If you are seeking a position in an academic, scientific, or medical field, use a Curriculum Vitae in place of a resume. Pattern your CV after reverse chronological resumes, with the addition of more detailed information. A CV does not have a page limit, so continuously add accomplishments you gain experience.

Reminders:

• Create a master resume or CV that you update on an annual basis, at the very least.  Include all your accomplishments, dates of significant projects and transitions, supervisor names and your salary for previous positions. This document is a good way for you to track your career milestones. There are some organizations that will require this level of specificity, as well.
• Customize your document to each position for which you are applying. Base your customized version on keywords from the position description. Use the same terminology to help your document pass the screening software that checks for specific terminology or keywords.
• List the most important and relevant information, based on the position description, first on your resume or CV.

To Get Started:

1. Make a list of experiences: education and training, previous or current jobs, internships, research, projects, volunteer, leadership, student organization, etc.
2. Think about your significant achievements, what skills you used and developed, and what you contributed to organizations.
3. Combine a list of your experiences and accomplishments: education and training, jobs, internships, research, projects, volunteer and leadership activities, student and professional organizations, presentations and publications, awards and honors.
4. Begin to craft your CV by organizing these experiences into sections (see below).

Common Sections of a CV:

The following are possible categories and headings for a Curriculum Vitae. Not all must be used; some overlap. The categories depend on the focus of the CV.

• Academic Experience
• Biographical Statement
• Committees (or Academic Service)
• Dissertation
• Computer Skills
• Courses Taught
• Professional Activities
• Education and Training
• Employment History
• Honors Awards and Fellowships
• Presentations
• Publications
• Grants
• Language Skills
• References

Additional Resources:

• CV Example (PDF)