5 tips on creating a résumé that hirers can’t resist

5 tips on how to create a résumé that hirers can't resist

 

Curating a college résumé is one of the most important things you can do when applying to college. Here at Marymount University, we understand that writing a professional college résumé is more than simply trying to impress college recruiters. Your résumé is meant to be a tangible representation — summing up who you are as an individual, reflecting your experiences and skills. Below are basic factors to consider that will help prepare you to write a résumé that will make a lasting impression on any college admissions team.

1. Narrow down the most important factors in your résumé

There are many different areas of your life that you can focus on when creating a college résumé. However, it’s vital to have a good balance of information that’s not overwhelming to look at but still displays your personality and background. Remember to consider the below topics as you begin writing and organizing your college résumé:

  • High school information, including graduation date, GPA, SAT/ACT scores and class rank
  • Achievements (honors, academic awards, etc.)
  • Community service
  • Hobbies
  • Coursework (any specific areas that may not appear on your transcript)
  • Special skills (fluent in a foreign language, proficient in Excel, etc.)

2. Highlight experiences that showcase your leadership, passion and dedication

Although grades and test scores are an important part of getting into college, there are other crucial factors that can help you stand out. Sharing experiences that show how you’ve taken initiative (personally and academically) can both impress colleges and allow you to illustrate why you would be a great asset to the school you’re applying to. College admissions professionals want to focus on prospective students who they feel will add something to their school’s community.

3. Go the extra mile and focus on details in your résumé

It’s important to proofread your résumé for any errors or important aspects you may have simply missed when you first began creating it. A clean résumé with no grammatical errors will help you come across as a more professional applicant. Using action verbs can also help you express your enthusiasm more effectively. Using words like developed, executed and managed can portray your experience in a way that shows you are a high-achieving and driven individual.

4. Be truthful and authentic

Often times, students focus so hard on trying to make their résumé sound perfect that they include details and numbers that are actually an elaboration of the truth. Regardless of what you may think colleges want to hear, it’s not worth lying about any detail in your résumé just for a chance to get into a college.

5. Use Marymount University’s career services

At Marymount, we are proud to offer a variety of resources as you navigate the admissions process, as well as throughout your college journey as you enhance skills that you will need to succeed after graduation. Take advantage of resources like Marymount’s Center for Career Development, which can help you craft a well-organized and eye-catching résumé that will assist in your college applications and when you apply to jobs post-commencement.

We offer advice for writing a competitive résumé and cover letter, college interviewing basics and much more. Check us out and let Marymount help you make informed decisions as you consider your next academic venture.