Resume

A resume is a formal structured itemization of one's accomplishments and experiences.

Purpose of a resume

A resume, also known as a curriculum vitae or C.V., seeks in a concise manner to summarize a person's career experience, personal qualifications, and accomplishments. The resume is the initial approach used to enhance one's chances to secure the position being sought. Its goal should be to

• Make an initial positive impression on prospective employers.

• Facilitate your chances of eventually securing an interview.

• Serve as a source of information in the preparatory material prior to an interview.

• Assist in selling yourself at interviews by highlighting major achievements.

Contents of a resume

A resume should contain accurate relevant information about your life. Its contents should include your

• Educational background starting at the college level and beyond.

• Rewards and honors received at college and/or during medical school.

• Research experience in the course of undergraduate and medical education.

• Clinical experience, especially if relevant to the residency area of interest.

• Organizational memberships, both in college and in medical school.

• Employment experience, at any level, relevant to the medical profession.

• Foreign language capabilities, both oral and written, and their depth.

• Computer skills and potential in terms of your training and experience.

When preparing your resume, be certain to avoid items that can leave a negative impression:

• Spelling or grammatical errors leave an especially poor opinion of the writer.

• Disorganization in presentation, so that the information is not logically arranged.

• Discussing your availability for the position, because it is premature.

• A gap in the sequence of activities, which can raise uncertainty about you.

• Indicating desired salary range, which is far too premature.

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