Career Guide 2018-20 - CAREER ADVANCEMENT - Northwestern University
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CONTENTS 1 Career Planning 2 Strategy for undergraduates 4 Strategy for graduate students 5 Networking: Connecting with Others 6 Step by step 8 Informational interviews 9 Résumés 9 Setting up your document 10 Building better bullets 10 Action verbs 11 Transferable skills 12 Putting it together 14 Examples 19 Résumé and CV Writing for Graduate Students 20 Examples 24 Cover Letters 26 Examples 28 Interviewing 31 Common interview questions 32 Virtual and phone interviews 33 Attire 34 Thank-You Notes 36 LinkedIn: Job Searching and Networking 38 Finding Job and Internship Opportunities SEE AN NCA CAREER ADVISER FOR • networking and job and internship search strategies 41 Career fairs • interview preparation, including mock interviews 42 Negotiating the offer • résumé and cover letter reviews 44 Hiring activity by industry • help with negotiating an offer SEE AN NCA CAREER COUNSELOR FOR HELP WITH • deciding on a major • exploring career paths and taking career assessments • developing a career plan • applying to graduate or professional school CAREER ADVANCEMENT CAREER ADVANCEMENT
CAREER PLANNING Career Planning LAYING THE GROUNDWORK Start early. ∑ Career development is important at Career planning involves assessing every stage of your academic career, not yourself, exploring your options, making just at graduation. Beginning early allows you to build a wide range of experiences decisions, and taking action to achieve and explore a variety of industries, and your career goals. The process will help gives you time to change your mind along the way. you make well-informed decisions during Know yourself. your years at Northwestern and beyond. ∑ Take time to explore how your interests Although each person’s experience and skills intersect with different career will be unique, these key points apply paths to help you communicate the value you can bring to employers. to everyone. Remember that your major does not dictate your career. ∑ All fields of study foster a broad range of skills that will equip you for a number of occupations. Career Development Model Plan ahead, but not too far. ∑ You might become overwhelmed when considering your long-term career pros- pects. Think instead about what knowl- ➤ edge or skills you want to gain in the next ASSESS year or two, and be open to new experi- Analyze your interests, EXPLORE ences that may pop up along the way. values, and skills to Research and identify career fields, work Don’t be afraid to change your path. investigate a range of environments, lifestyles, career options that ∑ Career development is a continual and and job functions that you interest you. flexible process that adapts to inevitable want to explore. changes in your interests and the work- place. No career decision is irreversible. REFLECT ➤ ➤ Meet with a career counselor ACT early in your first year. It will equip Obtain hands-on DECIDE you with knowledge about yourself experience through Evaluate your options and and resources available to you, internships, full-time narrow your selections to and part-time positions, the few that are the best setting you up to make the most and campus or matches for you. of your four years at Northwestern.” volunteer activities. —Andrew ’19 ➤ 1
CAREER GUIDE Career-planning strategy for undergraduates Work with a Northwestern Career Advancement (NCA) counselor or adviser to adapt the plan for your goals. Not every item will apply to your unique situation. First year Sophomore year ASSESS ASSESS ☐ Reflect on what activities and experiences ☐ Reflect on your first year of college, specifically you’ve enjoyed in the past and why. on what you learned about yourself. ☐ Identify your interests, values, and skills by taking the ☐ Meet with an NCA career counselor career and personality assessments offered at NCA. to clarify your career interests. ☐ Learn about the many opportunities, programs, and ☐ Think about how your skills, values, organizations Northwestern has to offer. interests, and experiences intersect. EXPLORE EXPLORE ☐ Explore your interests by getting involved in one or two ☐ Use LinkedIn and Our Northwestern to view alumni student organizations or volunteer opportunities. in your major or who work in an industry of interest. ☐ Enroll in classes that allow you to try out fields that interest you. ☐ Conduct informational interviews each quarter with ☐ Research multiple careers and industries using resources on the NCA alumni, industry professionals, or personal contacts. website, including Vault and the Occupational Outlook Handbook. ☐ Enhance your leadership experience in student ☐ Attend programs and events sponsored by NCA, organizations by chairing a committee, initiating academic departments, and student organizations. a project, or running for a position. ☐ Prioritize your goals, time, and commitments as you adjust to life as a first-year student. DECIDE ☐ Narrow the types of opportunities you want to pursue. DECIDE ☐ Develop a search strategy with an NCA ☐ Meet with an NCA career adviser to create a personalized career plan. career adviser and explore opportunities (internships, jobs, volunteering). ☐ Determine what skills you have to offer and which skills you want ☐ Declare an academic major and meet with to develop in your upcoming commitments and experiences. your academic adviser if you’re considering ☐ Consider opportunities to gain experience, such as research, changing your major or school. study abroad, internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work. ☐ International students: Attend International Office walk-in hours ACT to understand Curricular Practical Training (CPT) procedures. ☐ Update your résumé, LinkedIn profile, and Handshake account to include first- and second-year experiences. ACT ☐ Establish new contacts using LinkedIn ☐ Convert your high school résumé into a professional and Our Northwestern. document and enhance it using VMock. ☐ Participate in career fairs, career treks, ☐ Activate your Handshake account and choose your profile preferences. and employer/alumni events to learn about ☐ Create a LinkedIn profile and begin to build your network by different industries, jobs, and internships. connecting with academic and personal contacts and joining groups. ☐ Apply for opportunities using targeted ☐ Request informational interviews with people résumés and cover letters. you know whose careers interest you. ☐ Seek guidance from family and friends as ☐ Pursue summer opportunities that align with your skills you navigate the search process. and with experiences you want to explore. ☐ If you’re considering graduate school, connect with ☐ Talk with family and friends and keep them your professors to establish strong relationships. informed of your experiences. 2
CAREER PLANNING Junior year Senior year ASSESS ASSESS ☐ Identify what you’ve learned from each internship, ☐ Reflect on how your values and interests might job, and student experience thus far. determine your choice of work setting. ☐ Enhance your awareness of your skills and values ☐ Think about your college experience—both the by completing a Motivated Skills or Values Card defining moments you’ve had and the additional Sort with an NCA career counselor. experiences you want to gain before graduation. ☐ Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses and ☐ If you don’t have a clear career focus, meet how they impact your career goals. with an NCA career counselor. EXPLORE EXPLORE ☐ Research industries, positions, and employers of interest ☐ Research positions and employers of using Vault, LinkedIn, and company websites. interest in your target industries. ☐ Identify the skills you want to develop and use ☐ Network at employer information sessions, alumni in your upcoming internships and jobs. events, coffee chats, and career fairs to expand ☐ Throughout the academic year and summer, connect your knowledge of job opportunities. with an NCA career adviser to evaluate ☐ Talk with peers about how they are balancing their search opportunities for gaining experience. process with academics and extracurricular activities. ☐ Talk with alumni and other contacts to learn about ☐ Learn about and implement search techniques for your their career experiences and considerations. industry by meeting with an NCA career adviser. DECIDE DECIDE ☐ Determine “must-haves” and “must-not-haves” as ☐ Give yourself permission to pursue what most interests you. they relate to opportunities you’re exploring. ☐ Narrow your employment pursuits to one or two industries. ☐ Select an experience that will provide relevant skill ☐ Reach out to alumni and your contacts to inform them of your development for your desired career path. search, even if they work outside your target industries. ☐ Identify two or three industries to consider for full- ☐ Develop a list of alternatives should you need to consider options time employment after graduation and learn about other than your top-choice career field or graduate program. their recruiting timelines and processes. ☐ International students: Meet with an International Office adviser to understand Optional Practical Training (OPT), ACT the STEM extension, and H-1B visa considerations. ☐ Tailor your résumé and LinkedIn profile to the industries and employers you’re considering. ☐ If you’re considering graduate school, complete required ACT admissions tests and begin preparing applications. ☐ Continue to network with alumni via LinkedIn, Our Northwestern, and the Northwestern Alumni Association Mentoring Program. ☐ Apply for positions before their deadlines, and be prepared for rejection—a common occurrence in the search process. ☐ Contact the Office of Fellowships for information about career-related fellowships. ☐ Strengthen your interviewing skills through a mock interview with an NCA career adviser. ☐ Polish the professional introduction you plan to use during events with employers and alumni. ☐ Identify references and request permission to use them in applications for jobs or graduate programs. ☐ Prioritize your target industries and employers and consider how to balance your other commitments ☐ Accept an offer for full-time employment or graduate school. with a job or internship search. ☐ Practice interviewing skills in a mock interview with an NCA career adviser. 3
CAREER GUIDE Career-planning strategy for graduate students This three-phase career-planning guide is tailored for master’s and PhD students to develop capacities through their research, teaching, and leadership and program-specific internships. Master’s Knowledge Engagement Strategy Beginning of • Learn about career resources •M eet with a career adviser or • I dentify career paths your program at Northwestern counselor at NCA or the career to pursue • Explore job and industry center that aligns with your area •U nderstand recruiting options for your degree of study timelines based on your • Determine whether an •A ttend graduate-student- experience and industry internship works for your focused career workshops program and schedule and events on such topics as networking, interviewing, and job searching Midway • Explore alumni and networking •A ttend recruiting events, •S eek an internship through your resources (e.g., NAA, NEXT, employer information sessions, opportunity (depending on program Mentoring Platform) and career programs your program duration) • Review job descriptions of •D etermine the gaps in positions that interest you your skill set and pursue opportunities to build the skills needed for your industry Conclusion of • Explore and research •C onnect with professionals and •W ith an NCA adviser, develop your program employers in your industry and alumni in your fields of interest a plan to apply to jobs or consider how they align with to better position yourself for postdegree opportunities your career goals and values the job search •R evise and tailor your résumé PhDs Knowledge Engagement Strategy Beginning of • Develop a foundation in •A ttend discipline-specific panel • I dentify potential mentors and your program discipline-specific research discussions with faculty and research collaborators skills and conventions through visiting experts graduate curriculum Midway • Master oral and written •D evelop and maintain • Take advantage of through your genres of your discipline relationships with mentors professional development program through seminar, group, and and peers certifications and graduate conference presentations •E xplore leadership and assistantships and written media engagement opportunities on •P ursue outside funding • Develop knowledge of career campus, including graduate options for the second fields by engaging with faculty, student organizations and through fifth year in order to alumni, NCA programming, and fellowships have flexibility to bank a sixth career counselors and advisers year if necessary Conclusion of • Gain in-depth, hands-on •C onnect with alumni from •E nsure your professional your program knowledge about specific Northwestern and previous online presence is up to date careers of interest through institutions to learn more about •P repare field-specific on-campus opportunities or the job search process and application materials internships opportunities for advanced- (e.g., CVs, résumés, cover • Begin reviewing job postings degree candidates letters, research statements, to help you articulate how your teaching philosophy, and research experiences align sample syllabi) with positions of interest 4
NETWORKING Networking: Connecting with Others One of the best ways to learn about yourself and your career interests is by speaking with people who work in your fields of interest. Don’t let the term networking intimidate you—talking with others is something you do every day. THE VALUE OF A CONVERSATION The type of conversation you have will be informed NETWORKING IN ACTION by where you are in your career exploration and planning. Approaching each conversation with the INFORMAL EXAMPLE: While flying genuine intention of learning and connecting makes home to visit his family, Tyson interactions more effective to mentioned to a nearby passenger • Explore careers and industries that he was relieved to have a break from his • Gain specific insight and advice studies. This remark launched a conversation. • Establish long-term contacts Tyson quickly learned that the passenger was a hospital administrator—a career option he was WHAT DOES NETWORKING LOOK LIKE? exploring—in a neighboring town. Because networking is all about having a conversa- FORMAL EXAMPLE: While at a tion, it can take place anywhere. Conversations can be regional sorority conference, Maya informal or structured exchanges and range from a was assigned to a table with other student leaders one-minute elevator ride to a three-hour dinner. The opportunity to connect is all around you. and alumnae volunteers. During the conversation, As a Northwestern student, you can participate in a she learned that one alumna worked at an variety of events and programs that provide an oppor- organization Maya had recently applied to for a tunity to connect with others. Most events are free to summer internship. At the end of the session, she you as a student; many programs with participation stayed to talk about this coincidence and then fees offer financial support or discounted rates. asked for the alum’s contact information. Possibilities for networking include alumni events, career fairs and treks, conferences, employer infor- mation sessions and site visits, externships, guest- speaker events, and industry panels. 5
CAREER GUIDE STEP 1 STEP 3 Find contacts Prepare for conversation Your list of contacts includes a broad range of people both Good preparation will enhance your dialogue and help in and outside your field. Contacts fall into two categories: you leave a positive impression. Here are a few things People you know friends, family, neighbors, you can do in advance: coworkers, professors • Research the industry and company People you don’t know but connect with through • Determine what you want to learn and alumni groups, honor societies, professional organizations, develop a list of questions to ask employer-hosted events, social networking websites • Review your academic, extracurricular, An easy way to expand your network is by asking people and work experiences you know to introduce you to people they know who work • Identify and be able to talk about your in your field. career interests and skills • Practice your introduction and talking about your experiences STEP 2 Initiate contact OUTREACH AFTER REFERRAL Email is the most common way to reach out. It allows To: Joseph Goldberg you to be comprehensive yet concise and to edit what Subject: Contact Referral from William Allen you say before sending. Your message should include the following: Dear Mr. Goldberg, My name is Grace Leonard and I am a sophomore at • Introduction Northwestern University. I hope you were expecting my • Who referred you/how you found the contact email, as my uncle William Allen had mentioned that he • What you have in common (if applicable) spoke with you regarding my engineering background. In my conversations with him, he suggested that you • Why you’re reaching out/what you hope to learn would be a great person to talk with about my interest •A specific request (such as 20 to 30 minutes in supply chain. I’d love to meet in person at your to meet or talk) convenience to gain more insight into the career path and range of opportunities in the industry, as well as seek your advice for my career planning. Please let me know INITIAL OUTREACH if you are available in the coming weeks. Thank you in advance. To: Bennett Sanders Subject: Northwestern Student Seeking Career Advice Mr. Sanders, My name is Erika Liu and I am a first-year student at Northwestern University pursuing a degree in biology, with After sending an email, be longer-term goals of a dual degree in law and medicine. After searching for Northwestern alumni on LinkedIn, I patient while waiting for a was excited to find your profile. It seems your career path response. If you haven’t heard mirrors my plan, and I was especially interested to see that you specialize in child-advocacy law. I am eager to back after two weeks, you can learn from your story and experiences as I plan for life send a gentle follow-up. If your beyond Northwestern. Please let me know if you are willing to connect for 20 to 30 minutes in person at your second attempt is unsuccessful, convenience. Go ’Cats! move on to other contacts who may be more receptive. 6
NETWORKING POSTINTRODUCTION OUTREACH STEP 5 To: Jackie Morrison After the meeting Subject: Northwestern Career Panelist Follow-Up Review highlights of your conversation—it’s helpful to take Dear Jackie Morrison, notes about your exchanges so you can remember details and It was a pleasure to meet you this past week at the have a point of reference later. Specifically, answer the follow- Northwestern career panel. I know you spoke with ing questions: many students so I wanted to reintroduce myself. I am • What information did you gain and what is still missing? a senior pursuing a degree in communication studies with an interest in a career as a data analyst. In our • How did the exchange impact your overall career goals? brief conversation, you mentioned that although your • What are the next steps in your preparation? training wasn’t in data analysis, it’s a skill that you have developed in your work. As someone with a similar Within two days, send a thank-you note highlighting the background and career aspirations, I would value the value of the meeting and explicitly stating what you learned. opportunity to connect with you in person or by phone to continue our conversation. I look forward to learning more from you. STEP 6 Maintain contact Because one exchange is just the start of the relationship, STEP 4 consider how to maintain connections. Aim to connect with your contacts quarterly—set reminders on your calendar Engage so your good intentions are not lost. Consider mailing sea- sonal greeting cards, sending updates by email, forwarding Even before the meeting starts, you can make a interesting industry news and journal articles, and inviting positive impression by dressing appropriately for contacts to occasional coffee breaks. By connecting with the industry and by arriving early for face-to-face your contacts on LinkedIn, you will be updated on any career encounters. For phone or virtual meetings, secure changes they may make in the future. This provides a good a quiet space with good internet service and wait opportunity to send a note of congratulations. until the scheduled time to call. It’s important to stay organized to manage your contacts. Start the conversation with your professional intro- Create a spreadsheet with each contact’s name, date of duction and thank contacts for their willingness to exchange, outcome, and important notes and action items. talk with you. Use your prepared questions as a guide Review your log periodically to ensure you’re maintaining to let the dialogue progress naturally. Demonstrate your contacts and making progress on your action items. a genuine interest in what your contacts say and ask relevant follow-up questions. While the focus will be on learning about your con- STAYING IN CONTACT tacts, assume that they will also want to learn about To: Amit Goel you. Be comfortable articulating your skills, values, and interests, as well as how your experiences have Subject: Article You May Enjoy influenced your career interests. Dear Amit, It’s important to respect your contacts’ schedules I hope this note finds you well and you’re enjoying the holiday and stay within the allotted time. As meetings near season! Thank you again for taking the time to chat with me a few an end, express appreciation for contacts’ time and months ago. I am continuing to research the field and feel that I am contribution to your learning. It’s also valuable to ask making great progress in refining my understanding of business about staying connected and for referrals of other development’s various contexts. I just came across this article about people to talk with. negotiating commercial partnerships in the nonprofit industry and immediately thought about our conversation. I hope you enjoy it! 7
CAREER GUIDE Informational interviews Informational interviews are a form of networking. They are especially useful when you don’t have much knowledge about a career field, have limited work experience, or are considering a career transition. I’ve worked hard to connect with people in my fields of interest to better decide which path to take upon ASKING QUESTIONS graduation. I’ve used the Northwestern Ask about topics that you genuinely want more informa- Mentorship Program to meet regularly tion about. Develop a list of 10 to 15 relevant questions. with an alumni mentor, participated Sample questions in NEXT, networked with professionals in different roles, and sought out • What is your background? What was your career path? internship experiences in a variety • How did you know this field was the right fit for you? of fields. All these experiences have • What are the major responsibilities of your position? helped me get a better sense of what • If there is such a thing as an average I like, what I don’t, and what career week, what is it like for you? options I am most excited about.” • What are the positive and negative aspects of working in this field? —Yvonne ’19 • What has surprised you most since entering this industry/type of work? • What do you see as the hot issues and trends in this field? I approach networking with genuine curiosity. During job interviews, • How can I become a more competitive I bring up things I’ve learned during candidate in this industry? informational interviews, and that • What advice do you have for me moving forward? always impresses employers. It • Can you recommend anyone else for me to contact? shows I’ve done the research and • May I keep in touch with you and am genuinely interested.” let you know my progress? —Jaelon ’20 RESPONDING TO QUESTIONS Always approach networking The more your contacts get to know you, the more helpful they can be. With this in mind, be prepared to with the mindset of gaining more talk about yourself. information about roles you are interested in and building meaningful Questions you may be asked relationships. Never go into an • How did you choose Northwestern? informational interview asking for a • What are you studying? Why did you job or asking for favors. If they are choose that academic area? impressed by you, they will want to • When did you first learn of this industry? help you down the road.” —Natalie ’18 • Why are you interested in pursuing a career in this industry? • What activities are you involved in on campus? • How are you preparing for a career in this industry? 8
RÉSUMÉS Résumés Your résumé is an overview of your education, experiences, and skills and is used to market your strengths to potential employers. Before writing a résumé, identify what skills employers value by reviewing job descriptions of careers that interest you. Setting up your document LENGTH 1 page for under- ALIGNMENT Use left graduate students; 2 pages alignment; don’t justify for graduate students the text FONT SIZE 10–12 point for FORMAT Use bolding and SHOULD I USE A CV INSTEAD? body of résumé—use the italics for emphasis and to A CV (curriculum vitae) has a same size throughout; help the reader quickly scan different meaning in the United 14–24 point for your name your résumé States than in other countries. In the United States, a CV refers to FONTS Easy-to-read fonts BULLET POINTS Aim for a comprehensive and detailed include Arial, Book Antiqua, 2–5 bullets per experience document used when applying Calibri, Cambria, Centaur, NUMBERS Use numerals for to academic, medical, research, Century Gothic, Garamond, numbers (6 instead of six; and teaching positions. It is most Helvetica, Palatino Linotype, 30% instead of thirty percent) commonly used at the graduate and Times New Roman to make them stand out level, although undergraduates may use a CV when applying for MARGINS 0.5–1 inches ORDER In each section, grants, scholarships, and research on all sides; ideal margin list information in reverse opportunities. When you’re width is 0.75 inches chronological order (put your applying outside these industries SPACING Single-spaced most recent experience first) in other countries, a US-style lines are acceptable, but use PHRASING Don’t use résumé is generally recommended double-spaced lines between even when a CV is requested. full sentences or personal sections and experiences pronouns (such as I, my, and our) It is important to invest your time and effort into the quality rather than the quantity of job or internship applications that you submit. I have much more success when I thoroughly research an opportunity, tailor my materials specifically to it, connect with professionals in the company, and put my best effort into the application.” —Rory ’18 9
CAREER GUIDE Building better bullets ACTION VERBS Analytical Leadership Quantitative Writing a bullet point goes beyond simply stating Analyzed Administered Allocated what you did; it requires highlighting a specific Compared Attained Appraised skill and how you used it. To do this, follow Conducted Delegated Assessed these steps: Customized Directed Audited Designed Diversified Balanced 1. Make a list of each experience you’ve had, Developed Enhanced Budgeted whether a volunteer position, full-time job, Evaluated Established Calculated internship, or role in a student organization. Examined Expedited Computed Extracted Improved Conserved 2. Picture what you did on a typical day during a Formulated Increased Estimated busy week. Select three to five words from the Identified Initiated Forecasted action verbs list to convey the skills you used Integrated Led Managed that day. Interpreted Managed Projected Investigated Oversaw Reconciled 3. For each verb, ask yourself what you did and Modeled Prioritized Reduced how you did it. Performed Produced Researched Reorganized Teaching 4. Reflect on the significance of your work. Solved Represented Accommodated Consider deliverables, impact, value, and Synthesized Streamlined Coached results. Tested Strengthened Conducted Validated Supervised Coordinated 5. Whenever possible, use numbers to describe Critiqued the scope of your work. Communication Marketing Educated Addressed Advertised Enabled Authored Attained Encouraged Collaborated Created Evaluated Put these steps into practice using this formula: Communicated Delivered Facilitated Consulted Devised Guided ACTION VERB + WHAT YOU DID + HOW YOU DID IT Discussed Exceeded Individualized Here’s an example of how a student described Edited Expanded Instructed his work as a server at the Main Street Café: Illustrated Generated Motivated Interviewed Improved Stimulated • Coordinated dinner service for fast- Moderated Launched Taught paced restaurant that served up Persuaded Marketed Trained to 500 customers a night Presented Promoted Proposed Publicized Technical • Trained 15 new hires in restaurant Published Secured Adapted policies, customer-service skills, and Recruited Surpassed Applied Reported Transformed Calculated problem-solving techniques Constructed • Managed point-of-sale operations to Interpersonal Organizational Converted streamline payment process for customers Addressed Arranged Designed Authored Categorized Developed Collaborated Coordinated Drafted Communicated Distributed Engineered Consulted Expedited Installed Discussed Executed Invented Don’t be afraid to push your résumé Edited Generated Operated to your contacts at a company you like. Illustrated Implemented Overhauled It’s that kind of respectful eagerness Interviewed Maintained Programmed that will get you an interview.” Moderated Organized Prototyped Persuaded Planned Regulated —Jack ’18 Presented Prepared Remodeled Proposed Restructured Restored Published Reviewed Upgraded Recruited Submitted Reported Systematized 10
RÉSUMÉS Transferable skills Transferable skills are a core set of abilities that can be applied to a wide range of jobs and industries. Use this chart to identify the skills you’ve gained in your experiences—from volunteering and internships to course projects. Skills employers seek Consider a time when you… Undergraduate Graduate Analytical thinking/ • Used logic or reasoning to solve a problem • Reviewed literature and synthesized problem solving • Planned a budget for a student organization findings for academic research • Strategized how to approach an • Identified themes or patterns in data experiment more effectively • Synthesized data for a course or project • Recognized the core issue within extensive data Communication • Solicited funds for a student organization event • Taught complex concepts to beginners • Persuaded others to successfully complete a project • Presented academic research at • Wrote or edited material conferences and in publications • Wrote a successful grant proposal • Led presentations to students or customers Leadership • Managed a volunteer project • Led productive class discussions • Recognized change was necessary • Managed a student organization, and initiated progress research team, or conference • Delegated tasks • Mobilized group decision-making • Trained students or staff • Supervised students or staff Creativity • Designed a website or marketing promotion • Used visuals to clearly convey a point • Built a prototype for a class • Restructured an experimental process • Developed an innovative approach to a problem • Taught a difficult concept in a more creative way Teamwork • Partnered effectively with group members • Collaborated with challenging lab or team members for a project • Participated in creative planning • Recognized a shared team goal and and brainstorming sessions found ways to be inclusive • Delegated tasks and came together • Overcame a challenge in a student organization to integrate findings Organization/ • Generated a timeline for goals • Balanced simultaneous major projects, project • Contributed to multiple projects simultaneously class deadlines, and research needs management • Arranged or categorized information • Created a more efficient organizational solution Resilience • Failed at something and recovered quickly • Handled rejection of a publication, • Used personal strength and fortitude thesis draft, or research idea to overcome a challenge • Recognized a professional weakness and devised • Sought support and expertise strategies to build strength in that area Initiative/ • Completed an assignment with little direction • Sought ways to enhance professional development self-starter • Proposed or implemented a new idea • Learned a skill or technique to add value to a project 11
CAREER GUIDE Putting it together Once you’ve thought about identifying and describing what 4 A leadership section is increasingly important to recruit- you can offer, you can organize your résumé using some of ers of undergraduates. Include organization names, posi- the following categories. You can vary this typical sequence tions held, dates, projects, significant contributions, and to suit your unique experiences. In general, an undergraduate skills and abilities demonstrated. This section should be résumé should be kept to one page, though there are excep- formatted with bullet points, similar to the experience tions in certain industries. section. 1 Contact information includes your full name, permanent 5 The activities and community involvement section and/or school address, telephone number, and email showcases your contribution to the on- and off-campus address, usually in boldface, larger type. Include only communities, usually organized in a list format. Include one phone number and one email address. Don’t include positions held, organization names, locations, and dates. personal information such as Social Security number, physical traits, race, ethnicity, or citizenship. 6 Skills is often the final section on a résumé, where you reiterate your qualifications or showcase additional rele- 2 The education section includes your school’s name, loca- vant competencies. Language and computer proficiency tion, degree type, anticipated graduation date, major(s), and training certifications are among the skills typically minor(s), and GPA. If you have more than one degree, listed. Make sure to include your level of expertise or place the highest or most recent first. Listing relevant fluency with each skill, such as advanced, proficient, coursework and academic honors and awards is optional. intermediate, or beginner. 3 The experience section aligns your past experiences with 7 Interests is an optional section. Many employers appre- your current pursuits. It may include full-time, part-time, ciate getting to know you a little better, beyond your and summer employment; student teaching; internships; formal training and experiences. If you choose to list practicums; academic research; and volunteer work. You interests, be specific, authentic, and appropriate. can choose headings for various categories that best market your experiences, such as Relevant Experience, Professional Experience, or Research Experience. List experiences in reverse chronological order, providing VMock, a 24/7 virtual résumé assistant, the organization name and location, your position title, provides instant tailored feedback based on and dates employed. For each, include three to five bullet Northwestern standards and employer criteria. points about how you applied your skills to a task VMock can even identify careers that fit you best or project. and provide actionable recommendations that strengthen your candidacy. To get started, visit the NCA website. 12
RÉSUMÉS MADELINE WENDLE 1 66 Emerson St | Evanston, IL 60201 m-wendle2019@u.northwestern.edu | (812) 555-7164 EDUCATION Northwestern University Evanston, IL; Expected June 2019 Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Studies | Minor: Arabic 2 Cumulative GPA: 3.73/4.00 | Dean’s List: 7 of 9 quarters Relevant Courses: Ethics in International Relations, Politics of the Middle East, Human Rights & Foreign Policy American University in Cairo, Study Abroad Cairo, Egypt; September – December 2018 RELEVANT EXPERIENCE US State Department Critical Language Arabic Immersion Program, Participant Salalah, Oman; June – August 2018 • Studied Arabic through immersion and intensive coursework, including 4 hours of daily formal instruction • Mentored by Omani student at Dhofar University; practiced speaking for 1½ hours a day • Learned about local customs and religion; traveled throughout Oman • Received highest grade in class of 34 students 3 Cook County Juvenile Courts Public Defender’s Office, Legal Intern Chicago, IL; June – August 2017 • Researched topics pertaining to juvenile law to become better aware of relevant cases • Interviewed clients prior to trial and obtained valid information for cases • Docketed files and cross-referenced data to the proper cases for future reference • Created Excel spreadsheets to classify and report information to Public Defenders • Responded to client inquiries, fielded calls, and maintained database of 350 contacts LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Pi Beta Phi Sorority, Vice President of Finance Northwestern University; January 2017– Present • Manage finances for organization of 100+ people using Quickbooks software, both accounts payable and receivable • Serve as liaison between the chapter and House Corporation; oversee the House Manager • Research and create $65,000 budget, including alternative means of funds investment 4 • Reevaluate and revise budget, leading to a 20% reduction in dues in 2015–16, the largest in chapter history Model Arab League, Member Northwestern University; September 2016 – Present • Strengthen collaboration and ensure strategic goal alignment as a liaison between the Northwestern University league and other regional universities • Represent Saudi Arabia on Palestinian Affairs Council in regional conference in Oxford, Ohio in February 2017 to simulate Arab League debate and problem-solving ACTIVITIES Analytics Team Member, Institute for Student Business Education (ISBE) April 2016 – Present 5 Sponsorship Committee, Dance Marathon September 2015 – Present Tutor, Northwestern University Athletic Department September 2015 – June 2017 SKILLS 6 Modern Standard Arabic: fluent; Egyptian Arabic dialect: conversational; Spanish: proficient Microsoft Excel: proficient 7 INTERESTS: Waterskiing, Historical Fiction Novels, Jazz Performances 13
CAREER GUIDE Frank Thompson frankthompson8@u.northwestern.edu (654) 555-4321 Campus Address: Permanent Address: 1871 Chicago Avenue 4295 West 8th Street Evanston, IL 60201 Canton, MA 02021 EDUCATION Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, anticipated June 2021 Minor in Business Institutions Cumulative GPA: 3.14/4.00 Honors: Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society, Dean’s List 2 of 3 quarters Relevant Coursework: Macroeconomics, Public Speaking, Complex Organizations, Organizational Effectiveness LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Northwestern University Office of Admissions, Evanston, Illinois Tour Guide, Sept. 2018 – Present • Represent Northwestern University to groups of 15+ prospective students and families • Address inquiries and concerns from families and prospective students Canton Middle School, Canton, Massachusetts Tutor, May 2018 – Aug. 2018 HIGH SCHOOL experiences • Provided individualized tutoring to students in grades 6 through 8 • Assessed educational needs of students and tailored homework assignments accordingly can be included before • Met with lead teachers to discuss recommended curriculum and shared student concerns junior year of college. North Canton High School Swim Team, Canton, Massachusetts Captain, Sept. 2016 – March 2017 • Coordinated and led practice for 24 swim team members • Led goal-setting activities to improve stroke skill and decrease speed times • Organized weekly team breakfasts and 15+ events throughout season to promote team spirit WORK EXPERIENCE Bridgeview Day Camp, Milwaukee, Wisconsin Lifeguard and Swim Instructor, June 2016 – Aug. 2016; June 2017 – Aug. 2017 • Supervised 8 lifeguards to ensure the safety and instruction of approximately 200 children • Designed and implemented swimming program for children with developmental disabilities • Coordinated staff training program to ensure high level of swim instruction for students Paddington Family Restaurant, Milwaukee, Wisconsin William Carter Host, June 2014 – Aug. 2014; June 2015 – Aug. 2015 • Maintained seating arrangement of restaurant to ensure maximum satisfaction of customers and staff 700 South Blvd. • Responded(847) 555-1500questions, managed customer complaints, and consulted with management to customer Evanston, IL 60202 wcarter@u.northwestern.edu • Contributed to major event planning, including developing event promotions and soliciting volunteers EDUCATION ACTIVITIES Northwestern University: Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Evanston, IL Participant, Dance Marathon, March 2018 Bachelor of Arts, June 2021 Volunteer, Lutheran General Hospital, Sept. 2014 – May 2017 Major: Economics | Minor: Business Institutions | GPA: 3.24/4.0 SKILLS Relevant Courses: Microeconomics; Macroeconomics; Statistics for Social Sciences; Applied Econometrics; Computer: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Introduction to Integrated Marketing Communications Language: Proficient in Spanish ACADEMIC PROJECTS Accounting & Finance: Amazon Analysis Project Spring 2018 • Critically analyzed 100-page annual report for Amazon to identify Acid Test Ratio, Inventory Turnover, and Return on Investment in order to increase 2016 profit margin by 87% • Compared quarterly reports with the competitor and isolated areas of development for company to address • Gained strong understanding of quarterly balance sheets (assets, liabilities, and shareholders’ equity) and income statements (quarterly performance for revenues and expenses) Introduction to Applied Econometrics: Regression Analysis using STATA Fall 2018 • Utilized online resources to self-teach STATA programming language in an 8-week timeframe • Analyzed demographic data and created a regression chart correlating demographic data to wages LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Basketball Representative, Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC), Evanston, IL Fall 2017-Present • Selected by coaches and academic advisors as representative for men’s basketball team • Present issues and opportunities around campus and Evanston community to athletic department • Develop community service events for 150+ local youth • Relay ideas, questions, and concerns from teammates and other student athletes to campus administrators • Create promotional videos and e-mails to attract peers to SAAC events Member, Northwestern University Basketball Team, Evanston, IL Fall 2017-Present • Demonstrate the importance of teamwork and clear communication in a highly competitive environment • Balance academics with 20+ hours of athletic commitments each week STUDENT ATHLETES should Critically analyze 350 offensive/defensive plays during the course of a season focus on leadership and • • Assess opponent schemes and provide counter plays in a fast-paced manner • • Practice conflict resolution skills to ensure healthy team atmosphere and focus on yearly team goals Earned Academic All Big Ten Honors in 2017-18 transferable skills. Mentor, Peers Urging Responsible Practice through Leadership & Education, Evanston, IL Fall 2017-Present • Provide an equal-opportunity environment for student athletes to share issues and opportunities in the community • Implement new campus resources designed to enhance student athlete life at Northwestern • Chosen by athletic administrators to make influential decisions benefitting student athletes WORK EXPERIENCE Counselor, Northwestern Men’s Basketball Camp, Evanston, IL Summer 2018 • Taught basketball skills and encouraged campers to achieve goals through strong work ethic and dedication • Assessed 25 campers’ skill levels and developed a personalized training module for campers to increase skills SKILLS & INTERESTS Language: Basic knowledge of French and Spanish Technical: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; working knowledge in STATA Interests: Sports Statistics, Woodworking, and World Religions 14
RÉSUMÉS WENDY LEVINE 1590 Chicago Avenue #1812, Evanston, IL 60201 wendylevine2020@u.northwestern.edu ǀ (630) 555-6538 EDUCATION Northwestern University Evanston, IL Bachelor of Arts in Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences and Economics | Minor in Mathematics June 2020 Kellogg Certificate Program for Undergraduates in Managerial Analytics GPA: 3.76/4.00 | Dean’s List: 5 of 6 quarters Relevant Courses: Operations and Supply Chain Strategy, Corporate Finance, Econometrics, Consumer Analytics, Deterministic Models and Optimization, Competitive Strategy and Industrial Structure RELEVANT EXPERIENCE Bates White LLC Washington, DC Summer Consultant June 2018 – August 2018 • Analyzed over 15 million Medicaid claims data and sales data by a large generic drug company using STATA • Summarized and presented data analysis results for team meetings and client calls, using PowerPoint and Excel • Devised negotiation strategies in a 4-person team that can lead to over $40 million in potential savings for the client Provide SPECIFIC numbers, • Researched analyst reports and databases, created multiple charts, and drafted over 3,000 words for white paper on economic considerations of plasma donation percentages, and monetary CampusCATALYST Evanston, IL values when possible. Student Consultant April 2018 – June 2018 • Collaborated with 4 teammates to develop and present alumni relations and marketing strategies for Rainbows for All Children, an international nonprofit organization with over 100,000 annual beneficiaries • Conducted benchmarking analysis by interviewing 3 comparable organizations • Designed digital stakeholder feedback forms to improve communication and gain quantitative measurements of program impact Northwestern University School of Communication Evanston, IL Research Assistant September 2017 – April 2018 • Consolidated data from 6 sources by coding qualitative fields into quantitative variables for over 800 Chinese NGOs • Revised and distributed survey to over 200 nonprofit organizations on 5 continents; achieved 66% response rate • Constructed over 50 interview questions on behalf of CEOs and project managers representing 7 local nonprofits Where Rainbows Meet Training and Development Foundation Cape Town, South Africa Business Facilitator and Consultant June 2017 – August 2017 • Established online profile for local sewing products including 200 photos and over 5,000 words of description • Formed partnership with sewing product retailers and increased monthly revenue of the project by 70% • Assessed local entrepreneurs’ business plans and balance sheets, provided tailored business strategy recommendations LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Rhythm Dance Troupe Evanston, IL Secretary February 2017 – Present • Managed day-to-day intergroup communications and facilitated personalized outreach to 40 members • Choreographed Chinese ethnic dance trio and coordinated rehearsals over a time span of 3 months • Cooperated with more than 20 dancers and planned Annual Spring Show with an audience size of over 150 • Enhanced weekly newsletter content, contributing to 20% increase in event attendance and generating 15% increase in event profit Asian Pacific American Coalition Evanston, IL LIU (DANIEL)WEI Programming Chair March 2017 – March 2018 Liuwei2019@u.northwestern.edu ● (925)555-0946 • Led weekly meetings with 12 Junior Executive members and monthly general meetings with over 60 members to 2440 Green Bay Road, Rm. 621, Evanston, IL 60201 address important issues within the Asian American community • Reorganized Executive Board member responsibilities and restructured meetings, increasing meeting efficiency by over 35% EDUCATION • Exchanged programming ideas and developed programming partnerships with leaders of similar groups Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois ACTIVITIES Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Anticipated 6/19 Delta Gamma Fraternity, Member Cumulative GPA: 3.39/4.00 January 2017 – Present AIESEC, Treasurer February 2017 Relevant Courses: – March 2018 Mechanics of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, Managerial Analytics for Strategy, Thermodynamics, Engineering Analysis, Electronics Design, Deterministic Models and Optimization, Public Speaking SKILLS & INTERESTS Computer: Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and STATA Language: Fluent in Spanish RELEVANT EXPERIENCE Interests: Visiting Museums; Cooking French Food Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois Laboratory for Intelligent Mechanical Systems Research Assistant 6/18 – 9/18 • Conducted research with a PhD student on the haptic interaction between an electrostatic surface and a human finger • Assisted in the application of design-model comparison and iterative improvement of a device to cause a rigid surface to actively force a human finger by using electrostatic forces simultaneously triggered with lateral vibrations • Developed an artificial fingertip with electric and mechanical properties similar to a real human fingertip using semiconducting carbon-black-loaded elastomers, resistivity measurements and dynamic mechanical analysis • Designed and assembled a miniature lightweight accelerometer circuit board using EAGLE and flexible circuit boards Alimentos S.A., Guatemala City, Guatemala Engineering Project Management Intern 7/17 – 9/17 • Led the design and development of an innovative and cost-efficient product display method (patent pending) by coordinating materials acquisition and machine shop staff to produce prototypes in the shortest time possible • Minimized project implementation costs using raw material market research, iterative simplification of design, and dimension optimization to achieve a potential 6-digit annual savings figure for the company • Performed experiments to assess the performance of 3 ergonomic transport and delivery cartridges for client orders • Proposed a design for an improved order transport and delivery mechanism by combining all of the efficient and beneficial components from the previous designs and applying failure mode analysis and design thinking • Presented project progress and results to the President, General Manager, and majority of division directors at the company using PowerPoint; successfully convinced them of the profitability of its execution COURSE PROJECTS Design Thinking and Communication Course, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois Client: Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, Chicago, IL 4/16 – 6/16 can demonstrate • • Designed a self-sustaining pharmacy for a medical center in Migori, Kenya, using a repurposed shipping container Coordinated the selection of solar-powered ventilation and lighting systems for the pharmacy and the interior design technical, managerial, • • Organized the timely completion of assignments and motivated 4-person team to complete checkpoints before deadlines Wrote final report and instructions for construction of the pharmacy and presented the design to the client and teamwork skills. LEADERSHIP Northwestern University Formula Racing, Drivetrain Team Member 10/17 – Present • Contribute to designing, manufacturing and tuning the drivetrain components of a formula racing car for the annual Formula SAE Michigan competition Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity, Illinois Alpha Chapter Member 4/16 – Present • Promote and facilitate multiple philanthropy activities, fundraising events and new member recruitment • Apply parliamentary procedure to engage in discussions about chapter governance SKILLS Language: Spanish (fluent), Italian (conversational) Computer: Proficient in MATLAB, SolidWorks, EAGLE, AMPL, R, STATA, Excel, and PowerPoint Laboratory: Electrical resistivity measurement, data regression and analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, stress-strain testing, titrations, filtrations, dilutions, and other standard laboratory chemical procedures 15
CAREER GUIDE SIENNA PATEL sipatel@u.northwestern.edu • (555) 123-4567 • 111 Orrington Ave., Evanston, IL 60201 EDUCATION Northwestern University, Evanston, IL Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Expected June 2019 Major: Theatre Yale Summer Conservatory for Actors, New Haven, CT, June - August 2017 WORK EXPERIENCE Carousel Productions, Los Angeles, CA Intern, June 2018 - August 2018 • Wrote summaries of 55+ screenplay submissions for production evaluation • Analyzed content to determine which submissions should be approved for development • Composed project reviews, planned team meetings, and addressed phone inquiries Binder Casting, New York, NY Intern, July 2017 - September 2017 • Performed outreach to over 200 public schools and relevant organizations in children’s talent search for the Broadway production of Disney’s The Lion King • Liaised between agents, casting directors, and producers to maintain lines of communication • Served as a knowledge resource for prospective talent regarding audition information and company practices North Carolina Dance Institute, Raleigh, NC Substitute Dance Teacher/Front Desk Staff, August 2012 - July 2015 • Choreographed and taught combinations and technique lessons for jazz, tap, ballet, modern, and hip-hop dance for ages 5–adult Format plays or films • Strengthened student technique by attending to individual needs and presenting corrections in a positive way • Communicated with customers in person and by phone, offering personalized responses to daily inquiries to call attention to • Managed quarterly registration materials and fees for 250+ dancers participating in 15 unique classes PRODUCTION experience. PRODUCTION EXPERIENCE Northwestern University, Evanston, IL Executive Producer The Freshman Musicale Amy Matthews, Director 2018 Assistant Producer The History Boys Caroline Siede, Director 2017 Lighting Operator I Love You Because Jesse Rothschild, Director 2017 Raleigh Ensemble Players Theatre Company, Raleigh, NC Stage Manager The Last Days of Judas Iscariot C. Glen Matthews, Director 2016 Fundraising Team Eukiah C. Glen Matthews, Director 2015 SELECT PERFORMANCE EXPERIENCE Kim S. Gordon Dog Sees God CB’s Sis C. Glen Matthews, Director 2016 Into the Woods Jack’s Mother C. Glen Matthews, Director 2016 618 Clark St., Evanston, IL 60201 ∙ k-gordon@u.northwestern.edu ∙ 212-555-1212 ∙ www.linkedin.com/kimgordon ∙ www.kimgordon.com God’s Country The Student C. Glen Matthews, Director 2015 Bat Boy Institute Man Tito Hernandez, Director 2014 EDUCATION HONORS Northwestern University, Evanston, IL Cary Academy Excellence in Drama Award, 2014, 2016 Bachelor of Science in Journalism, June 2019 Johnnetta Camile Overton Scholarship, 2014, given to the rising senior with “a dynamic personality, a strong Double major in Gender and Sexuality Studies work ethic, and an ability to lead, offering a strong voice in the community” RELEVANT EXPERIENCE SKILLS Technical: Basic sound and light board, spotlight operating Eric Lund Global Reporting and Research Grant, Tamale, Ghana Computer: Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel Grant Recipient, July 2018-Present • Chosen as one of 15 recipients to author a 12-page project proposal • Oversee content acquisition, including scheduling interviews, filming 40+ hours of footage, and organizing translation • Edit material to create a documentary about women living as accused witches in isolated regions of northern Ghana Medill News Service, Northwestern University, Washington, D.C. Mobile Journalist-Environmental Beat, January 2017-March 2017 • Selected as one of 16 students to report for Medill on the Hill and contribute to a professional daily newsroom • Researched and wrote enterprise stories on political and environmental issues, including Global Warming in America • Reported, wrote, and photographed from the field, using social media to send quick updates and filing at least one story a day • Produced multimedia content for web, including photo/audio slideshows, video packages, and graphics Northwestern University Press, Evanston, IL Editorial Assistant, September 2016-June 2018; Intern, June 2016-August 2016 • Promoted from intern to editorial assistant in September 2016 for excellent and thorough work • Edited 20+ manuscripts, including short story anthologies, drama, novels, and educational and scholarly works • Prepared files for copyediting by entering typesetting codes, fact-checking references, and ensuring consistency of style • Input author and copyeditor changes to files, reviewed page proofs, and queried authors about discrepancies in manuscripts • Revised introductions, chronologies, photo galleries, notes, bibliographies, and indices PUBLICATIONS Mildred’s Tale, Kim S. Gordon, Concord, MA, 2017 • Authored 55-page historical novella chronicling the major events during the women’s suffrage movement Noting specific PUBLICATIONS Revolutionary War Heroes, How the War was Won, Dr. Susan Thoney, Concord Press, Washington, MA Contributor, published 2016 highlights relevant qualifications. • Wrote chapter titled “The Revolution, Its Beginnings” about women’s roles during the American Revolution HONORS Mortar Board National College Senior Honor Society, November 2018 Golden Key International Honor Society, September 2016-Present SKILLS Publishing: Experienced with the Chicago Manual of Style editing symbols, language, and guidelines Computer: Proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator Working knowledge in Premiere Pro CS5, Soundbooth, Dreamweaver CS3, InDesign, Flash CS5, NewsBoss Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Vimeo, Tumblr, Skype, Reddit, StumbleUpon, LinkedIn, Instagram Language: Fluent in Spanish (11 years of coursework) 16
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