Resumes, Cover Letters and References
Resume
A resume is a one to two-page document that highlights a job seeker's experiences and qualifications for employers of interest. It is an employer's first impression of you, so it is important that the document concisely highlight your career goals, education, field experiences, work experiences, activities, special skills and accomplishments in a manner that will market you effectively. You only get one shot to make a good first impression! Schedule an appointment with the Career Development Center through Navigate to review your document before sending it to an employer.
In the Career Development Center, we recognize the value of AI in the job search process and encourage you to use it to refine your materials, find industry-specific job boards, and tailor your resume and cover letter to specific positions. Just make sure you avoid letting AI erase your personality or exaggerate your skills. Employers value authentic voices and real examples.
Forage: Resume and Cover Letter Support
Saint Xavier University has partnered with Forage to offer students a range of interactive
simulations and short career-focused courses. These experiences are a great way to
strengthen your resume, build practical skills, and learn how to effectively communicate
your experiences to employers.
If you’re interested in standing out to recruiters, consider exploring the courses
below. To get started, access Forage using the link provided, click “Log In,” and
select “Sign in with SSO.” You’ll use your SXU email and credentials to enter. You
can also access these simulations directly through Navigate360 by navigating to “Job
Simulations” under the Applications tab.
Resume Writing with AI Support
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Practice your skills with example tasks and build your confidence to ace your applications. Ever wonder:
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How to Get Hired
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Learn how to increase your chances of getting hired. This series provides exclusive insights into how to network, get experience, build your resume, and land an interview. |
Do's and Don'ts of AI in Career Tools
| Do | Don't |
| Use AI for ideas, structure, and research. | Copy/paste without reviewing. |
| Cross-check AI suggestions with real-world job postings and advisor feedback. | Misrepresent your experience. |
Resume Templates
Please explore our available resume templates below:
Handshake provides students with helpful resources and tips for developing employment documents such as Resumes, including How to Create a Student or New Graduate Resume.
Cover Letter
A cover letter is a one-page document that introduces yourself and your resume to an employer. This document highlights your skills, experience, and education and encourages the reader to read your resume. An original cover letter should be written for each position you apply and highlight your most significant qualities as it relates to the position you are applying.
Cover Letter Formatting
Handshake also provides students with helpful resources and tips for developing employment documents such as Cover Letters, including a Free Cover Letter Template for Students and New Graduates.