Hello Cornerstone Students!
Part 1: Resumes and Cover Letters
Resumes and cover letters are really important items that give an employer a first glance at who you are before they see you and potentially invite you to an interview. In Education we use what is called a KWL chart. The K represents what the learner already know about the topic, the W is what the learner want to know about said topic, and the L is what the learner learned about the topic after doing research, readings, or assignments on the topic.
Step 1: Type “K:” and list next to it everything you know about resumes and cover letters. What are some dos and don’ts you have heard?
Step 2: Type “W:” and list anything you want to know and don’t know about Resumes and Cover Letters.
Step 3: Go to the Career Services website and search the web for dos, don’ts, tips, and examples of Resumes and cover letters.
Step 4: Type “L:” and list everything you have learned as well as answers to the questions you listed is Step 2.
Part 2: The Modern Job Search
Many people wait until they graduate to think about what they want to do after college. Why wait and put yourself through that stress. School achievement is very important but employers also want to see experience. Experience outside the classroom can also lead to networking opportunities that may lead you to a job opportunity. What about graduate school? Are you interested in that? Did you know that graduate schools conduct interviews for acceptance?
Step 1: Go to the Career Services website and look at the content for “Start Your Job Search” and “Plan for Graduate School”. Include in your blog response what you have learned.
Step 2: Provide a link to your dream job or graduate program. What steps and plans are you taking to reach that dream?
As a last note, if you have a few years left and free electives you can take I would strongly suggest looking into the class Career Planning. You work on future planning, resumes, cover letters, interviews and much more. If you can’t do that you can always stop by Career Services and they will do the same things with you one on one. Also check out their workshops!
Part 1: Resumes and Cover Letters
ReplyDeleteK-What I know
-include a professional email address
-list all relevant information (like any relevant volunteer work or technical skills)
-list items in a reverse chronological order
-tailor the resume to fit the job/company you are applying to
-don’t lie on your resume— if you didn’t do it don’t put it on!
-it should be clear and concise
-all info should be on one page and use standard front
-top of the page: your name, address, email, and phone/cell number
-should include objective—your reason for giving the resume
-use bullet points and be consistent with your format
-each new section should have a title
W-What I want to know
-what is the best format for a resume?
-it it ok for a resume to have color?
L-What I learned
-there isn’t a “best” format. All your information should be on page and be organized and should include space between lines. So whatever way you need to accomplish those things then that is the format that you should use. The information you add to the resume should follow this order:
Objective, Education, Professional Experience, other components if applicable (Skills, Professional Membership, Leader Activities, and Honors).
-using color in your resume is fine as long as it enhances visual appeal and it communicates professionalism. Color must enhance not detract, from content and formatting.
-references should be included with the resume, but on a separate page
-in the education section don’t include high school information
Part 2: The Modern Job Search
DeleteI am not a hundred percent sure what I will do in the future, but I have several options that I am interested in pursuing. I would like to work as an English teacher overseas. Currently I am thinking of working either at the Jet Program to teach in Japan (http://www.jetprogramme.org/) or the Talk Program (http://talk.go.kr/) to teach in Korea. Or anywhere really… As long as it is somewhere overseas! I also desire to continue with school and get my Masters I would like to receive either an Interpersonal Communications MA or an IDS MA/MS or a TESOL MA. Here are the links.
Interpersonal Communication MA
http://www.graduatecatalog.ucf.edu/programs/program.aspx?id=1468&tid=260&track=Interpersonal Communication
Teaching English Students of Other Languages MA
http://www.graduatecatalog.ucf.edu/programs/program.aspx?id=1450&program=Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages MA
IDS MS
http://www.graduatecatalog.ucf.edu/programs/program.aspx?id=1288&program=Interdisciplinary Studies MS
IDS MA
http://www.graduatecatalog.ucf.edu/programs/program.aspx?id=1286&program=Interdisciplinary Studies MA
As you can see I have multiply paths to pursue and hopefully by the time I graduate with from UCF I will have chose a course that will be beneficial to me in my educational (I love just learning!) and professional goals.
If I decide to start working after receiving my IDS BA, I will apply to the Jet and Talk program and other English teaching programs (I will probably learn about other programs) during my last semester at UCF. Before my last semester I will continue working for the English Homestay program I’ve been involved with (almost three years) in order to continue gaining direct experience. I also hope to earn a certificate “Teaching English to Students of Other Languages” from UCF to get formal training for my career. Then after working overseas for a couple years I hope to come back and work towards a Masters.
From looking on the Career Services at the “Start Your Job Search” and “Plan for Graduate School” links I saw a lot of resources that would definitely make the daunting task of planning for graduate studies or finding a job so much easier. What I learned from visiting the links was applying for Graduate school takes a great deal of planning in advance. The site gives a timeline that recommends you start the process 3 semesters before your application submission!
I will use these resources so that I will have everything completed in time for whatever path I chose to pursue after finishing up my IDS degree!
One of my friends is getting her TESOL certificate right now. She plans on working with international students in a higher education setting.
DeleteWhen you start applying to graduate schools, you need to go and check each school's admissions process. I'm applying to the University of Oklahoma right now, and I wasn't allowed to even start my application until my final semester of undergrad. On the other hand, I started an application for FAU during the summer of 2011, and in October they changed their admissions requirements. It all depends on the program you want to get into.
I think it is very cool that the questions you did have you did get answered. One thing I would also suggest is making sure that you use resume paper and not regular paper as it is more professional than regular computer paper.
DeleteIt sounds like you have a few promising options going for you. It is also great that you are getting outside experience now. I like how you have a passion for going overseas to teach. What sparked your desire to teach overseas?
Rachel, I currently have friends stationed in Japan and they say it is an awesome place. It is very fast paced and hectic as they put it. There are a lot of great opportunities to be had being accepted to teach in a foreign location. If you pick up additional languages other programs would become interested in hiring you for their English studies, due to the fact you have already succeeded at another one.
DeleteKristen,
DeleteYes that is true that the admission requirements all depends on the program. For the Communication MA/MS program here at UCF they have a timeline to start the process 3 semester before submitting your application.
Good luck getting in your Graduate program!
Mike,
I just really love traveling and experiencing new cultures and I also like teaching and have a passion for helping others learn. So I thought teaching overseas would give me all that! What made me interested in pursing an overseas job was my time with the English program I volunteer at. I went to Japan for a month with the program and I really loved it and I thought I wouldn't mind getting paid for work I enjoy!
CWaite,
Thank you for the tip to make myself more marketable. I am hoping to study Chinese here at UCF. If I do that than I will see what I can find in China.
Part 1 - Resumes and Cover Letters KWL
ReplyDeleteK:
- Do include professional contact information (email, telephone, street address)
- Do be very straight to the point (be "efficient" in your writing)
- Do not use a flashy template
- Do make sure the resume is only one page
- Do use mostly relevant experiences
W:
I have just a rough resume now, and there is a lot of things I would like to know about having the perfect resume.
- What is a good format for health sciences career?
- Is it necessary to always have an Objective Statement?
- What is a cover letter? (I have never written one)
- What parts (if at all) of undergraduate greek life should be included on a resume?
L:
- A relevant professional nursing resume will include a summary of qualification, relevant career experience, education details, memberships, and certifications/licensure.
- Though, it is not necessary, having an objective statement will show maturity and how I am pre-planning professional goals and how I will achieve them.
- The cover letter is the first impression. You use this letter to introduce yourself and your resume to the possible employer. This allows the applicant to go more in-depth and be more story-like than a resume. It is very important to have a cover letter that individualizes yourself to the job you are applying to.
- Today, putting greek life involvement on a resume can be devastating. It really depends on the employer and the knowledge of the fraternity and sorority system. After doing some research, I believe that using greek experiences on a resume does not have to hurt you as long as you highlight the proper aspects (including service, philanthropy, leadership, organization, and team work) and not even mentioning aspects like social events.
Part 2 - The Modern Job Search
I have spent my entire undergraduate trying to figure out what I want to do with my career. It was not until last year, when I was a Junior, that I fell upon professional level nursing. I can not imagine doing anything else! To begin a career in nursing, one must first be registered (RN) by passing the NCLEX exam (whether you have completed your BSN or just an RN program). As a junior, I felt it would be more beneficial for me to just go ahead and complete my IDS BS degree and then upon graduation go onto an accelerated BSN program either here at UCF, up at UNF, or in Philly. Upon becoming a nurse, my goal is to become a nurse anesthetist (CRNA). A nurse anesthetist requires an MSN degree in nurse anesthesia. These programs are very competitive and require a lot of academic and professional endurance. The graduate program I have my eye is the UPenn program. http://www.nursing.upenn.edu/crna/Pages/CRNA-Welcome.aspx
It would be my dream school, very competitive, but with a lil extra hard work anything extraordinary is possible. To be a good candidate for this program, I plan on doing my best work in a BSN program, work hard in the industry for 2-3 years, getting great recommendations along the way, then apply and get ready to work even harder.
Something you brought up that is always important for graduate school is getting great recommendations. Anyone you meet can become a mentor. By working really hard you are able to place yourself in a good position to get good recommendations at work and in school.
DeleteBeing greek can show hard work and dedication. A potential employer themselves may be greek and possibly choose you to interview to ask questions about your involvement and committment to the organization. It is important that you can draw from your experiences as a member because whatever you include on your resume is free game for questioning.
DeleteBeing greek will be a boon to you here Andy. You are currently in a Fraternity based off of a military corp. You should incorporate that in regards to your job interviews to show how discipline was involved in your college career.
DeleteAgreeing with what Kristen said. Also, not only can anyone you meet be a mentor but it's always best to network because alot of the time it's not what you know but who you know. I know alot of people who has gotten jobs by who they know...not an interview.
DeleteK
ReplyDeleteDo include pertinent information
Do include basic knowledge which can be taken for granted (microsoft word
Do not list age,race,gender etc
Do not list high school
Do list specific things from high school (leadership spots)
W
I would like to know which is generally most accepted
What type of paper should be used?
Are there any tips?
Are the pre made ones on microsoft acceptable?
L
resume is a snap shot of you
three types of resumes - Chronological, Functional, Combination
Send with a cover letter
Do not be modest
1 I learned you should start your job search as quickly as possible. If looking for graduate school be prepared for an interview. Getting into either one of these can be very difficult. You need to figure out which is a better option. Would job knowledge help you get your masters quicker or what getting your masters first make you a better candidate to get your dream job? Should you do both at the same time? Essentially it comes down to personal preference.
My dream job is to be a remotely pioleted aircraft pilot for the Air Force. I have been working towards this for the past four years. I kept my grades solid and maintained myself well within my ROTC career. I left my Field Training experience in the top third of my class and am in the top 5% of my class here at UCF. As such I was selected to do this job once I commission into the Air Force. It was a lot of hard work and long hours but it finally paid off.
Finally, it is my last two semesters at UCF and as such I have missed the boat for electives, but I did look into some things to take during the summer. Mostly I found classes related to Digital Media which are more artistic based as opposed to technical.
Whoops forgot my name, always forget something... Cory Waite
DeleteI am glad your hard work as paid off! I think it is wonderful that you had a dream and went after it. I wish you all the best and thank you for what you will do in the Air Force.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteCory, your knowledge of resumes sounds pretty solid; however I didn't know basic knowledge, like microsoft, could be taken for granted. I'll have to look into that one. Now that I am graduating, I am also learning that it is a good idea to start looking for jobs/careers very early. Even though I am still in school it is good to know what's available at the moment, and what I will qualify for once I graduate.
DeleteBeing the top third of your ROTC is amazing! I have a friend now apart of the military training program for UCF and she says it's pretty tough. Good luck to you!
k
ReplyDelete-not to list your high school education
-include basic information
-instead of listing high school use high school experiences for your skills
- make your resume one page long
W
-What is the proper format to use when trying to find a health care job
- I hear that there is a certain kind of paper to use for a resume. I would like to know what type of paper should be used?
- what should be be a good career objective for the health care resume
-how to do a cover letter
L
- Your resume is a reflection of you
-be direct
-don't spell out your degree future employer's know what it is
Part 2
I had no idea that most Graduate programs do interviews for certain programs very interesting. My Goals for the future is to first complete UCF and then apply for Grad school either at ucf or at the University of phoenix. my degree will be a Master's of science in healthcare administration/education I plan on being in administration in a hospital or a nursing facility.
my grad school options
www.fhchs.edu
www.phoenix.edu
www.ucf.edu
vinicia crenshaw
I didn't know that Graduate programs did interviews either. This does make someone really focus and figure out what they want to do. Which is a good thing higher the standards, higher the effort I think.
DeleteI work at a doctor's office and I think working at an healthcare facility is a good field to go in. It does involve a lot of hard work, but it is an rewarding job. Good luck!
Yes the healthcare feild is a Good and I do agree it is a lot of work with me working in the hospital I see all the work that is put in it. At times it could be fustrating but it is rewarding at the end of the day. to know you had a impact in someones life.
DeleteVinicia,
DeleteI don't think you should have to limit your resume to one page, if it all relates to the job you're applying for. I'm sure its preferred to have one page (because then it wont be filled with fluff) but if all the information you're giving a potential employer relates to the job, then list it all!
Hey Vinicia,
DeleteIn response to the "proper" resume for heath care professions, I had the same question. After some research I found that because health care is so vast you really need to know your audience and for what type of position you are applying to. Example, for a clincian, an employer will be looking for relevant experience and clinical skills, where as health care administration...you might want to include more knowledge of business management and insurance practices.
It's awesome that you are looking to further your education in healthcare administration. This industry is still developing and the prospects are great. My only advice to you is to be very careful with University of Phoenix. Phoenix's online programs are nice but much more expensive then a traditional university setting. The great thing about healthcare administration is more graduate programs at most schools is online. Systems, such as Phoenix, are set up to have higher level managers feeding them money for many years. Not saying it is a bad choice, just be sure to look at all your options.
K
ReplyDelete-Not to list your high school education
-Use experiences
-Make resume short not to long
- dont list you age, gender
w
- What to know is there is a proper way to set up a resume
L
- Not to put your High school education on your resume
- your resume is a reflection of you
Part2. Im not sure of what I want to do. Im going to graduate from UCF and Im thinking about going back to school to get my masters in Leadership. Becuase I always wanted to work in the school system, so I figure if I go back to get my masters, that will be better and I probably can be a Principal one day.
I believe you are heading in the right direction to achieve the goal of being a Principal it's alot of work but it is rewarding
Deletevinicia
That's good. The more education under your belt the better. Why just stop at being a teacher when you could be a principal. Do you have any grad schools in mind?
DeleteK-what I know
ReplyDelete-top of page: name and contact information
-be clear and concise
-resume should be no longer than one page
-have a cover letter
-use most relevant experiences
-be consistent with format
-do not include gpa
W-what I want to know
-does a resume have to be in a specific format?
-what kind of paper should I use for a resume?
L-learned
-don't include high school in education section
-there is no specific format, long as all the information is organized
-3 types of resumes
-do not spell out your degree
Part 2
My plan is to complete UCF and go on to graduate school. As of a few weeks ago I did not know that graduate schools did interviews. I want to be a pharmacists and my dream school is FAMU.I plan on doing an internship at Publix's Pharmacy. I would also like to get a degree as a pharmacy tech so while I'm in school I could not only be working for money but also gaining experience for my career by watching a pharmacist everyday.
www.famu.edu
www.uf.edu
Hi Jakara,
DeleteAs far as the paper is concerned, I think any type of resume or heavier-weight paper would be fine. Most resume papers come watermarked and have a bit of texture to them. It looks much more professional on nicer paper than on just regular printer paper. First impressions matter! Also, your cover letter should definitely be printed on the same paper as your resume, just so that everything is consistent.
Part 1:
ReplyDeleteK - What I know
- resumes should not include gender, birthdate, GPA, or anything that will differentiate someone from the rest of the group.
- do not list any information about high school.
- colors can be used, but should be limited and not overwhelming.
- should tailor resume to position you're applying for.
W - Want to Know
- Specific formats for different positions.
- should community college information be put on resume?
L - What I Learned.
- nothing from high school or community college should be on resume (they already know you've made it out of both, focus on whats most important)
- only put relevant information that applies to the job you're interested in.
- amount of time is better than listing years (2009-2011 v. 2 years)
- dont write out the full name of degree in progress / earned - just put the initials.
- FILL your resume, dont PAD it.
Part 2:
As of right now, I dont have any definite plans for graduate school. I'm trying to get through my undergraduate studies first! I think eventually, (if I really hate being out of school) I'll probably end up going to graduate school but as far as where or for what, thats still completely up in the air. I wasn't aware that graduate schools require an interview, but its definitely something to over prepare for.
I like your statement "FILL your resume, don't PAD it." Very important! It is kinda like reading an AP history essay...you know when the essay is filled with great information and logic and when the essay is simply a bunch of fluff.
DeleteYour post bachelor plan is what most graduates face. Why would you want to immediately go into an expensive grad program when there is the possibility of not really enjoying the field once practicing? If this were your situation, that pricey grad school (that you are now paying off the loans for) is just padding to your resume. In actuality, most graduate programs will require some kind of work experience in the relevant field of the program. So working for a bit and finding your niche, gaining some real-world experience is preferred. In fact, throughout the daunting interview process for many grad programs, you will be better prepared because you will have a journey to discuss and specific experiences to draw upon.