2.  Length: One page is most common. As you move throughout your career, additional pages can be used.  Font: Use plain font (Arial or Times New Roman), Size 10-12. ◦ Headings emphasized by larger font ◦ Bullets, Bolding, Underlining can be used to make the document easier to read.  Margins: 1 inch margins recommended.

3.  Name and Contact Information ◦ Address, Phone, E-mail ◦ It is common to bold and have a slightly larger font.

4.  The type of position you are seeking and field/industry of interest. ◦ Can also include the skills you want to utilize and/or the tasks you want to become involved.  Avoid clichés like “A challenging position offering opportunity for growth and advancement.”

5.  List degrees in reverse chronological order with the most recent first. ◦ Include expected graduation dates.  Include any other colleges/universities attending including study abroad experiences. ◦ Use official school name “The Pennsylvania State University”  Include G.P.A. (if above 3.0)  May also want to include related courses or special projects.

6.  Computer Skills, Foreign languages, other skills needed for the job  May include level of proficiency  Relevant Certifications  Examples: ◦ C++ Programming, Excel, PowerPoint, Minitab, SAS Programming, etc. ◦ List on Eberly College of Science website:  http://science.psu.edu/cie/career- resources/resumes/computer-mathematical-skills- for-resumes http://science.psu.edu/cie/career- resources/resumes/computer-mathematical-skills- for-resumes

7.  Include employer names, titles, dates, job responsibilities.  Most recent should be first  Use past tense action verbs in descriptions of your accomplishments and responsibilities. ◦ List: http://science.psu.edu/cie/career- resources/resumes/action-verbs-for-resumeshttp://science.psu.edu/cie/career- resources/resumes/action-verbs-for-resumes

8.  List relevant activities and leadership positions first.  Add brief details to demonstrate skills and experiences (if applicable)  Honors and Awards (if applicable)

9.  Usually not part of the resume  List of references on a separate page formatted to match the resume when requested from employers  References name, title, and all contact information  Seek prior approval from people you plan to list as references

10.  Most employers spend less than 15 seconds reviewing a resume before making the decision to consider someone for an interview.  More employers are beginning to use resume screening software so be sure to use keywords that are in the job descriptions.  PROOFREAD!

11.  Eberly College of Science Career and International Education Office  Career Services Drop-In Counseling ◦ Bank of America Career Service Center

12.  For additional information, you can go to the following websites:  http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/career/ http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/career/  http://science.psu.edu/cie/career- resources/resumes http://science.psu.edu/cie/career- resources/resumes