Résumé FAQ

It depends on your audience and on your own life experiences. While the "one page" rule may apply to most traditional students, students who have a significant amount of experiences (e.g., students in nursing or education, nontraditional students, graduate students, or campus leaders) may need to use two or more pages.

Students who have an overall or major grade point average of 3.0 or above should include it! Showing that you have done well academically will enhance your résumé.

If possible, résumés should always be printed on high-quality bond paper using a laser printer or high-quality typewriter. Avoid dot matrix printers. You can produce your own résumé using word processing, or you can choose to have someone assist you. Contact local copying and word processing businesses for prices.

Generally, stay away from information indicating your age, sex, marital status, religion, height, or weight. This information does not tell an employer about your skills or abilities and can be used to discriminate against you. Only include hobbies if they are related to your career.

Stay away from fancy formats or designs that will focus the employer's attention on your résumé presentation style rather than on its content. For the most part, employers are not impressed with gimmicks. Be conservative in your need to be creative.