant data
and information.

Performed empirical examination using econometric methods on SAS JM.

Research Assistant, Blacksburg, VA, January 20XX July 20XX

Office of Institutional Research and Development, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State
University

Designed a framework for assessing economic impact of USAID-funded
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.

Performed economic (Benefit-Cost Analysis) and statistical analysis of IPM programs
using database-based computer program called DREAM.

Traveled to both sites and collected primary and secondary data and information.

Examined the transferability of IPM technologies and their adoption beyond the
primary sites using spatial modeling within a framework of geographic information
system (GIS) technology.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

Freelance Web Consultant, Blacksburg, VA, May 20XX present

AGECON.COM | AFRICOMP.COM | IFAF.NET | GUAYLA.COM

Generate business leads and design complete web solutions for clients.

Formulate e-strategic guidance and conceptual consulting.

Provide interface design; content research, development, and synthesis.

Perform the evaluation, planning, development, deployment and ongoing use of
web-based mechanisms and information.

Build and maintain economic and spatial database.
COMPUTER SKILLS

Platforms: Windows 7, Vista, XP/server 2009, 2004

Software: GIS (ArcView, ArcIMS, ARC/INFO, BusinessMAP Pro, ATLAS GIS, ACT 1.25),
Microsoft Office Suite, MINITAB, Mathematica, STATA, SAS, SAS JMP, DREAM, Adobe
InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat.

Programming: C, C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, Perl, PHP, Python, Ruby, and SQL
Feature of this
resume:

Summary of
qualifications
can be used
when you have
professional
experience.
Job title and
employer
emphasized with
bold font
1105 New Lott Drive

540-555-4321
vandeveer@vt.edu
EDUCATION M.S. Applied Economics, May 20XX GPA: 3.8/4.0

Thesis: Framework for Economic Impact Assessment of IPM-CRSP:
a GIS application

B.A. Economics, Minor: Chemistry, July 20XX GPA: 3.0/4.0

Specialization: Macroeconomics & Finance
Vrginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

Three years experience in economic & financial
management analysis

Web-based coordination of business & e-commerce strategy

Statistical, spatial, and econometric modeling and analysis

Database management
OBJECTIVE Business financial analyst position specializing in economics
Thomas Vandeveer
VOLUNTEER Missionary, Mission trips to Africa and Brazil, Summers 20XX-20XX

EXPERIENCE Worked with people in urban and rural areas without homes and in impoverished conditions by
giving them my time, a warm meal and shelter if they needed it. Helped serve them in mind,
body and spirit while encouraging people to empower themselves in their conditions.

Helped start a hospital in the village town of Kalomo, Zambia. Worked in orphanages with
HIV-positive children and did many activities to build people up in their communities by giving
them the tools needed to enact change.

Builder, Mission trips to Mississippi, Winters 20XX-20XX

Relay for Life, 20XX-20XX

Appointed Team Captain, 20XX-20XX
RELATED Volunteer, Raft Crisis Hotline, Blacksburg, VA, June 20XX - present
EXPERIENCE Gain knowledge on suicide prevention and crisis intervention, how to develop empathy skills
and provide referrals to other services to callers.

Have currently worked over 320 hours on the phone lines dealing with crisis and empathy
situations while confidently answering any call with the callers best interests in mind.

Assistant, Virginia Department of Social Services, Harrisonburg, VA, Summers and Breaks
20XX-20XX

Worked with the Foster Care unit doing transportation of children, filing and paperwork.

Learned the public service system protocols and how Foster Care is run through the State of
Virginia.
LEADERSHIP/ Virginia Tech Varsity Softball, 20XX-20XX
DIVISION 1
Competed in the Womens College World Series, 20XX
ATHLETIC
Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), 20XX-20XX
EXPERIENCE Community Outreach Chairman, 20XX-20XX

Elected member to represent the softball team to discuss student-athlete issues and promote
open communication between varsity sports teams, coaches and faculty in the athletic
department as well as the Virginia Tech community.

Learned how to help coordinate canned food drives, Relay for Life and organizing fundraising
events.

Athletes in Action, 20XX-20XX

Servant Team, 20XX-present

Conduct one-on-one spiritual counseling with younger student-athletes; leading them
emotionally while being an outlet and a liaison for them in the Virginia Tech athletic
community.

Learn how to approach and help people who were struggling emotionally, physically and/or
spiritually so they can best achieve their goals in their respective sports.
Abnormal Psychology
Social Research Methods
B.S. in Sociology and Psychology, May 20XX

Overall GPA: 3.6; Sociology GPA: 3.7; Psychology GPA: 3.9
EDUCATION

OBJECTIVE Entry level position in Human Resources, specific interest in training and leadership development
700 Fairfax Road, Apt. A4

Jennifer L. Roberts
Student Athlete Sample
Honors
20XX Virginia Cattlemens Association Scholarship Recipient
Miss Virginia Farm Bureau-Ambassador for Agriculture 20XX 1st Runner-up
Residential Leadership Community-Pamplin Leadership Award
Leadership Experience

Alpha Chi Omega, 20XX - present
Vice President - Chapter Relations and Standards 20XX-20XX
Spring 2011 Outstanding New Member
Community Service, fundraising, sisterhood and leadership activities
Risk Management Committee
Help with writing grants for the further promotion of our philanthropic activities

Student Alumni Associates, 20XX - present
Virginia Tech Reunion Liaison
Public Relations Committee
Pep Rallies, College Homecomings and Reunions

Leadership Workshops

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Ambassador, 20XX - present

President- 20XX-20XX
Chairman of Education Committee; editor of college newsletter
Volunteer in the Developmental Department
Liaison between alumni and prospective students to the college

Dairy Club, 20XX - present
20XX Chairman, Womens Basketball Milkshake Sales
Recruit prospective students to the Dairy Science Program
Volunteer, Dairy Youth Programs

Team in Training, 20XX - 20XX
Raised over $2,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
Trained and ran a Half Marathon in September 20XX.
Work Experience

Office Assistant, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Academic Programs, January 20XX-Present,

Blacksburg, VA
File paperwork, assist Dean on student projects, provide telephone assistance, and answer
questions of prospective and current students.

Orientation Leader, Virginia Tech, July 20XX. Blacksburg, VA
Chosen out of 400 students to be one of thirty leaders, served as liaison between the incoming
freshman and the University, made presentations to students and parents.

Poultry Lab and Research Assistant, Animal and Poultry Sciences August 20XX-August 20XX,
Blacksburg, VA
Assist with lab procedures; help with collection days at barns, provide telephone assistance,
handle paperwork and assist with inventory.
Education

B.S. Animal and Poultry Sciences and Dairy Science, expected May 20XX,

Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA GPA: 3.23/4.0
Objective

To obtain a public relations internship with an Agriculture organization.
College Address: 209 SPH-A, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060

Home Address: 865 Main Street, Saltville, Virginia 24370
Amber D. Williams amber.williams@vt.edu
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
55
Study Abroad Experience, Costa Rica and Nicaragua, January 20XX

Study Abroad Participant
Developed understanding of tropical horticulture by effectively communicating with
professors, fellow study abroad students, and local citizens
Study Abroad, Monteverde, Costa Rica, August 20XX December 20XX
Study Abroad Participant
Conducted a botany research project to define Passiflora spp. allocation of resources in
metabolite defenses and presented results to the local scientific community at a symposium
Took intensive coursework in tropical biology, ecology, conservation, ecosystem services,
botany, Costa Rican culture and Spanish language in locations across Costa Rica
English: native language
Spanish: intermediate (speaking, reading); basic (writing)
Horticulture Club at Virginia Tech, 20XX-Present
Event Coordinator
Create and manage events to foster, promote, and encourage closer professional and social
relationships between the faculty, students, and horticulture community.
Promote horticultural interest within Virginia Tech, the community, the Commonwealth of
Virginia, and globally
Intercultural Understanding Club at Virginia Tech, 20XX-Present
Improve interactions in the university community by bridging the dialogue gap among
members of different cultures in the form of conferences, panels, art, performances as well
as outings.
Habitat for Humanity Volunteer, 20XX-present
Help Save The Next Girl at VT (HSTNGatVT), 20XX-Present
Alpha Zeta, Virginia Tech, 20XX-20XX
Professional, service, and honorary fraternity for men and women in the College of
Agriculture and Life Sciences and the College of Natural Resources at Virginia Tech.
LANGUAGE
SKILLS
CAMPUS
INVOLVMENT


Design resumes are appropriate where the resume showcases a skill that is relevant to a position for
such majors as Art, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Packaging Design, among others.
Design Resume

International Experience and Coursework sections
E-Portfolio section to showcase course and work projects
Campus Involvement section with leadership position bullet details
International Dairy Judging Competition, Edinburgh, Scotland, June 20XX

Participant June 20xx
Gained comprehensive knowledge of worldwide dairy trade by representing the United
States at the Royal Highland Dairy Show
INTERNATIONAL
EXPERIENCE

The Global Economy and World Politics

Environmental Law
Bachelor of Science, Environmental Horticulture, May 20XX

Minor in International Agriculture
GPA: 3.4/4.0 Deans List 5 semesters
INTERNATIONAL International Agriculture

COURSEWORK Development and Trade

World Crops and Cropping Systems
EDUCATION

OBJECTIVE Position as an environmental horticulturist applying my cross-cultural plant knowledge and

experience
College address: 315 SW Clay Street, Apt. 10, Blacksburg, VA 24060

Permanent address: 1240 Tahoe Court, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
HAYDEN BILLINGS(540) 383-5679hbillings@vt.edu
International Experience
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
57
58
B.A., English, May 20XX
James Madison University (JMU), Harrisonburg, Virginia
GPA 3.75
Earned and financed 80% of college and living expenses
English Education 6-12
Student Teacher, January May 20XX

James Madison Middle School, Roanoke City Schools, Roanoke, Virginia
Taught 8th grade Language Arts during which students were
presented with poetry, drama and young adult novel units.
Co-taught and extensively observed 8th grade American Studies classes.
Modified assignments for students at different ability levels.
School population is diverse.
Conducted teacher research on improving grammar and mechanical skills through the
process model of writing.

LICENSURE
TEACHING
EXPERIENCE

Volunteer, June 20XX present

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of New Roanoke Valley, Roanoke, Virginia
Develop weekly educational, social, and cultural activities for 4th grade Little Sister.
Act as a role model and mentor.
Assistant Editor, September 20XX April 20XX
The Bluestone Yearbook, JMU, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Selected and supervised staff.
Developed yearbook layout. Wrote and edited text.
Worked closely with photographers and sales representatives.

Fraud Prevention Specialist, May 20XX August 20XX

Bank of America, Charlotte, North Carolina
Managed integration of fraud systems project during conversion with First Fidelity
Bank.
Developed training module for new hires and temporary employees.
Performed as senior leader during development of checkcard fraud team.
Served as editor for department newsletter.
Monitored credit accounts for fraudulent activity and analyzed trends in fraud abuse.
1st Vice President, Student Virginia Education Association (SVEA), 20XX present
Work closely with Executive Board to develop and implement annual plans.
Conduct business meetings.
Schedule guest speakers and professional development programs.
National Council of Teachers of English
Virginia Association of Teachers of English
James Madison University Alumni Association
The Sorority of Alpha Sigma Alpha Alumni Association
Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education
Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
Golden Key Honor Society
http://www.arnez.com or available upon request
PROFESSIONAL
AFFILIATIONS

HONORS

PORTFOLIO

Two pages are acceptable for teaching candidates and for professional positions in
higher education.
Place your second page heading in the Header section (View > Header and Footer).
DONT simply insert it in your text. For someone else viewing your resume on-screen,
the page break may not fall in the place you intend.
When providing a URL for online information (portfolio, etc.), make sure all your website contents are strictly professional.
See Listing your personal website URL on your resume at www.career.vt.edu/
JOBSEARC/Resumes/website.htm.
Margins are .5 inch on all sides.
Font = Arial 10
OTHER
RELEVANT
EXPERIENCE

Field Experience, January April 20XX

Fallon Park Elementary School, Roanoke City Schools, Roanoke, Virginia
Explored issues of literacy development with academically-challenged 4th graders
Developed creative reading and writing strategies to increase students academic
confidence and interest.
Aided in administering standardized testing.
Teachers Aide, September November 20XX

Glenvar High School, Roanoke County Schools, Roanoke, Virginia
Observed a variety of teaching styles at the middle and high school levels.
Organized and executed lesson plans for a 9th grade English novel unit.
Aided in advising the yearbook staff on interviewing, design and editing.
Fulfilled such tasks as grading, research, and reading inventories.
Part-time Bank Teller, August 20XX May 20XX

Bank America, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Transacted consumer and commercial account business.
ADDITIONAL
EXPERIENCE

Writing Intern, May 20XX May 20XX

V Magazine, Roanoke, Virginia
Wrote articles focusing on regional artists, musicians, businesses and events.
Assisted during monthly production with editing, layout, and design.

Lydia Arnez
Page 2
LEADERSHIP ROLES:
Pre-Vet Club, President (August 20XX-present): Coordinate and lead meetings for 4 executive board
members and 30 general body members. Partner with local veterinarians to speak to organization on a variety
of topics.
CLASS PROJECTS:
Intro to Animal Behavior (April 20XX): Researched parental care behaviors in domestic animals. Wrote a 7
page report and presented findings to the class of 50 students.
DOG BREEDING (20XX-present) : Breed and raise Yellow Labrador puppies for resale. Raise and care for
pups until they are ready to go to individual homes. Interview owners to place pups in a happy and healthy
home
Additional Information:
LABORATORY SKILLS: Basic skills in collecting blood, urine, and feces from over 50 animals and
blood specimens from over 20 humans. Performed red and white blood cell counts. Prepared specimens
for laboratory analysis and testing. Prepared and stained slides for microscopic testing for specific disease
pathogens.
Affiliations:
Southwest Chapter 4-H Club, Member (September 20XX-present)
Won Honorable Mention at Virginia State Fair for wood carving (August 20XX)
Pre-Vet Club, Member (September 20XX-present), President (August 20XX-present)
Spanish
Spoken: Advanced
Written: Advanced
Read: Advanced
Language Skills:
Education:
B.S., (May 20XX), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA United States
120 Semester Hours
GPA: 3.5 of a maximum 4.0
Major: Biology
Relevant Coursework, Licenses and Certifications:
Intro to Biology/Lab, Human Biology and Disease, Anatomy and Physiology and Lab, Intro to Animal
Behavior and Lab

For a work
experience

taking place
at present, or
scheduled for the

future: Use

present or future

tense verbs
to
describe current

or expected
work
activities. Update
verb tense when

appropriate.

M.A.Ed, Teaching and Instruction, May 20XX

GPA 3.9
EDUCATION

Endorsement: Middle School
Secondary English teacher or Language Arts/Social Studies middle school

teacher. Interested in advising school yearbook, newspaper staff or literary magazine.
5606 Harding Road

(540) 555-7816
arnez1@vt.edu

OBJECTIVE

Lydia Arnez
Anna S. Ward Page 2
CUSTOMER SERVICE: Provided fast-paced quality customer service in a high-volume retail grocery store.
Cashier
Supervisor: Mitch Keys (540-555-1212)
Okay to contact this Supervisor: Yes
Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:
Food Lion (05/20XX - 08/20XX)

5500 Lee Highway, Bristol, VA 24201 United States
Salary: 6.75 USD Per Hour
Hours per week: 25
Teaching Resume
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Shadowed a variety of surgical and general animal health care procedures
using the limited medical equipment available in the third-world African nation.
ANIMAL HEALTH CARE: Acquired outstanding hands-on experience in phlebotomy, hematology, routine
and emergency surgical procedures, field autopsies, and general animal health care.
INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER: Three-month international volunteer assignment in a third-world

African nation. Lived in African compound and worked at local veterinary hospital that cared for both
animals and people because of their relatively modern laboratory facilities.
Medical Assistant
Supervisor: Ariana Logan; contact via Volunteers, Inc., New York, NY (800-222-3333)
Ho Clinic (05/20XX - 08/20XX)

Ho, Ghana
Salary: $0
Hours per week: 55
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Observed veterinary surgical and autopsy procedures on both domestic and
farm animals. Provided minor assistance as requested.
MAINTENANCE: Maintained facility, lab, and equipment.
DIAGNOSE, EXAMINE, AND TREAT: Worked directly with veterinarian to diagnose and treat a variety of
domestic animal diseases and conditions. Assisted with routine examinations and treatments.
Veterinary Assistant
Supervisor: Dr. Henry Johnson (555-898-1212)
Work Experience:
Valley View Animal Hospital (05/20XX-08/20XX)
2100 Main Street, Abingdon VA 24210 United States
Salary: 8.00 USD Per Hour
Hours per week: 20
Citizenship: United States

Veterans Status: N/A
Federal Civilian Status: N/A
Clearance: N/A
Anna S. Ward
1700 Foxrun Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060
Day Phone: 555-948-1404
Email: asward1@vt.edu
Federal Resume
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
59
Managed personnel, finance, and automated systems activities.

Represented commander by establishing goals/objectives and setting priorities for accomplishing overall organizational
functions.`
Assisted the commander in establishing and implementing both unit and individual training goals.
Interpreted training directives and guidance.
Reviewed completed personnel actions to ensure that procedures were properly followed.
Assisted the commander with strategic planning and establishment of unit action plans.
US Army Reserve (USAR) Unit Administrator (June, 20XX-December, 20XX)

Army Reserve Command, Los Alamitos, CA
Implemented administrative plans, policies and procedures established by commander.

Prepared and processed personnel pay, supply action, and maintenance of records.
Provided consultation on army reserve program and unit vacancies and conducted interviews.
Served as principal administrator responsible for the performance of a variety of technical, analytical, advisory and
coordinating duties for USAR Unit Commander in accomplishing overall functions of the unit.
Served as key point of contact regarding recruitment and retention for unit.
Intern (Summers 20XX-20XX)

Office of Personnel Management, Washington DC
Represented agency, along with full-time recruiters, at career fairs and information sessions on college campuses
throughout the country.
Organized hiring documents and coordinated schedules for hiring managers and interview candidates.
Coordinated professional development activities for interns across multiple agencies.
60

Celetronix India Pvt. Ltd.
Mumbai, India

Software Engineer
March 20XX-May 20XX
Designed and implemented a system for automated control of digital instruments for quality testing
in the hard drive manufacturing and testing unit.

Graduate Assistant, Department of Mechanical Engineering
February 20XX-July 20XX
Student research assistant developing and integrating user interfaces and individual modules within
a software framework called Integrated Simulation Environment. Languages used-Python and C.
Professional
Organizations
IEEE, IEEE Computer Society, ACM, SIAM, Upsilon Pi Epsilon honor society
Masters Thesis
Ranjith Raghavan, Meta-Model Search: Using XPath for Searching Domain-Specific
Models, M.S. Thesis, Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University of
Alabama at Birmingham, August 20XX.

Two-dimensional Data Redistribution algorithm (Fall 20XX): A library for redistributing
sparse, one- and two-dimensional dense matrices from P processors to Q processors,
arranged in 1D or 2D topology. The algorithm uses minimum number of steps for data
transfer and avoids node contention. This algorithm has been included as part of the
resizing library in the ReSHAPE framework.

Glips: A Peer-to-Peer Distributed File System (Fall 20XX): Designed a robust, reliable,
highly available, and scalable peer-to-peer distributed file system by combining ideas from
Google file system and Kelips P2P distributed hash table.

Performance Analysis of Matrix Multiplication over a Distributed Shared Memory (Spring
20XX): A comparative performance analysis of the matrix multiplication routine between
executing ScaLA-PACK on a distributed memory system and LAPACK on a distributed
shared memory system.

Distributed Shared Memory (Fall 20XX): Simulated a parallel shared memory system over
an underlying distributed system using MPI.

Integrated Simulation Environment(ISE) (Feb 20XX): ISE is a simulation environment
that integrates Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Computational Solid Mechanics
(CSM) and Computational Chemical Modeling (CCM). Developed 2D convergence plot
for a Hyb3d data file. Integrated the CFD, CSM and CCM modules into ISE using Python
interface.

Resource Brokering in a Grid Environment (Fall 20XX): Developed a rudimentary
resource brokering algorithm for execution of jobs in a Grid computing environment. The
algorithm was tested using the GridSim simulator.

Monte Carlo Simulation (Summer 20XX): Monte Carlo simulation of parallel random
number generation using Pthreads, PVM and a hybrid approach by using both Pthreads
and PVM on 8 nodes (32 processors) cluster.
Selected
Projects

University of Alabama
Birmingham, AL

Research Assistant, Department of Computer Science
August 20XX-July 20XX
Designed and implemented aXPath model search (XMOS) plug-in to provide advanced search
capabilities for domain-specific modeling tools like Generic Modeling Environment (GME 4).

Argonne National Laboratory
Lemont, IL

Summer Intern
May 20XX-August 20XX
Developed a new process manager for MPICH2 library. Implemented centralized and distributed
process managers for large scale systems. Supported faster process look-up using business card
caching and communication using ring processor topology.

Advanced Research Computing (ARC), Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA

Research Assistant
August 20XX-May 20XX, August 20XX- present
Programming consultant for the Laboratory of Advanced and Scientific Computing (LASCA) and
ARC. Ported parallel scientific applications to new parallel architectures. Assisted university-wide
researchers to develop and execute their scientific applications on SystemX cluster and other
smaller shared memory machines.
Research/
Department of Computer Science, Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA
Work
Research Assistant
August 20XX- present
Experience Developed a runtime system called ReSHAPE for dynamic resizing of parallel applications.
Implemented cluster job scheduler for parallel applications, plug-in framework to add new
scheduling policies. Designed and implemented a parallel application resizing library with efficient
data redistribution algorithms.
Programming languages: C, C++, Python, Visual Basic 6.0

Parallel Programming Models: MPI, POSIX, OpenMP
Technologies: TCP/IP
Operating System: Linux, Windows 9x/NT/2000/XP
Scripting Languages: XPath, HTML
Bachelor of Engineering, Computer Engineering, 2007

University of Mumbai, Mumbai, India

Computer
Skills

Master of Science, Computer Science, 20XX, GPA 3.85

University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL

Education Doctor of Philosophy, Computer Science, expected graduation: May 20XX, GPA 3.81

Dissertation Topic: Dynamic Resizing of Parallel Applications
Advisor: Dr. Carl J. Roberts
Multi-core systems, cloud computing, cluster scheduling and resource management,

application performance prediction, parallel file systems, virtualization, storage systems
Bachelor of Science, Management, May 20XX

George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
Research
Interests
Master of Business Administration, May 20XX

GPA: 3.7/4.0
Seeking a software engineer position in the field of high performance computing.
Education
Summary More than 4 years of experience in parallel programming with MPI and C. Experienced in
designing, implementing, and evaluating runtime systems for parallel applications. Experienced
in developing parallel algorithms for distributed and shared memory systems. Self-motivated
researcher with excellent analytical and communication skills. Strong work ethics, good leadership
qualities and interpersonal skills, can work independently as well as a team player.
Highly skilled personnel manager with 10+ years of experience hiring, training, and managing diverse teams.
Superior written and interpersonal communication skills developed through weekly report writing, supervision and
training of staff.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
Completed numerous management training courses related to goal-setting, conflict resolution and mentoring.
Obtained and maintained top secret security clearance.
Earned three promotions in rank based on accomplishments and overall job performance.
Publications Journals/Conferences/Workshop

Raghavan, R., Roberts, C. J., & Farkas, C. (20XX). Dynamic resizing of scientific
simulations. Proceedings of International Conference on Computational Science

Raghavan, R, & Roberts, C. J. (20XX). Design and performance of a scheduling
framework for resizable parallel applications. To appear in the Proceedings of IEEE
International Parallel and Distributed Processing Symposium.

Raghavan, R., & Roberts, C. J. (20XX). Reshape: a framework for dynamic resizing and
scheduling of homogeneous applications in a parallel environment. In the Proceedings of
International Conference on Parallel Processing, Xian, China, September 11-15

Raghavan, R., & Roberts, C. J. (20XX). Efficient multidimensional data redistribution for
resizable parallel computations. In the Proceedings of the Fifth International Symposium
on Parallel and Distributed Processing and Applications, Niagara Falls, CA, August
29-31

Raghavan, R., & Gray, J. (20XX). Meta-model search: using xpath as a tool for searching
domain specific models. Invited submission to a special issue of the Journal of Research
and Practice in Information Technology, Vol. 38, No. 4.

Raghavan, R., & Gray, J. (20XX). Meta-model search: using xpath as a tool for searching
domain specific models. In the Proceedings of the International Conference of Software
Engineering Research and Practice, Las Vegas, NV, June 26-30.

Gray, J., Zhang, J., Wu, H., Roychoudhury, S., & Raghavan, R., Gokhale, A., Neema, S.,
Shi, F. and Bapty, T. (20XX). Model-driven program transformation of large avionics
framework. In the Proceedings of Generative Programming and Component Engineering,
Vancouver, BC, October.

Shaik, S., Corvin, R., Raghavan, R., Javed, F., Ijaz, Q., Roychoudhury, S. Gray, J., Bryant,
B. (20XX). Speechclipse-an eclipse speech plug-in, in the Eclipse workshop proceedings
at AMC OOPSLA, Anaheim, CA, October 26-30.
Summary of Qualifications
Objective
Supervisor Unit Administrator (January, 20XX-August, 20XX)

Army Reserve Command, Ayer, MA
Ranjith Raghavan Page 2
1234 Cambria StreetChristiansburg, VA 24073erpeters@vt.edu540-987-6543
123 University City Blvd, Apt K12

Tel: (540) 555-2313
Email: ranragha@vt.edu
http://people.cs.vt.edu/~ranragha
ERIC R. PETERSEN
Ranjith Raghavan
Relevant Experience
PhD Resume
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
Student Veteran Resume
61
62
Bachelor of Science, Biology, Minor: Chemistry, May 20XX
Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA
Regulation of aerobic gene expression

DNA sequencing and determination of DNA binding domains
Undergraduate biology and microbiology courses including microbiology, genetics, and microbial
genetics
Graduate microbiology courses
Pre-Doctoral Fellow/Ph.D. Research, Department of Biology, Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA, August 20XX - present
Design and conduct experiments for purification and characterization of the repressor for
the sn-glycerol 3-phosphate regulon of Escherichia coli K-12
Identified structure of the glp repressor and determined DNA binding domains
Research Fellow, National Institutes of Health, Poolesville, MD
May 20XX - August 20XX
Synethsized and purified hundreds of oligonucleotides
Sequenced DNA
Constructed a cosmid library from human blood DNA
Research
RELATED EXPERIENCE
TEACHING INTERESTS
Permanent Address
5000 Greenbrook Drive
Norfolk, VA 23703
(757) 555-1000
Phi Beta Kappa

Cunningham Dissertation Fellowship (Virginia Tech research grant), 20XX - 20XX
American Society for Microbiology, 20XX - present
Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society, 20XX - present
National Institutes of Health Pre-doctoral Fellowship, 20XX - 20XX
RESEARCH INTERESTS
HONORS/AFFILIATIONS
Doctorate of Philosophy, Microbiology, Expected May 20XX

Dissertation: Regulation of aerobi gene expression in Escherichia coli
Advisor: Thomas W. Kingrea
Jonathan O. Benjamin
EDUCATION
Current Address
1200-F University Terrace
(540) 555-3000
Biology Research Technician, Biotech Research Laboratories, Inc., Roanoke, VA

June 20XX - August 20XX
Participated in DNA fingerprinting project
Digested genomic DNA with restriction enzymes
Separated digested DNA fragments by electrophoresis through agarose gels and transferring by
Southern blotting technique
Prepared buffers, photographed gels, developed autoradiographs
Teaching Assistant, Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA

August 20XX - May 20XX, August 20XX - May 20XX
Advised undergraduate biochemistry students during office hours
Graded quizzes and assignments
Doctor, J.B. and T.W. Advisor. 20XX. Regulation of aerobic sn-glycerol 3-phosphate dehydrogenase
glpD gene expression in Escherichia coli K-12. Am. Soc. for Microbiol., Miami Beach, FL.
Advisor, T.W., J.B. Doctor, A. Colleague, and S. Colleague, A.M. Graduate. 20XX. Tandem operators
control sn-glycerol 3-phosphate glp gene expression in Escherichia coli Gordon Res. Conf., Meriden,
NH.
Doctor, J.B. and T.W. Advisor. 20XX. Nucleotide sequence of the glpR gene encoding the repressor of
Escherichia coli K-12. Am. Society for Microbiol., Anaheim, CA.
ABSTRACTS
Advisor, T.W., J.B. Doctor, A. Colleague, and S. Colleague. 20XX. Purification and characterization
of the repressor for the sn-glycerol 3-phosphate regulon of Escherichia coli K-12. J. Biol. Chem. xxx:
xxxx-xxxx.
Doctor, J.B. and T.W. Advisor. 20XX. Structures of the promoter abd operator of the glpD gene coding
aerobic sn-glycerol 3-phosphate dehydrogenase of Escherichia coli K-12. J. Bacteriol. xx: xxxx-xxxx.
Doctor, J.B. and T.W. Advisor. Structure of the glp repressor and the determination of DNA binding
domains. (in preparation)
PUBLICATIONS
Laboratory Instructor, Department of Biology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA

August 20XX - present
Taught two laboratory sections for undergraduate introductory Microbiology course
Teaching
Research Assistant, Department of Biology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA

August 20XX - May 20XX
Performed protein bioassays and prepared tissue cultures
Assisted with DNA preparations for DNA fingerprinting including isolating DNA and gel
electrophoresis
Analyzed data
Page 2
Jonathan O. Benjamin
Curriculum Vitae
Virginia Tech
College Address
451-L E. Roanoke Street
(540) 953-5553
shamekac@vt.edu
SHAMEKA R. CONSTANTINE
Dr. Jane Doe

Professor
Virginia Tech
College of Agriculture & Life Sciences
1060 Litton Reaves Hall
(540) 231-5555
janedoe@vt.edu
Virginia Tech
Five Key Points About References

Three to five people are a good number of references to have. Who should you ask? Current or former

supervisors,
faculty members, coaches, or advisors. Family or close personal friends are not
recommended.
Always ask permission before listing someone as a reference. As you ask, provide your references

with
a copy of your resume or CV, and any other materials that may be relevant like a job listing, cover
letter, or graduate school essay.
Keep your list of references in a document separate from your resume. Usually references are not

needed
at the initial time of application. Bring copies of your reference page to your interview. If you
have a CV, references are often included in an academic job search.
Share the contact information for your references including their job titles, employers, mailing
addresses, phone numbers and email addresses.
Keep your references up to date on your progress and be sure to thank your references after your job
search or your graduate school application process is complete.
Sample Reference List

Permanent Address
1302 Marquis Court
Fallston, MD 21047
(410) 877-8142
References:
Make sure the

address header
matches your resume
address header.
Mr. Walter Randolph

Supervisor
Mead Paper
2705 Market Street
Chillicothe, Ohio 45601
(419) 555-2045
wrandolph@mead.com
Ms. Jane Wilson

Department Manager
Johnson Controls, Inc.
4527 Appleton Drive
Sparks, MD 21152
(301) 555-8211
jwilson@employer.com
63
Closing: Indicate that you would like the opportunity to interview for a position or to talk with the
employer to learn more about their opportunities or hiring plans. State what you will do to follow
up, such as telephone the employer within two weeks. If you will be in the employers location and
could offer to schedule a visit, indicate when. State that you would be glad to provide the employer
with any additional information needed. Thank the employer for her/his consideration.
Sincerely,
(Your handwritten signature)
Your name typed
Enclosure(s) (refers to resume, etc.)
(Note: the contents of your letter might best be arranged into four paragraphs. Consider what you
need to say and use good writing style. See the following examples for variations in organization and
layout.)
64
Enclosure
Donna Harrington
Attachment: Resume included below and

attached MS Word document
Sincerely,
Lynn A. Johnson
5542 Hunt Club Lane, #1
540-555-8888
lajohnson@vt.edu
Thank you for your consideration.
In email:
Theres obviously no need
to leave space for your
handwritten signature; not
applicable in email.
Your address block follows
your name, at the end of
the text.
Sincerely,
I look forward to putting my knowledge and experience into practice in the public school system.
Next week I will be in Vienna, and I plan to call you then to answer any questions that you may have
at that time. I can be reached before then at (540) 555-7670. Thank you for your consideration.
Through my early childhood education courses, I have had the opportunity to work in a private day
care facility, Rainbow Riders Childcare Center, and in Virginia Techs Child Development
Laboratory. Both centers were NAEYC accredited. At both locations, my responsibilities included
leading small and large group activities, helping with lunches and snacks, and implementing
appropriate activities. My work in the Child Development Laboratory provided me with extensive
knowledge of developmentally appropriate activities and materials.
develop lesson plans on a wide range of topics and varying levels of academic ability,
work with emotionally and physically challenged students in a total inclusion program,
observe and participate in effective classroom management approaches,
assist with parent-teacher conferences, and
complete In-Service sessions on diversity, math and reading skills, and community relations.
I look forward to talking with you, and will call you within the next week to
answer any questions you may have.
My resume, which more fully details my qualifications for the position, is

attached and below.
The teacher preparation program at Virginia Tech includes a full academic year of student teaching.
Last semester I taught second grade and this semester, fourth grade. These valuable experiences
have afforded me the opportunity to:
I enjoyed our conversation on February 19 at the Family and Child Development seminar on
teaching young children and appreciated your personal input about helping children attend
school for the first time. This letter is to follow-up on the Fourth Grade Teacher position as
discussed at the seminar. I will be completing my Bachelor of Science Degree in Family and Child
Development with a concentration in Early Childhood Education at Virginia Tech in May of 20XX,
and will be available for employment at that time.
While working toward my masters degree, I was employed as a sales

representative with a small dairy foods firm. I increased my sales volume
and profit margin appreciably while at Farmers Foods, and hope to couple
that success with the challenges and rewards of the pharmaceutical
industry. I have a strong academic background in biology and marketing,
and think that I could apply that knowledge and my experience to the
health industry.
I am writing to apply for your sales representative position (number

sdr-324-782) for the Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina areas; I found
the position posted on Hokies4Hire. I am very interested in a position with
Acme Pharmaceuticals because I know your reputation through a former
classmate, Joan Abrams, who now works in your Northeast region. I
believe that my education and employment background are appropriate for
the position.
Body: Tell why you are interested in the employer or type of work the employer does (Simply
stating that you are interested does not tell why, and can sound like a form letter). Demonstrate
that you know enough about the employer or position to relate your background to the employer or
position. Mention specific qualifications from the job description that make you a good fit for the
employers needs. This is an opportunity to explain in more detail relevant items in your resume.
Refer to the fact that your resume is enclosed. Mention other enclosures if such are required to apply
for a position.
Dear Dr. Rhodes:
Opening paragraph: State why you are writing, how you learned of the organization or position,
and basic information about yourself.
Dr. Michael Rhodes, Jr.

Principal, Wolftrap Elementary School
1205 Beulah Road
Vienna, VA 22182
Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. : (Last Name Only)
Dear Mr. Jackson:
Cover Letter 101
February 22, 20XX
Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name

Title
Name of Organization
Street or P. O. Box Address
City, State Zip Code
E-2 Apartment Heights Dr.

(540) 555-0101
abcd@vt.edu
Month Day, Year
Letter of Application Sent via Email
Your Street Address

City, State Zip Code
Telephone Number
Email Address
Letter of Application
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
65
Virginia Tech
Email Letter of Inquiry About Internship Possibilities

Dear Ms. Range:
I am completing my junior year at Virginia Tech, and am seeking an internship working with high-school age
youth in an outdoor setting. I am double-majoring in Sociology and Family and Child Development and have
a strong interest and experience in outdoor activities. I learned about your Wilderness Challenge program
for troubled juveniles through Internet research, and am writing to inquire about possible internship or
summer job possibilities.
Virginia Tech
Interviews: Tips, Types, and To Dos

What you need to know:
Interview Stages:
My background and coursework have supplied me with an understanding of dealing with the adolescent
community and with many skills that are a good match for your program. For example:
Yourself
Introduction
The Employer
Dialogue
I worked as a hotline assistant for a local intervention center. I counseled teenagers about personal
concerns and referred them, when necessary, to appropriate professional services for additional help.
Interview Process
Closing
I have been active at the university as a resident hall assistant, which requires me to establish rapport
with fifty residents and advise them on personal matters, as well as university policies. In addition, I
develop social and educational programs and activities each semester for up to 200 participants.
Types of Interviews to
Prepare For
I have extensive camping, hiking, and canoeing experience.

My attached resume provides additional details about my background.
I will be in the Marion area during my Spring break, March 1 - March 8, and plan to contact you at that
time to inquire about an opportunity to meet with you to discuss your program.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sell the employer

on how you fit the
opening. How will
you add value?
Phone
Video
Face-to-face
Group
Sincerely,
Stacy Lee Gimble
Use specific
examples as you
answer questions.
No one else has
your stories.
Attachment
Follow Up to Meetings (information sessions, career fairs, etc.)

Sample Email
Dear [Recruiter/Contact Name],
Thank you for speaking with me at [event name]. I enjoyed
our discussion about [opportunities with company or
memorable portion of conversation]. I am writing to follow
up with you about [the opportunity we spoke about]. I have
read more about the opportunity [or applied online as you
suggested] and I am very excited about the opportunity to
join the team as an [intern/position title]. I would like to
maintain contact with you about this position and/or other
opportunities with [company name]. If there is any additional
information required from me or if there is any additional
information you would like to share with me, please contact
me either by phone at [phone number] or via email, [email
address]. I will also send you a LinkedIn connection request
as another means to maintain contact.
Thanks again for speaking with me and I look forward to
communicating with you further.
Best Regards,
[Your name]
66
Sample Voicemail
Hello my name is [your name] leaving a message for
[recruiter/contact name]. It is [time] on [day, date]. I am
calling to follow up with you regarding the conversation we
had at [event name/location and approximate time frame
(last week, a few weeks ago)]. I appreciated you taking the
time to talk with me about [opportunity]. I have applied online
as you instructed and I was hoping to talk with you further
about the opportunity. When you have a moment would you
please call me back at [phone number]. Or if email is more
convenient for you, feel free to email me at [email address
and then spell out email]. Again this is [your name] calling for
[recruiter name] following up from our conversation at [event
name and location]. Thank you.
Say thank you.

Send a note of
thanks after your
interview: email,
handwritten or
both.
Interview Dos
Arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled interview

appointment.
Dress appropriately and conservatively.
Know the exact time and location of your interview;
some employers may schedule interviews at other
locations.
Know the name and pronunciation of your interviewers
name.
Address the interviewer by his/her titleMr., Ms.,
Mrs., Dr. Listen closely to the introduction so you will
know his/her title.
Offer a firm handshake at the beginning and
conclusion of the interview.
Maintain good eye contact with the interviewer.
Sit still in your seat. Avoid slouching, twisting, and
fidgeting.
Have questions prepared to ask the interviewer.
Research the organization prior to the interview in the
Career and Professional Development and Newman
Libraries or online.
Be concise with your answers, yet be complete.
If you are given an application form, complete it
Follow up after
your meeting.
Find out before
you leave your
interview when to
check in.
factually and neatly.

At the conclusion of the interview, inform the
interviewer that you will be pleased to supply additional
information if needed.
Express your appreciation to the interviewer for taking
the time to talk to you.
Show enthusiasm and initiative.
Portray self-confidence.
Interview Donts
Do not make negative comments about previous

employers or professors.
Do not falsify your application or answers to any
interview questions.
Do not imply that you will consider only one specific job
with that particular organization.
Do not give the impression that you are interested in
the organization because of its geographical location.
Do not give the impression that you are just surveying
the employment possibilities.
If you choose to use cologne, use it sparingly.
Dont ask about salary/benefits unless the employer
brings it up first.
67
Virginia Tech
Research Employers
Before Interviews
About the organization
Mission/culture
NEWS: valuable source to create questions
Products or services
Market share/stock price/number of employees/annual sales
Competitors
Financial outlook
About the position

Job duties
Career path
Training
About the people
Who is interviewing you? Ask if you dont know

Knowing about your interviewer will make you more at ease
Visit CareerShift to find articles mentioning your interviewers
Use Google and LinkedIn to learn about your interviewers
Interviews Are a 2-Way Street

INTERVIEWER
Questions Asked by Interviewers
You will be asked many questions during a job interview.

Below is a list of questions that may help you prepare and
be more at ease during the interview.
General Interview Questions:

What are your long-term and short-term goals?
How would this job or graduate program help you to
achieve your career goals?
What was your easiest, most difficult, and most
interesting class? Why?
Why are you interested in this position, our
organization, or this graduate program?
How do you think a friend or professor who knows
you well would describe you?
What are your strengths, weaknesses, and
interests?
What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
Tell me about your greatest accomplishment.
What led you to choose your major or field of study?
How has your school and work experience prepared
you for this job or program?
Do you think your grades are a good indication of your
academic achievement?
What makes you unique? Why should we hire you?
Job Interviews:
About the location
GoinGlobal for information on over 40 U.S. cities and 30 countries

Best places to live: www.bestplaces.net
In what ways do you think you can make a

contribution to our organization?
In what work environment are you most comfortable?
How do you work under pressure?
In what previous part-time, co-op, or summer jobs
have you been most interested? Why?
What two or three qualities or criteria are most
important to you in a prospective job?
What criteria are you using to evaluate the
organization for which you hope to work?
Graduate School Interviews:
Resources to tap into

Glassdoor.com
LinkedIn.com
CareerShift and GoinGlobal via career.vt.edu
Google
68
Virginia Tech
What do you believe your greatest challenge will be if

you are accepted into this program?
What do you plan to specialize in?
What are your research interests?
What will you do if you are not accepted into
graduate/ professional school?
What skills or abilities are you hoping to gain through
this program?
What are some current trends in your field of study?
What other schools are you considering?
CANDIDATE
Questions to Ask Interviewers
The employer will usually provide an opportunity for you

to ask questions. Always be prepared to ask questions.
Prepare questions, recognizing that some of them will be
answered in the literature provided by the employer. If you
are having trouble developing questions, you may want to
consider the following:
Job Interviews:
How much opportunity is there to see the end results
of my efforts?
Who will review my performance? How often?
How much guidance or assistance is made available to
individuals in developing career goals?
Can you describe an ideal employee?
What are the companys strengths and weaknesses
compared to its competition?
What is the organizations plan for the next five years,
and how does this department fit in?
Could you explain your organizational structure?
How will my leadership responsibilities and
performance be measured? By whom?
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?
Could you describe your companys management style
and the type of employee who fits well with it?
What are some of the skills and abilities necessary for
someone to succeed in this job?
What is the companys policy on providing seminars,
workshops, and training so employees can keep up
their skills or acquire new ones?
What kind of work can I expect to be doing the first
year?
Graduate School Interviews:

How long does it typically take to complete the
program?
What makes this program different than others in the
same field?
What have recent alumni done after graduation?
What qualities do you look for in a successful
candidate?
What financial assistance is offered? How are
recipients chosen?
What opportunities are there to gain hands-on
experience during the program?
What are some research projects current students are
pursuing?
What does the process look like from here? When can I
expect to hear back?
69
Virginia Tech
Video and Phone Interviewing Tips

Tips on Phone and Video Interviews
Be sure to find a quiet place for your interview, where

no one will be able to interrupt. The less distractions
around you, the more likely you will be invested in the
interview. You can reserve a room at the Smith Career
Center to conduct your interview.
Try to sit at a table or desk. This will help you to stay
organized, as well as keep you attentive during the
interview.
Take time to prepare for certain questions. Page 68 in
the Career Planning Guide provides a list of questions
that may help you prepare and be more at ease during
the interview.
Be sure to also have questions prepared to ask your
interviewer. Page 69 in the Career Planning Guide
also provides a list of questions for you to prepare to
ask. Note that some questions you prepare may be
answered during the interview.
For all types of interviews, be sure to do some
research about your company or organization before
the interview. This will show your interviewer your
dedication to the application process and for the
organization.
Be sure to slow down and breathe during your interview.
Take a breath between the interviewer asking you a
question and when you start answering.
Send a thank you email or thank you letter after your
interview. Let interviewers know you appreciated them
taking time to talk to you and that you enjoyed the meeting,
as well as are invested in the application process.
Two Basic Types of Video Interviews

Live Interviews: talk to the interviewer from your
video device
Taped Interviews: respond to prompts, written or
in an application
Video
Camera should be at the same height as the top of

your head
You look better when the camera looks down on you. Looking
up gives definition to your chin and that is a visual indicator
of strength and character. Having the camera sit slightly
above your hairline will help you maintain good posture while
giving you the most attractive camera angle.
If you wear glasses, get an anti-glare coating

If they cant see your eyes, they cant trust you. Every
reputable eyeglass retailer offers an anti-glare lens coating
at a modest charge. Without the coating, your eyes look like
a circle of light. With the coating, the interviewers get the
feeling that they are making a connection with you (because
you are looking directly into the camera).
Use anti-shine makeup

People read a shiny face as a sweaty face. They read a
sweaty face as a nervous face. Video amplifies any degree of
shine you might have on your face. It turns into a shiny white
space that distracts from the real message. You want just
enough to eliminate the glare. Too much makeup is a bad
thing.
Look directly into the camera
Phone:
Do not write out answers for prepared questions to

read verbatim. You want to have a conversation and not
simply have robotic rehearsed answers.
Have your resume printed out in front of you. If the
interviewer asks about something specifically on your
resume, you can reference it easily and at ease.
You may also want to write out key words maybe on
post-it notes to help you if you are caught off guard.
These key words could include some of your strengths
and weaknesses.
In addition to your tips, you may want to print out
information about the job or application you are
applying for, as well as the company.
When answering questions, be sure to speak clearly
into the phone.
70
Make eye contact with the interviewer. This means looking at

the camera and not the screen. Making eye contact with the
camera is critical. People read a lack of eye contact as an
indicator of untrustworthiness.
Watch your posture

Because the interview will be done in some place that
you are comfortable, its easy to forget that its a formal
interaction. You should not slouch, squirm, look away from
the camera for more than a brief moment, look bored, or
yawn. When you are in the interview, you have to act like you
are in the interviewers office, not your bedroom.
Manage the background

The interviewer isnt interested in your books or other
collectibles. Find a simple background and set your camera
up to capture it. The best image is your head and shoulders
against simple backgrounds (not white). The image
shouldnt show any of the table.
Virginia Tech
Use InterviewStream to Perfect

Your Interview Skills
InterviewStream is a web-based mock interview program
that allows you to record yourself interviewing with your
computers webcam and send it to an advisor to provide
you feedback. There are over 6,000 questions to choose
from so you can practice industry-specific questions.
1.Access VTs InterviewStream Portal by using your VT
PID and password. Visit career.vt.edu and search for
InterviewStream.
2.Create an account: Click Create Account to create
your free InterviewStream account.
3.Pick the questions youd like to be asked: Select a
pre-built interview, click Choose This Interview or
click Customize Your Own Interview to set or create
your own interview.
4.Conduct your interview: Using the webcam on your

computer, you can conduct a mock interview at any
time in any place. A video interviewer will first ask you
the question, then the camera will begin recording your
response. You can view your answer, retry, or continue
to the next question.
5.Watch and share your video: You can send your
completed interview to a professor, mentor, or an
advisor in Career and Professional Development to
have it reviewed or you can just use this tool to practice
on your own. Visit the VT mock interview website
for instructions on reviewing your InterviewStream
Interview with an advisor, or call Career and
Professional Development at 540-231-6241 to set up
an appointment. You will be directed to send your video
to the advisor youll be meeting with.
Group Interviews: Are You READY?

Some interviews involve multiple interviewers, while other interviews may include multiple candidates in one interview
together. Consider these tips as you prepare for your group interview.
Multiple Interviewers
Before your interview, research your interviewers. Titles

or bios on the company website or LinkedIn can be
helpful.
Include everyone in the conversation. Make eye
contact with each person, not just the person asking
the question.
When you are asked questions, your interviewers will
probably take turns asking questions.
When asking your interviewers questions, make sure to
pause long enough for multiple answers.
With multiple interviewers a variety of experience
and viewpoints will be represented. Use this as an
opportunity to get diverse information about the job,
location, or other important considerations.
Ask for everyones business card at the end of the
interview to help as you send thank you notes. Send a
unique thank you note to each person.
Multiple Candidates
Dont let the other candidates intimidate you. Focus on

what makes you a great candidate.
Include everyone in the group discussions. Know when
to lead and when to follow.
Build on other peoples ideas to show that you are
listening.
Be yourself. Dont force characteristics because you
think they are what the company seeks.
Speak with a purpose. Go beyond paraphrasing what
others have already said.
Make your interactions with other candidates
personable and professional. Stick to non-controversial
conversation topics.
You might end up working with some of the other
candidates, so get to know them. However, dont let
getting to know other candidates distract you from why
you are there: to get a job.
71
Virginia Tech
Behavioral Interviews
Behavioral Interviewing
Behavioral interviewing is a technique used by employers in

which the questions asked assist the employer in making
predictions about a potential employees future success
based on past behaviors. In behavior-based interviews,
candidates are asked to give specific examples of when
they demonstrated particular behaviors or skills.
The candidate must describe in detail a particular event,
project, or experience, how he/she dealt with the
situation, and what the outcome was.
Interview Follow-Up Correspondence

Effective Formula for Answering
Behavioral Interviews
S. Describe the Situation you were in or
T.the Task you needed to accomplish;
A. describe the Action you took and
R.the Results of your experience.
Prepare for Behavioral Interviews
Use the STAR formula for responding to behavioral questions: S Situation, T Task, A Action, R Results. To help you
prepare, use the STAR formula to come up with a story you would tell for each skill area below.
Sample Email
Dear [Recruiter/Contact Name],
First I would like to thank you again for taking the time to
speak with me about [Title/Position] during our interview
on [date or estimated timeframe]. I am writing because I
have not received an update since our interview. I would
like to understand the status of the search. I would also
like to reiterate my interest in the position. Our discussion
has furthered my interest in the position and increased my
enthusiasm for joining the team at [Company Name]. And of
course, I would like to be selected for the position [or chosen
to move forward in the process (if additional interviews are
required)]. I believe that my skills, experiences and values
are in alignment with the requirements of the position and
the work culture at [Company Name].
YOUR STAR STORY
Teamwork
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
I was particularly impressed with your warehousing

procedures. Mr. Allen was so thorough in explaining your
process to me, and I will be corresponding directly with him
to express my appreciation. Incidentally, the process you
use is quite similar to one I have been researching through
an independent study this term. Perhaps I can share my
final report with you and Mr. Allen.
Situation:
Action:
The expense report you requested is attached.
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Situation:
Action:
Task:
Result:
Persuasion
Communication Skills
Time Management
Multitasking
Leadership
Problem Solving
Adaptability
Goal Setting/
Achievement
Creativity
Going above and

beyond call of duty
72
NOTE: Thank-you notes should be sent within 24-48 hours of your interview. However, follow-ups to interviews should be
done if the employer has not responded to you about next steps within the timeframe shared during your interview.
SKILL
Decision Making
Virginia Tech
Any update on the search and/or feedback on my interview

that you can provide would be greatly appreciated. I can be
contacted by phone at [your phone number] or via email,
[your email address]. Thank you so much for your time and
consideration of me for this position. I look forward to hearing
from you.
Sample Voicemail
Hello my name is [your name] leaving a message for
[recruiter/contact name]. It is [time] on [day, date]. I am
calling to follow up with you regarding the [Title/Position]
that I interviewed for [date or estimated timeframe]. I would
appreciate an update on the status of the opening as I have
not received an update on the search since our interview. I
would also like to reiterate my interest in the position. Our
interview discussion has furthered my enthusiasm for the
position and joining the team at [Company Name]. I believe
that my skills, experiences and values are in alignment with
the requirements of the position and the work culture at
[Company Name]. If you need additional information from me,
feel free to contact me via email [spell out email address] or
by phone at [your phone number]. Again this is [your name]
calling for [recruiter name] following up from our interview.
Thank you again for your time and consideration of me for
this position. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your name]
Thank-You via Email

Dear Ms. Smith:
Thank you for the opportunity to visit with you and see your
facilities last Wednesday. Both the interview and the tour
made for an exciting and complete day.
Again, thank you for your hospitality. I am quite interested in

Sheldon Computers and Electronics, and look forward to your
decision.
Sincerely,
Jim Richardson
Attachment
Handwritten Thank-You Note

Dear Mr. Wright,
I enjoyed interviewing with you during your recruiting visit to Virginia
Tech in February. After learning more about the management position,
I think I would find the position both challenging and rewarding and
would thrive in the company culture at your office.
As mentioned during my interview, I will be graduating in May with a
bachelors degree in management. Through my educational experience
I have gained many skills, as well as understanding of how management
works. This plus my two related internships would be an asset to your
company.
Thank you again for taking the time to interview me, I look forward to
your decision. Please dont hesitate to contact me if you need anything
at (540) 555-1111 or at smith@vt.edu.
Sincerely,
Marianne Boles
73
Virginia Tech
Salary Information:
What Are You Worth?

You can always come
by and talk to a career
advisor about job offers!
Virginia Tech
Compare Your Offer$

Company A
Company B
Company C
Company D
Position
Company Size
Factors to Consider
Retirement
Hours
Health insurance
Moving expenses
Vacation
Opportunity for advancement

Type of work
Sick Time
Geographical location
Vacation & Sick leave
Flexible work hours, gym
memberships, and parking
Travel
Retirement Plan
Future education
Professional development and training
Health Insurance
Moving Allowance
Total Compensation
Total compensation refers to the consideration of all

factors in an offer, not just the salary. In order to do this
you want to know where to do your research and what
factors to think about.
Places to research starting salaries and cost of

living:

career.vt.edu and search for salary information

www.jobsearchintelligence.com/nace/
salary-calculatorintro/

money.cnn.com/calculator/pf/cost-of-living/
Signing Bonus
Advancement
Opportunities
Boss
(personality fit)
Location
salary.com or payscale.com

jobstar.org
www.salaryexpert.com

www.glassdoor.com

www.jobnob.com/salaries
Salary
Other Issues

The Jobs Rated Almanac
American Salaries and Wages Survey
74
75
Virginia Tech
Negotiating Job Offers

Receiving a job offer, particularly from one of your top
choices, is exciting. However, the process can become
stressful if the offer does not meet your expectations or
match your worth. Negotiating offers, particularly salary, is
becoming more and more common. Yet it is a conversation
that many students and recent graduates are unsure of
how to initiate. Below is a sample negotiation script. If you
would like additional advising, please call 540-231-6241
to schedule an appointment with a career advisor.
IMPORTANT: Before initiating the conversation, be sure
to diligently research the salary range for the position. Be
prepared to cite your sources, and/or other pending offers,
when making the case for an increase in salary.
Student: I want to say thank you again for extending
the offer to join the [company name] team. I am
extremely pleased to have the opportunity to work
with you and this organization. However, I would like
to discuss compensation, as it is less than I expected.
Student: Before we get into specific numbers, I would

like to understand how your organization structures
salary ranges and how this particular salary was
determined. I would like this to work for both of us.
Listen to the response (A likely reason will be lack of
experience).
Student: I understand the organization prefers to
bring recent graduates in at the lower end of the
range due to a lack of experience. However, my
internship experiences, technical expertise, and
education warrants a higher salary. According to the
Virginia Tech Post-Grad Survey, graduates within my
major make a higher salary than what was offered
for similar work. The National Association of Colleges
and Employers (NACE) most recent salary survey also
indicates that the starting salary for similar positions
is higher than what was offered.
Company: I have heard your argument. However,
the most we can offer is XXXXX which is still less than
what you want.
Acknowledging a Job Offer

(neither accepting nor declining)
444 University Road

(540) 555-9876
xyzabc@vt.edu
July 1, 20XX
Grand Hotel Inc.
8899 Jefferson Street
Roanoke, VA 24022
Student: Well [company name] is indeed one of my

top choices for employment and based on what I
know about the company and from my interview, I
believe I would enjoy working there, gain invaluable
experience, and be a contributing member of the
team. I am willing to consider a signing bonus of XXXX
in lieu of an increase in salary OR additional vacation
time OR flexible working hours OR telecommuting
once per week. Are any of these elements
negotiable?
Dear insert name of contact:

I am acknowledging your letter offering me the catering and sales
representative position with Grand Hotel, Incorporated. Thank you
very much for offering me this exciting opportunity. The terms of
your offer are clear, and I am certain I will be able to give you a
response by your requested deadline of July 16. I appreciate your
allowing me ample time to consider your offer so that I can be sure
my decision will be in the best interest of both my career goals
and the needs of your corporation.
In the meantime, should I have any questions, I will call you.
Please do not hesitate to call me if I can provide you with any
needed information.
Yours truly,
Paula Morgan
Declining a Job Offer
Request for Extension of Deadline for

Accepting or Rejecting a Job Offer
Company: Sure we can talk about compensation.
What did you have in mind?
March 1, 20XX
900 Town Road

(540) 555-9009
myname@vt.edu
Dr. Thomas G. Jones

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
tgjones@xxxyyyzzz.gov
April 20, 20XX5
Dear Dr. Jones:

Thank you for your telephone call and letter of last week offering
me the position of Wildlife Biologist with the Oregon Department
of Fish and Wildlife. I am excited about the opportunity this
position offers both in terms of job duties and location.
You asked that I make a decision by March 20. This is an
important decision and I do not have all the information I need
in order to make this decision by that date. Would it be possible
for me to supply you with my decision by March 27? I would very
much appreciate such an extension, and assure you that I will be
able to make a firm decision by that date.
Thank you very much for your consideration of my request.
Sincerely,
Suzanne George
343 Jefferson Street
540-552-1111
sgeo@vt.edu
Acceptance of a Job Offer

1234 College Road
(540) 555-0000
email : myname@vt.edu
March 1, 20XX
Mr. Johnathon P. Summers
Summers Fruit Company
1678 Plantation Road
Atlanta, GA 46201
Dear Mr. Summers:
PLEASE NOTE: There is a level of risk

associated with negotiating. Negotiations
may fail leading to a decline of the offer.
Keep in mind though that if research
supports your desired salary it is likely
that you can obtain that salary elsewhere.
However, it is in UNETHICAL to renege
on an offer. If you accept an offer, you
should stop your job search and cancel
any scheduled interviews. If you would
like to continue your job search in hopes
of securing a higher salary, you should
decline the offer and then proceed with
your search.
Thank you for your offer of employment as a grower at your Fruitville, Florida site. I am delighted to accept your offer and look
forward to beginning work with Summers Fruit Company.
You indicated that I will be receiving a salary of $______ per year,
and will have initial duties reporting to Andrea Caruso. As your offer
stated, I will begin work on August 1st. In mid-July, after
relocating to the area, I will call you to see what information or
materials I may need before August 1st. In the meantime, please
let me know if I can provide you with any information.
Mr. John Jones

Citizens Network for Foreign Affairs
343 Third Street, NW
Washington, DC 20201-0343
Dear Mr. Jones:
Thank you very much for your telephone call and letter offering me the
position of Assistant Project Coordinator with the Citizens Network for
Foreign Affairs. While I believe firmly in the mission of your organization and
appreciate the challenging opportunity you offer, I have had another offer
which I believe more closely matches my current career goals and interests.
Therefore, although it was a difficult decision, I must decline your offer. I do
appreciate all the courtesy and hospitality extended to me by your office, and
I wish you well in your endeavors.
In the position I have accepted with Public Policy Watch, I will occasionally
be on Capitol Hill to attend hearings and monitor legislation, so I hope we
can get together again and talk about common interests.
Best regards,
Martin Chang
Martin Chang
Withdrawing From Job Search, via Email;

Follow-Up to Phone Call
March 1, 20XX
Ms. Vera L. Clark
Green Magazine
1515 New York Ave., N.W.
Washington, DC 20006
vclark@greenmag.com
Dear Ms. Clark:
I want to express my sincerest appreciation to you for including me
in the interview process as you seek candidates for your magazines
Editorial Assistant position. I have enjoyed meeting with the
members of your staff and think you have an outstanding operation.
However, to confirm our telephone conversation of this morning, I
respectfully withdraw from consideration for your position. I have
just accepted another employment offer which I believe very closely
matches my current skills and career goals.
I wish you and the staff of Green Magazine the best of success. I
hope we will have the chance to visit at the upcoming Magazine
Writers Conference. Thank you again for the opportunity to explore
career possibilities with your office.
Again, thank you for offering me this exciting opportunity.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Amanda Vonn
1234 College Road
(540) 555-0000
avonn@vt.edu
Rebecca Atkinson
Virginia Tech
Paula Morgan
76
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2016-2017 Career Planning Guide

Virginia Tech Blacksburg Campus

Career and Professional Development