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Resume Writing Tips

The foundation of a successful job search is an effective resume.

The purpose of a resume is to get the applicant a job interview by generating the employer's interest in the applicant and their qualifications for the position.

For resume assistance, email your resume to resume@louisiana.edu for an email resume review or schedule a Resume Review appointment today through your account. Once logged in, go to Career Center + Appointments.

 

UL 色妹AV Career Services presenting to students on Resume Writing Tips.

Resume Writing Resources

Your resume is your opportunity to show what makes you shine! Check out all of our resources below to get started or take your resume to the next level.

A Career Services representative helps a UL 色妹AV student with their resume

Resume Packet

Need a single packet with a resume checklist, skill identifiers, and a general sample resume? You're in luck!

Download it here!

Basic Categories to Include on Your Resume

  • Full name
  • Complete address (both permanent and present, if different)
  • Phone Number
  • Email address

Make sure that your voice mail and email address are professional and appropriate for a potential employer.
 

  • Gives your resume focus; tailor it to the position you are applying for.
  • A single phrase expressing the specific type of employment you are seeking and/or the specific skills or abilities you want to use on the job.
     

  • List in reverse chronological order with the highest degree or education first
  • Include university/college/school name and location, degree, date of graduation (or expected graduation), major, related coursework and possibly GPA
  • May also include honors, awards, scholarships, dissertation, and thesis topics
  • List licenses earned or training certificates received
     

  • Start with your most recent employment and work backward
  • Includes full-time, part-time, seasonal, internships, co-op, or volunteer work
  • Provide names and location of employers, dates of employment (month/year to month/year)
  • Describe your duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments using short, powerful phrases beginning with action verbs. Quantify and qualify data with specific details and statistics whenever possible
     

  • List extracurricular activities that demonstrate skills, accomplishments and leadership, teamwork, self-management, and organization
  • Include computer skills and/or foreign languages
  • Personal accomplishments
  • Unique experiences such as travel to a foreign country or study abroad
     

You should have a separate reference page. Generally, this page will have the same heading as the resume and will list the name, title, employer, business mailing address and phone number of 3 to 5 academic or business references. Obtain permission from each reference before giving to a prospective employer and give each a copy of your resume.