Write Resumes & Cover Letters

Learn how to write a resume and a cover letter

Resumes and cover letters are your main tools for marketing yourself to potential employers for internships, jobs, and volunteer opportunities. So, it’s important to take time to ensure that your materials are error-free, and represent your professional self.

When applying, you may also need other materials, such as a portfolio or a list of references.

What is a resume?

A resume is a marketing document that outlines your previous experiences in a way that shows that you are the best candidate for the position you are applying for. It’s meant to be between one and two pages, and should be tailored to each position you apply to.

A resume is different from a curriculum vitae (CV), which is traditionally used by those in academia and research. Both are also different from a federal resume, which is required for applying to jobs with the U.S. government.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a letter written to a prospective employer, with the purpose of explaining who you are, and how your experiences make you a qualified candidate for a specific position.

Featured Articles

Tailoring a Cover Letter Worksheet

This worksheet created by Western Carolina University is a great tool for identifying key traits and qualities that connect you to the position that you’re applying for. See a preview below and click the “View Resource” to Download!

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Resources for Entering the Workforce Post-Parental Leave

We have compiled a few tips on entering the workforce for KATIEs who are pursuing a degree while planning to join the workforce after a parental leave!

If you would like support in developing an action plan to make concrete …

By Teresa Butel
Teresa Butel Employer & Career Specialist
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FirstYear Cover Letter Example

Click the button below to make a copy of this Google document to make it your own!

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Address

CdC | Room 210
2004 Randolph Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55105

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Wednesday 8:00am - 4:30 pm
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Appointments may be available from 4:30-6:00 based on staffing capacity.