Resumes, CVs and Cover Letters

Resume vs Curriculum Vitae (CV)

What is the difference?

A resume is a one- or two-page overview emphasizing skills, education, work experience, volunteer activities and other relevant information used to support a specific career objective in the private or public sector. A resume is more concise than a CV, and is used when applying for most positions that do not emphasize academic research and/or teaching.

A Curriculum Vitae is a longer summary of an individual's educational background and experiences that emphasizes research and teaching in academic settings, and is used when applying for teaching and administrative positions in academia, a fellowship or grant and sometimes government and management positions.

Gather tips for executing an effective resume or CV by visiting the links below.

Resumes Curriculum Vitae

Cover Letters

Cover Letter Structure

For all cover letters, we suggest the following structure:

Your home address
City, state, zip code
Phone number

Current date

Employer's name
Title
Organization
Address
City, state, zip code

Dear Mr., Ms., Dr., Professor_______:

First paragraph
Second paragraph
Third paragraph
Final paragraph

Sincerely,
Full name

Enclosure*
_{*alert your reader to the fact that another document, your resume or CV, accompanies your letter.}

Content Tips

A good cover letter will:

Be addressed to the hiring manager, including a specific individual's name, title, and organization.
Use business letter format and be individually typed on letter-quality printer paper or high quality bond paper that matches your resume paper. Use white or cream colors.
Keep content to one page — three, no more than four paragraphs is ideal.
Demonstrate your knowledge of their organization.
Be clear on your objective and identify two or three skills that most represent you.
Highlight these skills and detail how you might be an asset to their organization.
Show high quality writing and proofing skills. Have someone proofread your letters to avoid errors. Avoid overuse of the pronoun I and pay special attention to paragraph transition.

How-To Guides

Video: Kickresume's "Cover Letter That Gets You The Job Interview in 2022" on YouTube

glassdoor – How to Write a Cover Letter

The Muse – Complete Guide to Writing a Cover Letter

Resume vs Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Cover Letters

Sample Cover Letters

Contact Career Services