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Curriculum Vitae Guide: Build Your Curriculum Vitae (c.v.)

Curriculum Vitae Guide

The process of writing a curriculum vitae (c.v.) takes considerable time and effort.  The c.v. is often an employer's first impression of your credentials, so it may be a very critical factor in whether you are selected for an interview. 

Your c.v. should be tailored toward the specific position for which you are applying.  We suggest that you research information about the employer and their challenges, the position you are considering, and the mission/vision of the organization before writing your c.v. 

This guide provides "How To" instructions on organizing and formatting your c.v., and includes examples of common c.v. sections.  The order of your sections can change and additional sections may be added to highlight your unique experience as you align your strengths, skills, and accomplishments to the needs of your potential employer. To increase readability, we recommend using an 11-12 point font and single spacing throughout your document.


Below are common sections to include in your c.v.:

Contact Information
Summary of Qualifications
Education
Licenses and Certifications
Experience
Publications
Presentations and Papers
Honors and Awards
Grants
Community Service
Professional Affiliations
References
Additional Sections


Select any one of these sections for detailed instructions on how to build or strengthen your document. For additional information on creating your c.v., navigate to Resumes & More or visit SkillsFirst for curriculum vitae samples.