Résumé Writing Guide
CAREER PLANNING SERIES
St. Mary’s University
Civic Engagement & Career Development Center
(210) 436 – 3102
civicandcareer@stmarytx.edu
www.stmarytx.edu/civicandcareer
Résumé Writing Guide
Table of Contents
What is a Résumé? …………………………………………………………………..P. 3
Components of a Résumé ……………………………………………………………P.3
 Objective
 Skills
 Education
 Experience
o How to write effective experience phrases
o Effective “Action” Words
o Transferable skills
 Additional Headings
 References
Types of Résumés ……………………………………………………………….....P.12
 Chronological
 Functional
Electronic Résumé Posting……………………………………………………..… P.16
 E-mail Résumé
 Web/HTML Résumé
 Scannable Résumé
o Tips and Guidelines on Content and Format
o Key Words
 E-form Résumé
 Internet Résumé Posting
What is a Curriculum Vita (CV)? …...………………………………………..… P.21
Cover Letters …………………………………………………………………...… P.22
Sample Résumés ………………………………………………………………..… P.26
What is a Résumé?
2



A sample of your written communication skills
A summary of your education, experience, skills, and qualifications
A way to generate interviews
A résumé is a form of written communication that highlights your education, experience,
and qualifications to perform a certain job for a particular employer. Since no two jobs are
exactly alike, résumés and cover letters should be tailored to that particular employer and
position. The sole purpose of a résumé is to help you obtain an interview. By highlighting your
relevant experiences and unique qualifications for a job, you increase your chances of getting
that interview. Using key terms or phrases common in your targeted field will help you get
noticed, as will highlighting information that is most relevant to your career objective.
Keep your purpose in mind. Your résumé is a sales tool that introduces you to the
employer in your absence. The pieces of paper you submit to the employer create the first
impression on the employer so this is your opportunity to shine. Make sure you use high quality
stationery (100% cotton bond with a watermark), a laser printer, and perfect grammar and
punctuation. Allow a career advisor to critique your résumé for layout tips, misspelled words,
and grammatical errors.
Components of a Résumé
Each component on your résumé should support your career objective. These
components are explained in further detail later in this guide and examples are provided. One
way to begin your résumé is to list everything you have ever done from your first day of college.
Then, eliminate the items that are not as relevant to your career objective. You will find that you
have more relevant experience than you think.
Note: The top third of your résumé has the most attraction power. Therefore, position your
strong areas at the top.
Virtually all résumés include the following sections:
 Contact information
 Career objective
 Education
 Experience
Other components may be included as needed to support your objective. Examples of other
sections include: honors, activities, relevant coursework/projects, service, or leadership roles.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
At the top of the résumé identify yourself by name, address, telephone number, and e-mail
address (be sure your E-mail address is appropriate!). If you will be moving from your
current address (i.e. after graduation) include a permanent address and telephone number as well
as dates when you can be reached at this location. You do not want to list only your campus
address just in case an employer tries to contact you over the summer via mail.
3
Sample Contact Information:
Mary Rattler
Current Address:
Charles Francis #123
Permanent Address:
1010
Charles Street
San Antonio, Texas 78228
San Antonio, Texas
78213
210/555-1234
210/555-6789
mrattler@stmarytx.edu
(After August 10,
2011)
OBJECTIVE:
A career objective should tell an employer what the purpose of you sending them your
resume is to accomplish. Employers typically consider the objective a necessary resume
component approximately 50% of the time. A rule of thumb many job seekers use is if you send
a detailed cover letter stating the position or type of position you are seeking, it may be
appropriate to not include an objective as the cover letter serves to showcase your objective. If
you do not have a clear objective in mind or cannot make it specific, do not include one.
If you choose to include an objective, the statement should include:
 Realistic, concise, and focused but non-restrictive language.
 You may wish to include things like the industry, type of work you prefer, or skills you
can offer the company. You do not need to state a job title exactly, though this can be
included as well.
 Avoid clichés like “opportunity for advancement”, “challenging position”, and
“progressive company”.
 Do not include statements of self-gratification like, “so that I might learn…”
Sample Objectives:






To obtain a mechanical engineering technology position within the automotive industry.
Entry-level Programmer or Analyst position requiring computer and business
background.
Position as Staff Nurse with a private health care facility where proven medical and
patient relation skills are required.
Third grade teacher with a public elementary school.
To obtain an internship within a public relations or event planning firm.
To attain the Presidential Award Scholarship.
4
SKILLS:
This section can be included just beneath your objective of your resume. Select and organize
key skills you have that will support your job objective. For example, a student applying for a
programming position may include skills related to computer programming; an accounting
student should showcase their understanding of Accounting principles and software. Typical
skills listing include basic skills of the computer and language. Dependent upon your objective
and experience, you may list more.
Sample Skills Section:
COMPUTER:
Software: Proficient with Microsoft Office—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access; Visual Studio,
Oracle, GNU GCC/G++ Compiler
Operating Systems: Windows 9x/NT, Linux, UNIX, DOS, BSD, Solaris
Languages: C/C++/Visual C++, Java/J++, Visual Basic, SQL, Assembly, Perl/CGI,
VBScript/JavaScript, HTML/DHTML, ASP, PHP
COMMUNICATION:
Language: Bilingual English and Spanish (written and verbal); Intermediate Portuguese and French
EDUCATION:
It is important to include the following:
 Institutions of higher education attended where degrees or certificates were received
 Degree(s) earned, including major(s) and minor(s) if applicable
 Date the degree(s) was awarded
 Grade Point Average, if above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
 Major GPA can be included if it is better than your cumulative- just be certain to label it
as MAJOR GPA so as not to deceive the employer
 Academic honors and relevant courses/projects may be listed here or under
separate headings.
Note: It is not necessary to list your high school education unless you are a freshman or
sophomore with little experience in the college setting and most of your previous activities
come from high school.
5
Sample Education Section (list in Reverse Chronological Order):
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
 Major GPA 3.75; Cumulative GPA 3.28
Expected Graduation: December 2012
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
Bachelor of Arts—English Communication Arts, May 2011
 Major GPA 3.4
San Antonio College, San Antonio, TX
Associate of Liberal Arts, May 2010
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
Master of Business Administration—Marketing, May 2011
Bachelor of Business Administration—Marketing, May 2009
EXPERIENCE:
Prospective employers read this section with the thought “How does this person’s experiences
and abilities relate to the position and my organization’s needs?” Therefore, you must use this
section to highlight these areas for the employers. Employers seek information on the context of
your work, not just the content. Utilize action verbs and quantify your value to showcase your
role in attaining results and accomplishments.
Experience includes internships, co-op positions, clinical rotations, volunteer work, class
projects, job shadowing, and student teaching. It includes both paid and unpaid experience. The
following information should be included:
1. Position Title
2. Dates of employment (month and year suffice; exact dates are not needed)
3. Name, City, and State location of the organization (exact street address and zip code is
unnecessary)
4. Responsibilities, achievements, significant contributions, and demonstrated abilities.
These items can be listed in any order, though employers typically seek reverse chronological
order. Be consistent with your format throughout your résumé.
6
Sample Experience:
Area Alamo Council of Government Internship
December 2009 – May 2010
The City of Shavano Park, San Antonio, TX
 Reviewed and revised legal contracts, resulting in savings of $100,000 for the city
 Created and monitored meetings with up to (6) individuals for contract review of new
proposals
 Created summarized reports for Mayor regarding contract renewals including recommended
action tasks
 Worked with the Water Works Department, Police Department, and Fire Department to
review and evaluate customer files, billings, and department procedures manuals
Writing Effective Experience Phrases
The most effective resumes are those that show results or accomplishments reflected in the skill
phrases you use to describe your experiences. Consider the following questions to help you
qualify and quantify (when possible) your experiences:


What was the purpose of the goal or activity?
What happened as a result of your work?
Different Versions of Experience Statements
Good



Managed office
Taught Chemistry to students
Managed farm
Better



Managed office operations and staff of twelve
Taught the gas laws to a group of high school students
Managed (50) head of dairy cattle on farm
Best

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
Managed sales office operations and staff of (12) to record setting productivity
Utilized cooperative learning in teaching the gas laws to (25) high school students
Managed (50) head of dairy cattle and utilized ration balancing which enhanced milk
production by (37%)
Experience Phrases with Results
7
Meeting or Surpassing Goals/Standards
 Exceeded sales department’s yearly goals by 150% over a nine-month period.
 Learned all aspects associated with sales office, including functions of cashier, wire
operator, order desk and research library assistant.
 Designed computer software to replicate the four-valve chambers of the human heart as
an intern.
 Co-wrote and edited a training manual for the Carbonate Rock Society. Three years later,
the manual is still in use.
Promotion or Increased Responsibility
 Created new position of Public Relations Director to fill corporate need.
 Promoted to Staff Trainer after working as a waitress for three summers.
Increasing Efficiency, Cutting Time Spent On Tasks
 Organized computer system to log approximately 200 grant proposals per month,
resulting in a 20% reduction in the time spent on this task.
 Restructured sanding department work priorities, which resulted in a 4-fold increase in
efficiency during a summer job.
Initiating Change/New Idea That Was Utilized
 Designed and implemented magnet setting in new classroom, which has now been
adopted by the entire school.
 Organized recreational, social and education programs for housing project. Increased
program from 2 to 24 classes.
Verb Tense
When describing your job activities, use action verbs to begin each phrase. Avoid complete
sentences and personal pronouns (I, me, mine, etc.). If you are currently working, use present
tense verbs. When describing previous jobs, use past tense verbs. Do not use -ing endings on
your verbs. See below for a listing of some “action” verbs.
8
Effective “Action” Words
Communication/
People Skills
Addressed
Advertised
Arbitrated
Arranged
Articulated
Authored
Clarified
Collaborated
Communicated
Composed
Condensed
Conferred
Consulted
Contacted
Conveyed
Convinced
Corresponded
Debated
Defined
Developed
Directed
Discussed
Drafted
Edited
Elicited
Enlisted
Explained
Expressed
Formulated
Furnished
Incorporated
Influenced
Interacted
Interpreted
Interviewed
Involved
Joined
Judged
Lectured
Listened
Marketed
Mediated
Moderated
Negotiated
Observed
Outlined
Participated
Persuaded
Presented
Promoted
Proposed
Publicized
Reconciled
Recruited
Referred
Reinforced
Reported
Resolved
Responded
Solicited
Specified
Spoke
Suggested
Summarized
Synthesized
Translated
Wrote
Creative
Skills
Acted
Adapted
Began
Combined
Composed
Conceptualized
Condensed
Created
Customized
Designed
Developed
Directed
Displayed
Drew
Entertained
Established
Fashioned
Formulated
Founded
Illustrated
Initiated
Instituted
Integrated
Introduced
Invented
Modeled
Modified
Originated
Performed
Photographed
Planned
Revised
Revitalized
Shaped
Solved
Data/
Financial Skills
Administered
Adjusted
Allocated
Analyzed
Appraised
Assessed
Audited
9
Balanced
Budgeted
Calculated
Computed
Conserved
Corrected
Determined
Developed
Estimated
Forecasted
Managed
Marketed
Measured
Netted
Planned
Prepared
Programmed
Projected
Qualified
Reconciled
Reduced
Researched
Retrieved
Helping
Skills
Adapted
Advocated
Aided
Answered
Arranged
Assessed
Assisted
Clarified
Coached
Collaborated
Contributed
Cooperated
Counseled
Demonstrated
Diagnosed
Educated
Encouraged
Ensured
Expedited
Facilitated
Familiarized
Furthered
Guided
Helped
Insured
Intervened
Motivated
Prevented
Provided
Referred
Rehabilitated
Represented
Resolved
Simplified
Supplied
Supported
Volunteered
Effective “Action” Words (Continued)
Management/
Leadership
Administered
Analyzed
Appointed
Approved
Assigned
Attained
Authorized
Chaired
Considered
Consolidated
Contracted
Controlled
Converted
Coordinated
Decided
Delegated
Developed
Directed
Eliminated
Emphasized
Enforced
Enhanced
Established
Executed
Generated
Handled
Headed
Hired
Hosted
Improved
Incorporated
Increased
Initiated
Inspected
Instituted
Led
Managed
Merged
Motivated
Navigated
Organized
Originated
Overhauled
Oversaw
Planned
Presided
Prioritized
Produced
Recommended
Reorganized
Replaced
Restored
Reviewed
Scheduled
Secured
Selected
Streamlined
Strengthened
Supervised
Terminated
Organizational
Skills
Approved
Arranged
Catalogued
Categorized
Charted
Classified
Coded
Collected
Compiled
Corrected
Corresponded
Distributed
Executed
Filed
Generated
Incorporated
Inspected
Logged
Maintained
Monitored
Obtained
Operated
Ordered
Organized
Prepared
Processed
Provided
Purchased
Recorded
Registered
Reserved
Responded
Reviewed
Routed
Scheduled
Screened
Submitted
Supplied
Standardized
Systematized
Updated
Validated
Verified
Research
Skills
Analyzed
Clarified
Collected
Compared
Conducted
Critiqued
Detected
Determined
Diagnosed
Evaluated
Examined
Experimented
Explored
Extracted
Formulated
Gathered
Inspected
Interviewed
Invented
Investigated
Located
Measured
Organized
Researched
10
Reviewed
Searched
Solved
Summarized
Surveyed
Systematized
Tested
Teaching
Skills
Adapted
Advised
Clarified
Coached
Communicated
Conducted
Coordinated
Critiqued
Developed
Enabled
Encouraged
Evaluated
Explained
Facilitated
Focused
Guided
Individualized
Informed
Instilled
Instructed
Motivated
Persuaded
Simulated
Stimulated
Taught
Tested
Trained
Transmitted
Tutored
Technical
Skills
Adapted
Applied
Assembled
Built
Calculated
Computed
Conserved
Constructed
Converted
Debugged
Designed
Determined
Developed
Engineered
Fabricated
Fortified
Installed
Maintained
Operated
Overhauled
Printed
Programmed
Rectified
Regulated
Remodeled
Repaired
Replaced
Restored
Solved
Specialized
Standardized
Studied
Upgraded
Utilized
Transferable Skills
Skills that bring value in career contexts are not limited to being useful within a single kind of
work, occupation, or vocational setting. For example, the ability to write effectively and in clear
language is valued highly in private industry, government agencies, educational institutions, and
nonprofit organizations. In fact, most of the skills that are important in any responsible job have
similar virtue: they can be applied in a wide variety of work contexts to a wide variety of tasks.
They are transferable. Include your transferable skills throughout your résumé: when describing
your work experience, your involvement in groups and activities, and your skills.
See the following examples below:
Dealing with the public
Cooperation
Teamwork
Initiative or self-direction
Leadership
Supervision
Persuading others
Promoting or selling
Resourcefulness
Adaptability
Teaching or coaching
Risk-taking
Accept and learn from criticism
Perseverance
Public speaking
Imagination or visualization
Set realistic goals
Set priorities
Negotiation or bargaining
Nurturing
Coming up with ideas
Budgeting
Computations
Constructing or assembling
Mechanical or precision work
Detail work
Technical knowledge
Writing
Solving Problems
Analyzing situations
Identify problems and needs
Meeting deadlines
Time management
Creativity
Design or artistic ability
Perceptiveness
Organization or planning
Research or investigation
Recognizing organizational structures
ADDITIONAL HEADINGS:
Additional headings should be used if they offer supporting evidence of your qualifications for
the job. Choose headings that are descriptive of the material that they lead. Examples include:
Honors, Professional Associations, Publications, Research, Leadership, or any other heading that
may support your career objective statement.
11
REFERENCES:
Create a separate sheet to list your professional and academic references that includes the
same title/header from your résumé. Be sure to have the document available when requested,
but it is not necessary to provide the references initially when making contact with a potential
employer.
When selecting references, be sure that these people will give you a high quality reference. A
“luke warm” reference can screen you out of a job. Before you list someone as a reference, check
with the recommender and ask their permission to list their contact information. In addition,
always provide your references with your current résumé, so they are familiar with all of your
achievements and experience. You will need 3-6 professional references. Ask professors,
advisors, and supervisors, NOT Aunt Vicki or your next door neighbor. Your references should
be able to describe your high potential, your achievements, and your performance while you
were in class or at work. Therefore, to insure your references are up to date on your current
accomplishments and involvements send them an updated resume. Be sure to list your
reference’s name, title, work address, phone number, and email address.
Hint: Having your list of references available when an employer asks for it will show that you
are motivated, well organized, and very interested in the position.
Sample of a separate list of references:
Mary Rattler
Current Address:
Charles Francis #123
San Antonio, Texas 78228
210/555-1234
mrattler@stmarytx.edu
Permanent Address:
1010 Charles Street
San Antonio, Texas 78213
210/555-6789
(After August 10, 2011)
Sr. /Dr. Ann Semel
Chair, English/Communication Studies
St. Mary’s University
One Camino Santa Maria
San Antonio, Texas 78228
(210) 436-3107
Dr. Rosalind Alderman
Associate Dean of Students
St. Mary’s University
One Camino Santa Maria
San Antonio, Texas 78228
(210) 436-3714
ralderman@stmarytx.edu
12
Chronological and Functional Résumés
Chronological Format:
The chronological format presents information in a fast and easy-to-read manner and is also the
easiest to write. Jobs are listed in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent or
present (which generally receives the greatest emphasis) and working back through the years.
Job title, employment dates, and name of the organization precede a description of the job tasks
and accomplishments.
Example:
Advertising Intern
May – August
2011
D and D Advertising, Los Angeles, CA
 Designed advertising campaign for 2011 Concert Series, including newspaper
promotions, mass mailings, posters, billboards, and radio spots
 Supervised team of 8 interns to create the concert series promotion strategy
 Awarded second place in Los Angeles’ Best Advertising Campaigns
Functional Format:
The functional resume allows more flexibility than the chronological. Job skills are featured by
grouping similar skill phrases together regardless of where or when the experience was gained.
This format ignores historical sequence is ignored as elements of training and experience from
several sources are grouped to show their applicability to your career goal.
Example:
ADVERTISING
 Developed $200,000 campaign for the 2011 Los Angeles Concert Series
 Created mass mailings, billboards, radio and television spots, newspaper promotions,
and posters
 Familiar with Mac Publisher, Quark XPress, and PageMaker
 Awarded second place in Los Angeles’s Best Advertising Campaign
LEADERSHIP
 President of St. Mary’s University’s Advertising Association
 Supervised team of 8 interns on the Los Angeles Concert Series promotion
13
Sample Chronological Resume (BASIC):
Mary Rattler
St. Mary’s University
Charles Francis Room 012
San Antonio, Texas 78228
(210) 436-3102
mrattler@stmarytx.edu
Permanent Address:
123 Rattler Street
Corpus Christi, Texas 75103
(210) 286-2299
After August 12, 2011
OBJECTIVE
To obtain an entry-level position in counseling field with direct client contact
SKILLS
Computer: Windows XP, Microsoft Office—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access; Photoshop
Language: Bilingual English and Spanish (written and verbal)
EDUCATION
Bachelors of Arts—Psychology,
St. Mary's University, San Antonio, TX
 Overall GPA: 3.4
December 2010
September – December 2009
Study Abroad Program
Oxford University, London, UK
 Semester GPA: 3.8
EXPERIENCE
Direct Trainer, Intern
May 2008-Present
ABC Development Center, San Antonio, TX
 Responsible for monitoring progress of patients
 Construct day-by-day lesson plans with educational curriculum consisting of Reading, Writing, Math and Arts
 Submit written analysis of program with positive/negative feedback
Office Assistant
August 2006-April 2008
Service Learning Center, San Antonio, TX
 Assisted students in locating community service activities
 Publicized events sponsored by the center promoting community involvement
 Planned and supervised summer immersion trip to New Orleans, Louisiana
Sales Associate
May 2005-August 2006
Sally’s Clothing Store, San Antonio, TX
 Assisted clients while demonstrating excellent customer service skills
 Tabulated cash, checks, and credit card charges
 Met target sales goal consistently
LEADERSHIP
Psychology Club
 Participate in fundraising and community service events
 Organize guest speaker events
September 2008 – Present
Sigma Alpha Chi Sorority
January 2008 – Present
 Publicity Chair: Publicize sorority events throughout campus
 Organize campus wide events including fundraiser for South American flood victims
Sample Functional Resume (BASIC):
14
Mary Rattler
123 Rattler Street
San Antonio, Texas 78213
(210) 286-2299
mrattler@stmarytx.edu
Education
Bachelor of Arts – Psychology—St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX—December 2010
Achievements
Customer Service



Assisted students in finding appropriate community service activities
Tabulated cash, checks, and credit card charges while maintaining excellent customer services
Maintained a friendly atmosphere at Sally’s Clothing Store
Progress Analysis


Construct day-by-day lesson plans with educational curriculum consisting of Reading,
Writing, Math and Arts
Submit written analysis of program with positive/negative feedback
Patient Supervision


Responsible for monitoring progress of patients
Construct day-by-day lesson plans with educational curriculum consisting of Reading,
Writing, Math and Arts
Leadership




Publicized programs sponsored by Service Learning Center promoting community
involvement
Planned and supervised summer immersion trip to New Orleans, Louisiana
Able to meet target sales goals consistently
Supervised crew in charge of material handling while building houses for needy families
Employment
Direct Trainer - ABC Development Center – May 2009 – Present
Office Assistant – Service Learning Center – August 2006 – April 2009
Sales Associate – Sally’s Clothing Store – May 2005 – August 2006
Activities
Psychology Club, September 2010 – Present
Sigma Alpha Chi Sorority, January 2009 – Present
15
Electronic Résumé Posting
With the advent of the Internet and new technology, job seekers have greater exposure to
employers by placing a résumé online. Using electronic résumés can help you perform a more
comprehensive job search. However, this technique should not be used as a replacement for
other more effective job search strategies like networking. Traditional hard copy résumés will
never be replaced by electronic résumés. However, more and more employers are searching for
candidates electronically and this trend will continue to grow in the future. These “e-résumés”
can take on several forms:
4 Types of Electronic Résumés
1. E-mail Résumé
The e-mail résumé is the most common form of an electronic résumé. Write your résumé
in a word document and save it with a professional title like the company’s name
followed by résumé. This will allow for you to attach your résumé into the e-mail as a
document, so not to jumble the format that you have spent time preparing.
RECOMMENDED NOTE: to go the extra mile you can also save as a PDF!
2. Web/HTML Résumé
After you create your résumé on the Web using hypertext markup language (HTML), you
can tell employers to point their browser to your web address to view your résumé. If
you use Rattler Connect through the Civic Engagement and Career Development office,
your résumé will be posted online for employers to access at
www.myinterfase.com/stmary/student/home.aspx. Contact our office to register with
Rattler Connect.
3. Scannable Résumé
An employer takes your hard copy résumé and scans it into a database and then conducts
a keyword search to select qualified candidates for available positions. The following
section on scannable résumés provides you with more information on how to create this
kind of résumé.
4. E-form Résumé
Many employers such as Pfizer (www.pfizer.com), Intel (www.intel.com), and Xerox
(www.xerox.com) have electronic forms or “e-forms” (online applications) where your
résumé information can be cut and pasted into boxes. It is then submitted or posted to
their electronic résumé bank and a keyword search is conducted to select qualified
candidates for specific positions within the company. You can also post to either a
clearinghouse site that has a variety of employers searching for résumés, or an industry
specific site such as Accounting Jobs (www.accountingjobs.com).
16
Internet Résumé Posting
Posting your résumé on some of the following sites will give you increased exposure to
employers. Check to see if the sites are free or fee-based, if confidentiality is available, and how
long they will keep your resume online (typically 60-90 days).
JobTRAK (www.jobtrak.com)
Job Bank
(www.jobbankinfo.org)
The Monster Board
(www.monster.com)
CareerPath (www.careerpath.com)
Career Builder (www.careerbuilder.com)
Electronic Résumé Resources on the Web
eRésumé and Resources (www.eresumes.com)
World Wide Web Résumé Bank (www.careermag.com/resumes/index.html)
Some Employers Using Scannable Resume Technology
Aetna (www.aetna.com)
Boeing (www.boeing.com)
Charles Schwab (www.charlesschwab.com)
Cigna (www.cigna.com)
Deloitte and Touche (www.us.deloitte.com)
Eastman Kodak (www.kodak.com)
Fidelity Investments (www.fidelity.com)
Hewlett Packard (www.hp.com)
IDX Systems (www.idx.com)
IBM (www.ibm.com)
Lockheed-Martin (www.lockheedmartin.com)
Microsoft (www.microsoft.com)
NationsBank (www.nationsbank.com)
Nike (www.nikebiz.com) Proctor and Gamble (www.pg.com)
State Farm Insurance (www.statefarm.com)
3M (www.mmm.com)
Tyson Foods (www.tyson.com)
USAA (www.usaa.com)
Wal-Mart (www.wal-mart.com)
Xerox (www.xerox.com)
17
Sample Résumé Formatted for Electronic Posting:
ALL CAPS for NAME, CATEGORIES and HEADINGS
MARTIN RATTLER
Charles Francis #123
San Antonio, TX 78228
210-555-1234
mrattler@stmarytx.edu
}
Use standard address format below your name
List each phone number on its own line
SUMMARY
Human resources and computer experience; strong organizational ability; excellent interpersonal,
analytical and problem solving skills.
Everything should be left-aligned using
EDUCATION
Arial font face.
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, Texas
Do not use TABS!
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology (August 2010)
Graduated Magna Cum Laude, GPA 3.8
Senior Research Project: The Impact of Intern Programs at Fortune 500 Companies
EXPERIENCE
Use common headings
THINGS TO AVOID
Human Resources Intern
ABC Consulting, San Antonio, Texas, Summer 2009
Organizer for coordination of internship program in southeastern United States
Assistant to manager for revision of COBRA benefits package system
Observer of labor contract negotiation over salary and vacation issues
Horizontal lines
Vertical lines
Italics
Underlining
Shadow text
 Bullets
Column format
Pictures
Graphics
Parentheses
{Brackets}
 Boxes
Student Assistant
Career Services, St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, Texas, September 2007 - May 2010
Presenter to classes and groups on résumé writing and interviewing skills
Interviewer for Mock Interview program
Reviewer of résumés and other job search correspondence
Your goal is to create a computer
Personnel Assistant
friendly résumé
Memorial Health, San Antonio, Texas, Summer 2008
Screener for applications for clerical positions in hospital
Caller for references for work performance records on applicants
Observer of application and interview process for hiring new professionals
Developer of brochure introducing programs offered by Personnel Office
ACTIVITIES
Use as many keywords as
possible!
Treasurer, Sociology Club, 2007-2011
Monitor of annual budget of $1,000 for activities throughout term
List in reverse chronological order. If
you have various jobs or activities that
overlap, list according to start date.
Fundraiser, Ronald McDonald House, 2010
Organizer and developer of campus-wide project raising $3,000 through a one-day event.
COMPUTER SKILLS
Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, Lotus 123, PageMaker, HTML, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint,
Paradox, SPSS - Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, Internet, Email
18
Preparing a Scannable Résumé
A scannable résumé is designed to be entered into a computerized database using an optical
scanner. The scanner “reads” the résumé and stores it as an ASCII text file. The scanning
technology can extract important information about you such as your name, contact information,
work history, years of experience, education, and skills. The more skills and facts you provide,
the more opportunities you will have for your skills to match available positions.
Although the general content of scannable résumés and conventional résumés are similar, a
résumé which is read and selected by a computer does not have the benefit of having a human’s
subjective input and interpretation. The computer searches for specific key words or phrases
when screening for qualified candidates. Conventional résumés often use more flowery and
descriptive terms along with fancy type fonts and layouts. Scannable résumés are best when
language is clear, concise, and in a format that highlights key points simply.
Tips and Guidelines on Format
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Use white or light colored paper, printed on one side only, using a laser printer.
Do not fold, staple, or paperclip.
Use a font size of 10 to 14 points. Good typefaces for scannable résumés include: Arial,
Courier New, CG Omega, and Letter Gothic.
Boldface is acceptable but use it sparingly. CAPITAL LETTERS can be substituted for
boldface.
Avoid italics, underlining, and shadowed text.
Do NOT use pictures or graphics.
Avoid vertical and horizontal lines, boxes, and two-column format.
Avoid the use of parentheses () or brackets{}, bullets  and hyphens/dashes- .
One page is no longer the rule. Most recent grads require one to two pages whereas
senior executives may require up to four.
Use white space. Computers use it to recognize that one topic has ended and another has
begun.
Tips and Guidelines on Content
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Your name should always be the first text on each page of the resume.
Use standard address format below your name.
List each phone number on its own line.
Use common headings such as: Objective, Experience, Skills, Accomplishments,
Education, Professional Affiliations, Honors, Activities, Licenses, etc.
Use nouns more than verbs (“project manager” instead of “implemented project”)
Minimize the use of abbreviations as not all computers will be programmed to know that
MPA is a Master of Public Administration. When in doubt, write it out!
Maximize the use of industry specific jargon and abbreviations because it is logical that
recruiters will program computers to search for industry buzz words– ICU (intensive care
unit), BLS (basic life support), and CCU (coronary care unit).
If you have a strange or unusual job title, explain it rather than changing it for simplicity.
19
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To increase your list of key words include specifics. For example, list software you use
such as “Microsoft Word” and “Quattro Pro” instead of “Computer Skills”
Key Words
The following are just a sample of key words scanners can look for on résumés. To become
familiar with good key words to use, check newspaper recruitment ads, review job descriptions,
if available, and talk with professional recruiters and/or professional associations in your field.
Examples of Key Words:
Writer
Time Management
Leadership
Marketing
Implement
Plan
Aggressive work
Analytical ability
Conceptual ability
Creative
Customer-oriented
Industrious
Open-minded
Public speaking
Results oriented
Willing to travel
BA (BBA, MBA, BS, etc)
Dependable
Sense of responsibility
Supervised
Train
Accurate
Assertive
College graduate
Detail oriented
Empowering others
Ethical
Innovative
Organizational skills
Relocation
Risk-taking
Team player
Spanish (language fluency)
Two Final Thoughts!
1) Avoid faxing the résumé to employers who use scanning systems, as faxing degrades text and
reduces the number of keywords that can be read. If you have to fax it, set the fax machine to
“fine mode” and back it up with a second hard copy through the mail.
2) Finally, it is okay to have two versions of your résumé: one for the computer to read and one
for people to read. The latter version could have a more creative layout and summarized
information. Carry this one with you to an interview.
20
What is a Curriculum Vita (CV)?
A curriculum vitae reflects, in the broadest sense, the essence, structure, and components of one’s
experiences as a graduate with credentials from institutions of higher education. It also includes
experiences pursued after such study. There are some common experiences that students and
professionals in a wide range of occupations share. The following categories are commonly used in the
construction of a CV:
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Professional/Career/Vocational/Research Objective(s)
Education
Coursework
Honors/Achievements/Awards/Kudos
Thesis/Dissertation Abstract
Research Interest(s)
Research and/or Laboratory Experience
Teaching Interests and Experience
Instrumentation Experience
Special Skills
Publications/Presentations/Works-in-Progress
Professional Associations
Work Experience
Community Service
Extracurricular Activities
Travel
References/Recommendations
These categories are not finite and should be tailored to meet your needs. Adapt them to fit your
experiences and use them as a basis for creating categories that more precisely fit your own situation.
The order in which these broad categories might appear on your CV should reflect the degree of
importance you attribute to them. Arrange them so that the most important information appears at the
beginning of your CV and the least important at the end. A typical CV’s range in length from 1-5 pages,
with expanded and detailed statements concerning the work accomplished and involvement in
professional associations.
Most employers will not ask for a CV as a resume will suffice. Should an employer request a CV, stop by
the Career Services Center for resources and review of your document.
Cover Letters
A cover letter is an introduction to a prospective employer. In general, it outlines your interest in the
position and organization, specifies the skills you have, and gives one or two relevant experiences or
examples. It should be brief (no more than one page) but provide enough information to entice the
recruiter to read your résumé and give you an interview. See example on the next page.
21
Cover Letter Layout:
Your Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Today’s Date
(4 Spaces)
Employer’s Full Name
Employer’s Title
Department
Name of Company
Street Address of PO Box
City, State Zip Code
(2 Spaces)
Dear Mr./Ms. __________________:
(2 Spaces)
How you heard about the job or why you are writing. Name the position for which you are applying or the
type of work in which you are interested. Mention a contact’s name if appropriate.
(2 Spaces)
Why you are qualified for this particular job and this type of work. Why you are interested in and
qualified for this industry. Relate your relevant work experience and education to the criteria and
qualifications. Emphasize your skills and abilities that relate to the job. Use one or two brief and strong
examples. Mention personal transferable type skills.
(2 Spaces)
Include a paragraph on what you know about the company and a current project they may be working on,
and how you can use your skills can help. This involves doing some background work on the company
via the internet or information interviews, but this will show your interest in the position and company to
the employer.
(2 Spaces)
Refer to your enclosed résumé. Mention your willingness to provide letters of reference, transcripts, etc.
Indicate that you will contact him/her within a certain period of time or that you look forward to hearing
from him/her.
(2 Spaces)
Sincerely,
(4 Spaces)
Type your name here
22
Don’t forget to sign your name!)
Sample Cover Letter:
Mary Rattler
Charles Francis #123 San Antonio, Texas 78228
210/436-5555 (home) mrattler@stmarytx.edu
September 1, 2010
Lillian Lemmons, Director of Personnel
Rattler Marketing Company
One Treadaway Circle
San Antonio, Texas 78228
Dear Ms. Lemmons:
In response to the Management/Sales Trainee position you posted on August 25th on Rattler Connect, I
would like to submit my resume for your consideration. I am confident my education and experiences
have prepared me well for a position in a dynamic organization such as yours.
As you can see from the enclosed resume, I will be graduating in May from St. Mary’s University with a
degree in Marketing. My coursework for this major has helped me learn the basic principles, including
sales, management and marketing. Moreover, my education has helped me sharpen the communication
and teamwork skills necessary to be a manager with Rattler Marketing Company.
In addition, please note my experience in retail sales at Sally’s Clothing Store. In this position, not only
was I able to improve my sales technique and customer service skills, but I also learned how to work
within a large retail environment. I have also spent much of time at St. Mary’s working on campus as a
student assistant in the Career Services Center. During this time, I learned the importance of building
positive relationships with my co-workers as well as meeting the daily challenge of providing exceptional
customer service to our diverse constituents. I know these experiences have given me the perfect
foundation for a position with your organization.
I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you regarding the Management/Sales Trainee position. I
will call you late next week to discuss this possibility or you can reach me at 210/436-5555. Thank you
for considering me for this position.
Sincerely,
(Remember to sign!)
Mary Rattler
Enclosure
23
REMEMBER--Recruiters do not like standard, boring cover letters. They can pick out a generic or
formula cover letter very quickly. This section will explain the general components of cover letters but
you should adapt your cover letters as needed to show that you are a wonderful, qualified candidate. A
cover letter should be included for any contact with the recruiter including e-mails.
Cover Letter Pointers
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Address the letter to a specific individual. If you are not sure to whom to address it, contact the
company to find out the name of the hiring official, verify the spelling of his or her name, and the
correct title. If a name is not available, address you letter to the position (i.e. Dear Personnel
Director or Dear Manager).
Use matching paper for resume, cover letter, and envelope.
Customize your letter for each resume that is sent. Mass produced letters are easily detected and
show a lack of sincere interest.
The tone of the letter should always be positive and confident.
Always remember to sign your letters with blue or black ink.
Tailor the letter to the needs of the company and the position requirements.
Avoid negativity, boasting, exaggeration, insincerity, and inconsistency.
Take time to demonstrate enthusiasm and creativity.
Keep it brief and to the point, leaving out irrelevant information. Focus on information related to
your career goals.
Use one inch margins on all sides.
Make sure there are no errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
Keep a copy of all job search correspondence for your reference.
Other Important Correspondence
Letter of Inquiry:
This letter is useful when you are interested in a specific employer. It informs the employer of your
interest in his/her organization and gives you an opportunity to ask for information about future or
unadvertised positions.
Acceptance Letters:
Even though you have given verbal acceptance or rejection, professionalism states that you follow up with
a letter. When accepting a position, express your enthusiasm, mention any necessary paperwork, physical
exams, etc. that you are completing, and reiterate your start date and starting salary.
Withdrawal Letters:
If you wish to withdraw from consideration for a position, write the employer a note expressing that you
appreciate their consideration but that you are no longer interested in the position. While this letter may
seem silly or unnecessary, consider the possibility that a future opening more in line with your interests
may become available. How would it look if they noticed that you did not return their phone calls and
never followed up on a previous interview?
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Thank You Notes:
A thank you note should be written to all people who interviewed you. Some job searchers have gone so
far as to write notes to everyone they met, including secretaries. If you really want that job, you may
want to consider this since many employers ask everyone who met the candidates for their opinions.
As a general format, thank the individual for their time, mention one or two things that you discussed or
that interested you, and confirm your interest in the position. The thank you note is your last chance to
make a good impression before the hiring decision is made. Many times, an employer will go with the
candidate who wrote a thank you note.
Sample Thank You Note:
Mary Rattler
Charles Francis #123 San Antonio, Texas 78228
210/436-5555 (home) mrattler@stmarytx.edu
September 2, 2010
Lillian Lemmons, Director of Personnel
Rattler Marketing Company
One Treadaway Circle
San Antonio, Texas 78228
Dear Ms. Lemmons:
Thank you for taking time with me yesterday to discuss opportunities at Rattler Marketing Company. I
enjoyed our discussion and the tour of your operations here in San Antonio. The Marketing Coordinator
position with your organization sounds like a perfect match for my education and skills. I was very
impressed with the company literature and annual report you shared with me. It is clear you have
energetic staff who is dedicated to making your organization the fastest growing marketing company in
the Southwest.
I was especially excited about the upcoming marketing project that you described. My marketing
internship, along with my writing, public relations, and computer skills, match well with the tasks you
described as necessary to get the project up and running. I would enjoy being a part of your team.
I understand that you will be getting back with me sometime within the next two weeks. If I can provide
any additional information in the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me at 210/436-5555. I look
forward to the possibility of working with you.
Sincerely,
(Remember to sign!)
Mary Rattler
25
Sample Résumé Layouts
We have included some sample résumés for you to review. Remember that there is not a singular magic
résumé layout. You can select on of the samples included in this handout, or combine elements of a
variety of résumés to create a résumé that you feel best highlights your skills and experiences.
Remember--This is your resume and the most important thing is for you to create a product that you
are comfortable with and that draws attention to your skills and experiences. Remember that the Civic
Engagement and Career Development office is here to assist you at any point in the résumé writing
process. We recommend that you have a career advisor review your résumé to ensure that you are
presenting yourself in the best light.
To set up a résumé review, contact the Civic Engagement and Career Development office at: Phone:
(210) 436-3102 Or E-mail: civcandcareer@stmarytx.edu
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MARY RATTLER
One Camino Santa Maria San Antonio, TX 78228
(210) 436-3102 mrattler@stmarytx.edu
OBJECTIVE
A position as a high school history/social studies teacher
SKILLS
Computer: MS Office—Word, Excel, Access
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts—History
December 2010
Minor—Secondary Education
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
 GPA 3.2
 Financed 80% of education through employment, summer jobs and scholarships
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Student Teacher
September – December 2010
San Antonio High School. San Antonio, TX
 Planned, developed and implemented curriculum for six US History classes for high school
sophomores and juniors
 Effectively organized time, space and resources to balance heavy workload and deadlines
 Managed classroom of 30-35 students, effectively instructing and evaluating learning while
maintaining discipline
 Planned extracurricular learning activities including advising the Interact Club
Tutor
September 2008 – Present
Sylvan Learning Center. San Antonio, TX
 Instructed junior and senior high school students in the areas of History, English and study skills
Counselor
May – August 2008-2010
Madison Center Park Recreation. Somers Point, NJ
 Taught, coached and led groups of 10-15 students (ages 12-15) in various activities
 Planned and implemented curriculum for the “Learn While You Laugh” program
 Supervised day trips
 Corrected disciplinary problems. Interacted with parents and senior staff members
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
President of Student Government, St. Mary’s University, 2006 – 2009
Student Government Representative, St. Mary’s University, 2006 – 2010
Resident Hall Association, St. Mary’s University, 2009
27
JOE RATTLER
One Camino, San Antonio, TX 78228
Telephone: (210) 123-4567 Email: jrattler@stmarytx.edu
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a sales/marketing position with Enterprise Rent-A-Car
SKILLS
Computer: MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access; Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
Language: Bilingual English / Spanish
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
 GPA 3.5 (major); 3.2 (cumulative)
 Minor: Spanish
Expected Graduation May 2009
Program for Entrepreneurial Studies
Fall 2007 – Fall 2008
 Member of one of the very few nationally recognized sales programs
 Program focuses on effective sales techniques of products, services, and personality and
marketing ideas
 Created marketing sales call plans and met product sales quotas
WORK EXPERIENCE
Marketing Director/Patient Services Coordinator
Present SA Dental Group, San Antonio, TX
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August 2009 -
Write press releases on a routine basis, select channels of communication and distribute releases
to select media outlets
Visit various businesses to educate them on business services and develop on average 4 new
clients per month from these visits
Conduct market research by administering questionnaires, conducting telephone surveys and
tabulating data
Select dates and negotiate fees for surgical procedures
LEADERSHIP
American Marketing Association, St. Mary’s University
Present


January 2008 -
President - Provide leadership and overall direction to 75-member group. Increased
membership by 30% over a one-year period by offering increased professional development
and leadership opportunities. November 2006 – Present
Vice President of Programming – Founding member of St. Mary’s American Marketing
Association. Arranged for marketing professionals to speak at general meetings, reserved
rooms for meetings and oversaw the operations and productivity of the programs committee.
Effectively delegated tasks and measured results. January – November 2006
28
One Camino Santa Maria
San Antonio, Texas 78228
(210) 123-4567
MARY RATTLER
mrattler@stmarytx.edu
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a summer internship position in Electrical Engineering.
EDUCATION
08/2008 – 05/2012
Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, Texas
Cumulative GPA: 3.43, Major GPA: 3.56
EXPERIENCE
5/2011 – 7/2011
Co-op Engineer
NASA/Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center – Houston, TX
 Install and test electrical harness assemblies of the Orbital Maneuvering System
(OMS) and Reaction Control System (RCS).
 Revise computer program used by orbit flight dynamics officers to convert state
vectors to other formulas.
 Coordinate testing/analysis of wind tunnels, captive carry flights, drops, and ram-air
inflated parachutes for X38 vehicle in Applied Aerosciences Branch.
 Participate in achievement planning and program team meetings.
5/2010 – 8/2010
Electrical Engineering Intern
Lockheed Martin – Houston, TX
 Repackaged and tested custom and over-the-counter software applications.
 Installed software and insured software programs were user friendly.
 Communicated with customer to resolve issues, understand requirements and ensure
the product performed to their satisfaction.
5/2009 – 4/2010
Office Assistant
School of Science, Engineering, and Technology, St. Mary’s University – San Antonio, TX
 Filed records, scheduled appointments and assisted students with questions.
 Developed professional promotional materials using Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.
 Coordinated weekly student-faculty advisement meetings.
 Ordered, maintained, and distributed office equipment and supplies.
SKILLS
Computer: C, C++, Mathcad, Pspice, Visio, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access
Instruments: Programmable Logic Controllers, Transducers, Thermocouples
Language: Fluently read, write and speak Spanish
HONORS
Dean’s List – 4 consecutive semesters
Tau Beta Pi National Engineering Honor Society
St. Mary’s University Presidential Scholarship
Fall 2008 – Spring 2010
Fall 2007 – Present
Spring 2009 – Present
ACTIVITIES/
LEADERSHIP
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Society of Women Engineers
Student Advisory Committee
President (2009 – 2010)
Secretary (2008 – 2009)
Treasurer (2007 – 2008)
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JOE RATTLER
One Camino Santa Maria • San Antonio, TX 78228
(210) 123-4567 • JRATTLER@STMARYTX.EDU
OBJECTIVE
To obtain the Process Engineer position with Valero Energy Corp...
EDUCATION
Master of Science, Chemical Engineering – Expected May 2011
 GPA: 3.55 – St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
 Courses: Advanced Reaction Engineering, Advanced Process Control, Reaction Kinetics for Industrial
Processes, Operations Research – Optimization Methods, Chemical Processing for Microelectronics
Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering – Awarded December 2009
 GPA: 3.37 – Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
 Minor: Chemistry, Curriculum Focus: Process Control
RESEARCH AND DESIGN PROJECTS
Advanced Reaction Engineering Course: January 2009 – Present
 Evaluate chemical processes and equipment utilized for reactor system.
 Analyze heat transfer and pressure drops in packed reactor beds.
 Review calculations, charts and flow diagrams to analyze impact of heat loss from reactors on electronic
components.
Advanced Process Control Course: August – December 2009
 Designed and specified chemical process equipment for pressure vessel relief system.
 Performed calculations/basic preliminary analysis and evaluated equipment suppliers.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Computer:
 Operating Systems: UNIX, DOS and Windows
 Programming Languages: C, C++, BASIC, Visual BASIC, FORTRAN, MATLAB
 Publishing Languages: Latex, HTML, JavaScript
 Application Software: MATLAB, Mathematica, Eclipse, Microsoft Office
Numerical Methods: Finite Elements, Finite Volumes PED Integration, SIMPLEX and Interior Point
Optimization Methods
HONORS
 Tau Beta Pi National Engineering Honor Society – Inducted September 2009
 Omega Chi Epsilon Chemical Engineering Honor Society – Inducted November 2006
COMMUNITY SERVICE
 Oak Hills Elementary, San Antonio, TX – Tutor students in Mathematics and Science; Utilize visual aids to
instruct courses; Assist teacher with lesson plans (August 2009 – present)
 American Cancer Society, San Antonio, TX – Participated in Annual Relay for Life Walk-A-Thon (July 2008)
30
JOE RATTLER
One Camino Santa Maria
San Antonio, TX 78228
(210) 123-4567
jrattler@stmarytx.edu
Career Focus: Trainer/Training Manager
PROFILE
 Highly creative and self-motivated with innovative ideas and concepts for increasing the transference of
learning from the classroom to the job and in motivating employees
 Outstanding interpersonal and employee-relations skills with ability to teach improved communication,
diversity skills, and to aid in settling employee disputes
 Extremely computer literate with skills in Windows XP, Microsoft Office Suite, Desktop Publishing with
QuarkExpress, Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign, and training software development with Authorware 4.0
 Languages include American Sign Language and oral and written fluency in Italian
EDUCATION
MBA—Human Resources (focus) – Major GPA: 3.92
St. Mary’s University – San Antonio, TX, May 2010
B.A. English – Major GPA 3.5
St. Mary’s University – San Antonio, TX, May 2006
Training:
Program Design & Management…Instructional Systems Design…Assessment & Evaluation…Methods of Adult
Learning…Facilitating Adult Group Processes …Certified in Alternative Dispute Resolution
Honors:
National Honorary Professional Graduate Society for Human Resources
EXPERIENCE
2/08 – Present
Organizational Development Manager
The Eden Fund, San Antonio, TX
High profile position with diverse responsibilities including staff recruitment and training, grant writing, fundraising
development, event planning, public relations, membership solicitation, and development and delivery of
public/motivational training programs development and delivery.
 Organized and led membership drives, increasing membership over 50%
 Successfully raised 100% of yearly operating funds for this non-profit organization
Human Resources Coordinator/Membership Chairperson/Development Assistant
1/07 - 12/07
San Antonio Museum of Arts, San Antonio, TX
Recruited, trained, organized, coordinated, and supervised museum docents, volunteers, and support staff for all
special events functions. Assisted in grant writing and fundraising activities. Concurrent responsibilities as
Membership Chair included public relations and all phases of membership solicitation.
 Increased museum membership up 20%
 Generated over 100% in yearly operating funds through effective campaign development
1/06 - 12/07
Assistant to Public Relations Director
The Decorative Center, San Antonio, TX
Designed and created newsletter, conducted direct mail campaigns to promote trade publication. Hired and trained
event support staff.
 Designed, developed, and published a directory for publication in Designer’s West Magazine that significantly
increased patronage within the Decorative Center
31
JOE RATTLER
One Camino Santa Maria, San Antonio, TX 78228
(210) 123-4567, jrattler@stmarytx.edu
A Master’s level Counselor specializing in working with families in health care settings. Experience in health care has
resulted in an understanding of complex medical terminology, which facilitates efficient interaction with interdisciplinary
team members, clients and their families.
EDUCATION
Master of Community Counseling, St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX, May 2011
Bachelor of Science, Psychology (Sociology Minor), St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX, December 2008
 Dean’s List: 2006, 2007, 2008; Magna Cum Laude
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Critical Care Community Counseling Intern, Methodist Children’s Hospital, San Antonio, TX, Fall 2009- Present (450 hrs)
Perform psychosocial assessment with patients and families in the Pediatric Intensive Care and
Progressive Care units
Provide families with information and referrals to community resources
Assist staff Social Worker work with families to obtain and receive Medicaid, CHIP, SSI, and Medicaid waiver
program benefits
Counsel and provide crisis intervention with families
Assist in discharge planning
Assess for child abuse and neglect and assisted in CPS investigations
School Counseling Intern, McDermott Elementary School, San Antonio, TX, Spring 2007- Summer 2008 (600 hrs)
Facilitated group and individual counseling sessions with students
Referred students and their families to community resources
Provided crisis intervention to students and families
Developed and implemented an intensive summer program for at-risk youth
Community Building Intern, United Way of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, Summer 2006- Fall 2007, (480 hrs)
Conducted, designed, and published a needs assessment for children, ages 0-6 years
Developed a strategic plan and wrote the implementation grant for the “Success By 6” program
Fund Raising Coordinator, Counseling Student Association, St. Mary’s University, 2007-2008
Developed a successful and diversified fund raising campaign, raising over $21,000
Demonstrated abilities in leadership and teamwork
Received Excellence in Fund Raising Award, American Humanics Management Institute, 2008
Clinical Internship in Child Development Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine/Rice University, Honors Premedical
Academy, Houston, TX, Summer 2009
Assessed children with developmental delays and disorder at The Meyer Center at TCH
Developed assessments for children at Ben Taub’s Premature and SGA follow-up clinic
PRESENTATION
Rattler, Joe M. (January, 2006). Successful AHSA Fund Raising Campaigns. Presented at the American
Humanics Management Institute, Tashban, MO.
HONORS AND AFFLIATIONS
Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Graduate School of Social Work, St. Mary’s University, 2009
American Counseling Association, 2008
Court Appointed Special Advocate, Child Advocates, Inc., 2007-2009
Counseling Student/Alumni Association, 2008-Present
Grace Place Alzheimer’s Center, 2007-2010
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Joe Rattler
One Camino Santa Maria
San Antonio, TX 78228
(210)123-4567
jrattler@stmarytx.edu
CAREER FOCUS: Software Development / Programming / Systems Analysis
COMPUTER KNOWLEDGE
Languages
C/C++/Visual C++
Java/J++
Visual Basic
SQL
Assembly
Perl/CGI
VBScript/JavaScript
HTML/DHTML
ASP
PHP
Operating Systems
Windows 9x/NT
Linux
Unix
DOS
BSD
Solaris
OS Services
Win32
COM/ActiveX
ADO
DDE
RPCs/DLLs
DirectX
Sockets
Interprocess
Communication
Threads/Processes
Software
Microsoft Visual
Studio
Oracle
GNU GCC/G++
Compiler
Microsoft Office
Telnet
Other
Unified Modeling
Language
Removable Storage
Devices
Network/Database
Administration
SGML
XML
EDUCATION
B.S., Computer Science, Minor: Management Information Systems
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
 Dean’s List
 GPA: 3.34
 Financed 100% of college expenses
December 2010
Fall 2009
Related Courses: C/C++ Programming, Data Structures, Database Management Systems, Operating Systems, Network
Programming, Internet Computing, Systems Analysis and Design, Interactive Systems, Management Information Systems,
Software Project Development
RELATED PROJECTS
 Programmed an interactive Eco-Simulator demonstrating AI and extensive OOA/OOD, written in Visual C++.
 Developed a point-of-sales terminal for product data retrieval, sales validation, and automatic reordering, using SQL and
Visual Basic.
Object-Oriented Programming
 Designed an MS Access DBMS that analyzes, reports, and graphs the inventory/employee data of a prototype company.
 Created an Oracle-powered database for data manipulation of a virtual bookstore’s catalog information.
 Developed an automated membership enrollment system, expected to save 20+ man hours/month for the Asian Chamber
of Commerce.
Database Design
 Established a UNIX-based application demonstrating the use of interprocess communication and synchronization.
 Streamlined a client/server solution using UNIX sockets and Perl to implement a file transfer protocol for data delivery.
Other Projects
 Produced a text based proxy server utilizing TCP sockets as part of Network Programming class project.
 Designed a web-based content management system using PHP and SQL.
 Developed a WinPopup program implementing RPCs with Java, enabling real-time paging in a chat room environment.
EMPLOYMENT
Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio, TX
Summers 2008-2010
 Interpreted and explained CAD-generated drawings, used trigometric functions for measurement/construction/placement
of materials, and communicated effectively with managing foreman.
 100% increase in team performance led to a promotion after only 3 months of employment.
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MARY RATTLER
One Camino Santa Maria ♦ San Antonio, TX ♦ Phone: (210) 123-4567 ♦ E-Mail: cchemist0@stmarytx.edu
OBJECTIVE
Position as a Recruiter in the science industry that will benefit from my:
Marketing Skills / Laboratory Knowledge / Sales and Customer Service Experience.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Minor: Biology, May 2011
St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
 GPA: 3.4
Related Coursework:
Organic Chemistry
Quantitative Analysis
Inorganic Chemistry
Qualitative Analysis
Biochemistry
Physics
FT-IR
Auto/Manual Titration’s
GC
HPLC
Distillation
Wet Chemistry
LABORATORY SKILLS
TOC
UV/Vis Spectrometer
Extractions
EXPERIENCE
Lab Technician, PENRECO, San Antonio, TX, July 2010-Present
 Perform, record and report environmental, white oil, and sulfonate testing.
 Ensure products meet defined standards of quality.
 Control quality in order to supply adequate and dependable products.
 Handle and maintain accounts with customers and suppliers.
Assistant Sales Manager, Highland Lakes Realty, San Antonio, TX, Feb 2008-May 2010
 Conducted direct marketing to the public of luxury apartments, overseeing the sales process from
generating leads and referrals through contract closure, which increased rentals in a highly competitive
market.
 Managed and maintained 120 apartment units while keeping occupancy levels over 98%.
 Enhanced existing website which increased customer awareness of new apartment community features
and as a result, first-time customer traffic.
 Created a highly effective advertising slogan and developed marketing flyers resulting in an increase in
new customers and heightened target market interest.
Sales Associate, OLD NAVY, San Antonio, TX, Jan 2009-Dec 2009
 Directed sales of merchandise to customers and provided assistance in merchandise selection.
 Completed sales and customer service training.
 Achieved Top Sales Associate out of over 25 Sales Associates, 2009.
Pharmacy Technician, HEB Pharmacy, San Antonio, TX, Aug 2008-Dec 2009
 Answered customer inquiries and developed a large personal customer base, which demonstrated
thorough product knowledge and excellent customer service.
 Filled prescriptions, communicated with physicians, and assisted customers with purchases.
 Maintained and purchased inventory and managed cash transactions in a fast-paced environment.
 Earned the 5-Year Service Award, 2000.
CERTIFICATIONS


Licensed Pharmacy Technician, 2008 – Present
Certified CPR/First Aid, 2010
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JOE RATTLER
One Camino Santa Maria San Antonio, TX 78228
(210) 123-4567Bmoran0@stmarytx.edu
Qualifications
Hard-working and accomplished broadcasting major with excellent interpersonal, research, and
oral/written communication skills. Solid record of academic performance, resulting in Presidential
scholarship. Proven ability to work under time pressure and meet tight deadlines. Recognized for
ability to think independently and solve problems. High standards of accuracy along with excellent
attention to detail.
Education
B.S. St. Mary’s University
San Antonio, TX
Major/Minor:
English Communication Arts/History
GPA: 3.26 (Dean’s list, Dean’s scholarship)
One semester junior year spent in London with the Study Abroad program.
December 2011
Activities:
 Reporter and staff writer for campus Newspaper.
 Producer/Host of weekly radio sports wrap-up program for WOAI AM 1200
 Intern at KSAT, Channel 12, San Antonio.
Special Project/Community Service:
 Researched and wrote 12-page promotional handbook designed to increase
clientele of London’s Children’s Society, England.
Skill Areas:
 Communication – Created and presented accurate and thorough reports of news
and sports events under deadlines, developed promotional materials, and wrote
advertising/marketing copy.
 Information Management/Research – Gathered reliable information through
interviews, library investigation, and Internet research.
 Interpersonal – Collaborated with others to produce and develop radio/TV
broadcasts and prepare reports.
 Computer – Developed proficiency in Microsoft Word and in various customized
software programs in short period of time.
Work History
Producer/Host Radio Sports Wrap-Up − WOAI AM 1200, San Antonio, TX
Present
Assistant (work-study) – DataCom, Boston, MA
Accounts Payable Data Clerk – Express News, San Antonio, TX
Vendor – Creative Baskets, San Antonio, TX
Summer 2008
Lab Assistant, Blood Lab – Downtown Baptist Hospital, San Antonio, TX
Cashier – various retail businesses, Downtown San Antonio, TX
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Fall 2008 –
Summer 2010
Summer 2009
Summer 2007
2007
Joe Rattler
One Camino Santa Maria
San Antonio, Texas 78228
(210) 123-4567
jrattler@stmarytx.edu
CAREER FOCUS: Marketing / Sales / Account Relations
STRENGTHS and SKILLS:






Highly creative, self-motivated professional with marketing, sales and customer relations experience.
Ability to conceptualize and generate new ideas, analyze problems and develop effective solutions.
A dependable team player who relates well and works cooperatively with diverse personalities.
Fast learner with demonstrated initiative and dedication to the achievement of organizational goals.
Focus on providing exceptional service resulting in customer satisfaction and repeat business.
Computer capabilities include Windows 98, Microsoft Office Suite and Publisher.
EDUCATION:
B.B.A. in Marketing  St. Mary's University  San Antonio, Texas  May 2011
Courses included:
Marketing Principles … Marketing Research … Consumer Behavior
Advertising Principles … Advertising Campaigns … Sales Management
ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
Marketing
& Research




Sales &
Promotions



Customer
Relations
& Service


Organized and launched successful direct mail marketing campaign for new product.
Created an advertising campaign for Levi jeans from concept development through
copywriting for a college advertising project.
Earned top grade for designing comprehensive business, marketing and sales plan as well as
management structure for a college marketing project.
Researched and compiled target database of 100 clients representing diverse industries.
Consistently achieved sales volume for a sporting equipment retail business.
Recognized by management for sales performance, surpassing productivity levels of full-time
associates store-wide.
Promoted and sold products at Wolfe Stadium for the Missions, earning more than $5,000 in
commissions and tips to contribute to college expenses.
Addressed customer inquiries, serving as an informational resource and referring calls to
appropriate staff for technical support.
Commended by management and customers for ability to build trust and confidence, resulting
in repeat business and increased sales.
EXPERIENCE:
Sales Associate  SAS Shoes, San Antonio, Texas  2011 – Present
Marketing Intern  Valero Energy, San Antonio, Texas  2009
Sales Associate  Neiman Marcus, San Antonio, Texas  2007 – 2008
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