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Resumes and Cover Letters

Resumes

A resume is an opportunity for you to make a strong first impression with an employer. Crafted effectively, your resume will set you apart from other candidates and is used by employers to select candidates for an interview. In addition to summarizing your experience and education, a strong resume will communicate the results of your work.

Resume Guide Basic Chronological Resume

Resume Guide Engineering                            

Resume Guide Fillable Engineering Word Resume

Resume Guide SSHA 

Resume Guide Natural Sciences 

Resume Guide Laboratory Natural Sciences

Resume Guide MBE1                                 

Resume Guide MBE2

Resume Action Verbs

Resume Rubric

Cover Letters

Your cover letter makes the link between the qualifications in your resume and the requirements of the position. Make it succinct, relevant, and well-worded. Use this document to answer questions. Can you do the job? Why are you interested? Use this space to professionally explain any gaps in employment or unusual major or career changes. 

A Guide To Writing Winning Cover Letters

References

Professional references are those who know you and your work well. Prepare references in advance by letting them know what you are applying for and when you have given their name. Always reconfirm that someone is willing to be a reference.  Some Tips:

• Use a separate page to list 3-5 employers and faculty members. Include name, title, business, telephone and e-mail.

• Do not list references or state “References available upon request” on your resume.

• For a professional look, use the same header style on your Reference page as you do on your Resume.

Other Career Guides

Guides on other Career Topics may be found in the Resource Library of UC Merced's Handshake Career Management System