Resumes and Cover Letters

The purpose of a resume and cover letter is not to get you a job. The purpose is to get you an interview – and one step closer to getting a job! That being said, a resume and cover letter are important in making a good impression, especially if it is your first introduction to the employer.

Below are resources to help you craft a great resume and cover letter. There are also many books on this topic available for check out at the Career Center.

You may also stop by the Career Center for in-person help with your resume. Please make sure you can access your resume on a library computer. Either bring it on a flash (USB) drive or save a copy to your email or an online file-sharing service. An appointment is not necessary.

TEMPLATES AND SAMPLES

Click on the red text to download the document.

BASIC RESUME
A chronological listing of your job history. The most straightforward resume template.
This format is best for: people who have a stable work history that includes experience relevant to the jobs they are applying for, and who don’t need to include any specialized skills.

FUNCTIONAL RESUME – SINGLE TRACK
FUNCTIONAL RESUME – NON-TRADITIONAL PATH
These resume templates include large sections on your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments, with a small section on your chronological work history.
These formats are best for: people who want to minimize attention to potentially problematic details, such as an unstable work history, a dramatic change in career path, or experience which is more than twenty years old.

BASIC PROFESSIONAL RESUME
ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL RESUME
These templates are a hybrid of the basic chronological and the functional formats. They allow you to showcase both your work history and your most relevant skills and accomplishments.
These formats are best for: professionals who want to showcase their specialized skills and expertise; people with a stable work history but in different career fields; and people who are looking to branch out into a new but related career field.

NEW GRADUATE RESUME – HYBRID
NEW GRADUATE RESUME – FUNCTIONAL
NEW GRADUATE RESUME – CHRONOLOGICAL/HIGH SCHOOL
RESUME FOR UNIVERSITY, SCHOLARSHIP, OR INTERNSHIP APPLICATIONS
These formats are best for: new high school or college graduates who have little or no relevant work experience. The goal is to use the experiences you do have – school and extracurricular activities, after school jobs, etc. – and show how the skills you have gained through these activities are relevant in the real world.

ACADEMIC CV
Sample CVs for faculty and postdoctoral positions from the University of California, San Francisco. Also includes samples of cover letters and statements of teaching philosophy.

SAMPLE RESUME PHRASES
Sample job descriptions for common jobs, including cashier, restaurant, construction, and secretary positions.

ACTION VERBS FOR RESUMES
A list of suggested verbs to use in writing your job description.

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
A worksheet to help you identify existing skills that can be applied in a new position.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER – BASIC
SAMPLE COVER LETTER – ADVANCED
SAMPLE COVER LETTER – CAREER CHANGE
Any cover letter should include: (1) the name of the position you are applying for; (2) a detailed explanation of how your skills and experience make you a good fit for the position; (3) a statement of why you are interested in this position and/or the company; and (4) a closing statement thanking them for their time. A cover letter may also serve to explain certain aspects of your resume, such as gaps between jobs or a change in career.

TOP 10 REASONS YOU DIDN’T GET THE JOB
Pitfalls to be aware of as you navigate the application and interview process.

Online Resources

  • Resumes and Cover Letters Playlist on our YouTube Channel:
YouTube player