After many years studying and working successfully in
academia, it's time to enter the professional workplace. You have
your interview suit, your interview shoes, even your interview
briefcase. But why aren't you getting any interviews?
It could be your resume. Yes. The same one that got you
accepted to graduate school in the first place, the one that
could get you an academic job in the blink of an eye, if you
really wanted one, the one that lists all the articles you've
published in ten pages. Oh... that one.
You Are More Than Your
Thesis
Many graduates of M.A. and Ph.D. programs don't realize that the
world beyond academia is not impressed by the same things as
universities. They appreciate your intellect, but most usually
can't be bothered to read through a resume more than one page
long. Unless you were CEO of Microsoft. But then, you wouldn't
have to be sending out resumes.
Another problem with many resumes of graduate students is that
they pay too much attention to academic successes, and not enough
to practical accomplishments and skills. Don't enumerate every
article published, every scholarship received, or every
conference attended. You only need several lines to summarize
your academic career.
With what should you replace all that information? You'll be
surprised at how much practical experience you've picked up while
in graduate school.
What are Your Skills?
Highlight events where you've displayed specific skills. For
example, planning a conference displays initiative, organization,
and teamwork. The more people attending, the better it sounds on
your resume. Giving a speech at the same conference shows public
speaking skills, poise, and confidence. Describe any teaching
assistant jobs you were awarded — these will reveal preparation
and leadership skills. And don't forget the computer and library
research skills you gained while writing your thesis — you could
make a great consultant!
As a graduate student, you may not have typical workforce
expertise, but that doesn't mean your skills aren't as valuable.
In fact, because your skills and knowledge are more unusual than
the rest of the workforce's, they should be considered even
bigger assets to your resume. Make sure you present your
abilities in this light. Remember, attitude goes a long way in
the hiring process.
