Crafting a compelling resume and cover letter is crucial in today’s competitive job market. East Carolina University’s (ECU) Career Services offers expert assistance to students and alumni seeking to perfect these essential career tools. Whether you’re an undergraduate student just starting to explore career paths or a seasoned graduate aiming for a career change, ECU Career Services provides tailored support to help you stand out. Leverage the resources available to create documents that effectively showcase your skills and experience.
ECU Career Services understands that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for resumes. They offer guidance on various resume formats to best highlight your unique strengths:
Chronological Resumes: Ideal for those with a consistent career history, chronological resumes list your work experience in reverse date order, starting with your most recent position. This format is straightforward and emphasizes career progression, making it suitable if you are staying within a similar career field.
Functional Resumes: If you are changing careers or have gaps in your employment history, a functional resume can be advantageous. This style focuses on your skills and abilities, grouping them into functional areas relevant to your target job. While still including a brief chronological employment history, the emphasis is shifted to what you can do, rather than just where you’ve been.
Combination Resumes: Merging the strengths of both chronological and functional formats, the combination resume highlights relevant skills and accomplishments upfront, followed by a chronological work history. This allows you to immediately showcase your qualifications related to the specific job you’re applying for, while still providing a clear timeline of your professional experience.
Beyond resumes, mastering the art of the cover letter is equally important. A cover letter is not just a formality; it’s your opportunity to personalize your application, connect your skills to the specific requirements of the job, and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and the employer. ECU Career Services can help you craft compelling cover letters that complement your resume and make a strong case for why you are the ideal candidate.
For convenient access to resume and cover letter review services, ECU Career Services utilizes Handshake, a comprehensive career development platform.
To schedule a resume or cover letter review appointment:
- Log in to Handshake.
- Navigate to the “Career Center” tab on your homepage.
- Select “Appointments” to book your personalized consultation.
Drop-in hours are also available for quick questions and resume reviews during Fall and Spring semesters, Monday through Friday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM at the main office located at 701 East 5th Street.
ECU Career Services also offers Virtual Resume Reviews, providing flexibility and accessibility for all students, regardless of location. Check Handshake for upcoming virtual review sessions.
Take advantage of the expertise at ECU Career Services to refine your resume and cover letter. By utilizing these resources, you’ll be well-prepared to confidently pursue your career goals. Schedule your appointment today and take a significant step towards career success.
Sample Resumes
Sample Cover Letters
Resume and CV Differences
