résumés & cover letters - apprentice...
TRANSCRIPT
According to researchers, the average resume gets
Between 8-30 seconds of review time…
Make Your Seconds Count!
Friends University Career Services
316-295-5832 or 316-295-5636
www.friends.edu/career-services
Résumés &
Cover Letters
Résumé Guidelines
Your résumé and cover letter have a single purpose: to obtain an interview. The résumé is an advertising tool; it is an
organized summary about your qualifications as a potential employee. Start the career planning process by taking a
personal inventory of your skills, interests, accomplishments, and experiences. The Campus and Career Transitions Office
can assist you with this process.
• Since employers may spend as little as 30 seconds reviewing a résumé, you must quickly convey a positive
vision of who you are and what you can do for the employer. The résumé must catch the reader's attention with
an attractive, powerful summary.
Résumé Sections Contact Information
• Always placed at the top of the page since electronic databases scan for this information within the first few
lines of the résumé.
• Include your name, street address, city, state, zip code, primary telephone number, and an email address.
• If you feel comfortable, you may include your business telephone number.
Education
• Any education-related information that enhances the employer's view of you.
• High school information is usually excluded unless it significantly contributes to the vision.
• May be listed before the Experience section if it is more relevant to the employer than your jobs.
Include the following information:
• Your degree (e.g. BS or Bachelor of Science), major, and minor. If you have more than one degree, list your
most recent and relevant degree first. You may spell out the degree (Bachelor of Arts) or use abbreviations
(BA) if commonly understood.
• The name of the college or university, city, state, and graduation date.
• Similar information for any past degrees.
Optional items:
• A short list of relevant classes or projects completed.
• High GPA, honors, awards, scholarships, special projects, and certifications.
Experience
• Include your most recent job title, employer, city, state, beginning and end dates of
employment (month and year), a description of job accomplishments, and outcomes.
• Quantify accomplishments using numbers, percentages, time frames, and other specific details.
• Describe your accomplishments and outcomes using bullets and action verbs.
• If you lack paid job experience, include relevant unpaid experience (internship or volunteer).
Accomplishments
Employers want to learn about your accomplishments and results in the following areas:
• Saving time or money • Improving products or services
• Solving problems • Managing a crisis
• Enhancing performance • Increasing profits or services
References
• The names, addresses, and phone numbers of references are not listed on your résumé.
- A reference page is a separate entity that follows the résumé. Your application should appear in the following
order: Cover Letter, Résumé, Reference Page
• References are usually former employers who can speak about the quality of your work. College
professors are appropriate to list if they can discuss your qualifications.
• Obtain permission from your potential references to use them as references.
• Give your references a copy of your résumé and keep them informed of employers who may contact them.
• Consider coaching your references on your strengths as they relate to specific jobs.
Reference Page Example
REFERENCES FOR: Your Name
Dr. John Smith
Dean of Academic Affairs
5200 W University Ave, Wichita, KS 67213
(316) 295-5832
Additional Headings
You can create headings to fit the skills you want to highlight. Foreign languages, computer languages, and
hardware/software are also often included in a special section. Include a heading if it is relevant in helping the employer
get the best possible impression of you and if it relates to the job.
Sample Headings
Leadership Experience Professional Associations
Honors and Awards Publications
Co-curricular Activities Volunteer/Service Work/Community Involvement
Computer Skills Foreign Languages
International Experience Presentations
Research Projects Certifications and Licenses
Suggestions for those with Extensive Professional Experience
A Summary of Qualifications section highlights your skills, relevant accomplishments, and educational background in
either a paragraph or bulleted format at the top of the résumé (below the contact information). The summary may be used
in place of, or in addition to, a career objective.
Sample of Summary of Qualification—in paragraph format:
Over six years experience teaching young children. Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. Certificate in Elementary
Education. Successfully organized early childhood programs. Bilingual in Spanish and English.
Sample of Summary of Qualifications—with bullets:
• Sixteen years’ CIS and Telecommunications consulting experience with Fortune 100 companies.
• Comprehensive expertise in frame relay fiber optics, computer networks, ATM’s and telephony.
• Master in Telecommunications and Bachelor of Science in CIS from the University of Denver.
• Six years’ experience in Project Management with cross functional teams of up to 40 people.
Special Situations
Some people have individual situations or concerns that may impact their résumés. If you are unsure of how to best
present yourself on a résumé, please schedule a meeting with a staff member in the office of Campus & Career
Transitions, 316.295.5832, to discuss your concerns.
Special situations may include:
Gaps in employment history Involvement in controversial organizations
Being downsized or laid off Termination from a job
Keys to an Effective Résumé
Customize: If you are seeking more than one type of job, you will need several résumés with different career
objectives or job targets.
Length: Unless you have extensive, relevant experience, limit yourself to one page.
Specific: Concise, detailed, results-oriented phrases get maximum interest, e.g., "Trained and managed three sales
clerks in women's clothing section, averaging highest weekly sales out of six departments." Concisely
describe your career objective, skills/qualifications, education, work history, and interests. Think of the
job or internship as an unmet need of an employer. Research the key skills for the type of position you are
applying for. Write statements that reflect these skills.
Language: When possible, use the terminology or jargon of the employer.
Quantify: Describe your duties and accomplishments with measurable data, e.g. dollars, percent, numbers, and
frequency. Use adjectives and adverbs to describe your actions and results with detailed descriptions. Be
specific about your skills and competencies; emphasize those skills most related to the position.
Design: Make the résumé inviting to read with attractive headings, a good balance of black and white space, and a
limited selection of font sizes and styles. Do not use less than 10-point font. Bullets and columns can
make it easier for employers to quickly review your résumé. You may use margins that are up to 1” but
not less than 0.5”.
Highlight: The reader's eye goes first to the top, left side of the résumé and this is where to place your most
important information. Headings and important details can be given extra emphasis by careful use of
indenting, underlining, or bolding.
Proofread: Have your résumé critiqued by several people, including a professional in your field and a staff member
in the Campus & Career Transitions Office. Grammar, spelling, or typographical errors are unacceptable.
Consistency: It is critical to provide information in a consistent format within each section of your résumé. For
example, present each of your jobs consistently with job titles, employer name, location, and dates in the
same order.
Printing: Laser quality print on 24lb weight laser-compatible paper is suggested. If you fax or scan your résumé,
always use white paper.
Emphasize your Skills
Did you:
Train an associate? If so, what were the results?
Mentor or Tutor an individual? Did this enhance their academic performance – grades improve, etc.?
Enhance efficiency – performing a task quicker, cheaper, etc.?
Increase sales figures, membership dues, reduce accounts receivable, etc.?
Initiate problem solving and critical thinking skills? How? What was the outcome?
Coordinate an event? Project?
Résumé Checklist General:
• Always include a cover letter. A well-written cover letter can only increase your chance for an interview.
• Write your résumé yourself. If you cannot effectively write about yourself, you may be ineffective in selling
yourself during an interview.
• Proofread for typographical, spelling, and grammatical errors.
• Ask a Career Counselor to critique your résumé.
• Use quality paper and a quality laser printer.
• Understand the impact of potentially controversial information such as inclusion of your religious or political
affiliations, your sexual orientation, or detailed, personal information. Is there a compelling reason for including
the information? Does it relate to the job?
• Keep your résumé focused and targeted to a specific job.
• Prioritize experience and education sections depending upon the employer's needs.
• Focus on higher level and transferable skills.
• Include specific examples of significant accomplishments and results.
Language:
• Find appropriate synonyms rather than using the same words repeatedly.
• Describe the positive results or outcomes of your actions or duties.
• Exclude abbreviations that the employer is not likely to understand.
• Speak positively about your background and skills, persuasively relating them to your job objective.
• Be consistent with verb tenses. Use past tense verbs with jobs in the past, and present tense verbs for current
positions.
• Use action verbs to start the phrases in the experience section of your résumé.
• Use key words (nouns and short phrases) when you know your résumé will be scanned into a database.
• Eliminate extraneous information.
Special Cautions for an Online Job Search
In the age of identity theft, there are steps you can take to protect yourself during an online job search.
• Select the option to post an “identity-suppressed résumé” that is available on reputable job posting sites.
• Set up a separate, anonymous email address just for your job search.
• Read the job posting site’s privacy statement and your ability to delete your résumé after you find a job. Find out
if your résumé will be shared with other job sites. Avoid using sites that do not give you information on how
your data will be used, shared, or stored.
• Be wary of employer’s requests for copies of driver’s licenses or other personal information. Call the employer
directly (find the number on your own) and verify the information they are seeking.
• Keep track of everything you post online to make it easier to delete and prove exactly what you posted and
where you posted it.
• If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!
Choosing The Résumé Format That’s Best For You
Your individual circumstances will determine what résumé format will work best for you. Résumé experts generally
recommend three styles of résumé layouts:
1) Chronological
2) Functional
3) Chrono-Functional
1) Chronological Format This format lists your employment history starting with your most recent or current employment and working backward to
your first job (or 10 years into the past—whichever comes first).
The Chronological Format is a good choice when: You want to call attention to a stable work history.
You want to highlight upward mobility, accomplishments, and promotions in your chosen career.
You are applying for a job in a very conservative company or field.
You want to find a job in the same area as your previous job(s).
The Chronological Format is a bad choice when: You are changing careers or looking for work in an area you haven’t worked before.
You are looking for your first job and lack experience related to the job for which you’re applying.
You’ve changed employers frequently in the past.
You want to emphasize skills that haven’t been used in recent work experience.
You have had significant gaps in your work history.
You have been absent from the job market for a while.
2) Functional Format This format emphasizes the applicable skills you have developed, rather than when, where, or how you acquired them.
The functional format is a good choice when: You are making a career change.
You are pursuing an entry-level position and you don’t have the applicable work history to build a chronological
résumé.
You want to emphasize the skills and capabilities relevant to the future job, rather than past job responsibilities.
You have had a variety of jobs in the past that are relatively unconnected.
The work you have done in the past has been freelance, consulting, or temporary.
You are returning to the workplace after an absence.
You are concerned that your age may be a barrier.
You haven’t shown advancement in responsibility or have had lateral moves.
You have complicated work history.
You are self-employed.
You are closer to retirement than the onset of your career.
The functional format is a bad choice when: You are applying for a job in your current field and have a solid work history.
You want to emphasize a growth pattern in the work you have done or in your education.
Your past employers are important in relation to your job objective.
Your most recent employers are highly prestigious.
You are applying for jobs in highly traditional fields such as teaching, the ministry, or law/politics where specific
employers are of great interest.
You have performed a limited number of functions in your previous work.
3) Chrono-Functional Format This format is a combination of the chronological and functional formats.
The chrono-functional format is a good choice when: You want to showcase a solid employment history and highlight skills that are applicable/transferable to the
future position.
You have a strong performance record and are on a career track that you wish to continue.
The chrono-functional format is a bad choice when: You lack a record of advancement or progression in your chosen profession.
Your work history has been unstable or there are gaps in your work history.
You have held many similar positions and listing skills for each would be redundant.
You want to draw attention to experience or skills acquired outside of your work history.
ACTION VERBS
Management/Leadership/Decision Making Skills
administered
advocated
analyzed
appointed
approved
assigned
attained
authorized
chaired
considered
consolidated
contracted
controlled
converted
coordinated
decided
delegated
determined
developed
directed
elected
eliminated
emphasized
enforced
enhanced
enlisted
established
executed
formed
founded
generated
governed
handled
headed
hired
hosted
improved
incorporated
increased
initiated
inspected
instituted
led
managed
merged
moderated
motivated
operated
organized
overhauled
oversaw
pioneered
planned
presided
prioritized
produced
recommended
recruited
reorganized
replaced
represented
restored
reviewed
scheduled
secured
selected
spearheaded
sponsored
staged
started
streamlined
strengthened
supervised
terminated
Communication/People Skills
addressed
advertised
arbitrated
arranged
articulated
authored
clarified
collaborated
communicated
composed
condensed
conferred
consulted
contacted
conveyed
convinced
corresponded
debated
defined
described
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
Analytical/Research Skills
analyzed
clarified
collected
compared
conducted
critiqued
detected
determined
diagnosed
evaluated
examined
experimented
explored
extracted
formulated
gathered
identified
inspected
interpreted
interviewed
invented
investigated
located
measured
organized
researched
reviewed
searched
solved
summarized
surveyed
systematized
tested
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
Teaching Skills
adapted
advised
clarified
coached
communicated
conducted
coordinated
critiqued
developed
enabled
encouraged
evaluated
explained
facilitated
focused
guided
individualized
informed
instilled
instructed
motivated
persuaded
set goals
simulated
stimulated
taught
tested
trained
transmitted
tutored
Financial Data Skills
administered
adjusted
allocated
analyzed
appraised
assessed
audited
balanced
budgeted
calculated
computed
conserved
corrected
determined
developed
estimated
forecasted
managed
marketed
measured
planned
prepared
programmed
projected
reconciled
reduced
researched
retrieved
Creative/Innovative Skills
acted
adapted
authored
began
combined
composed
conceived
conceptualized
condensed
created
customized
designed
developed
devised
directed
displayed
drew
entertained
established
fashioned
formulated
founded
illustrated
initiated
instituted
integrated
introduced
invented
modeled
modified
originated
performed
photographed
planned
revised
revolutionized
shaped
solved
Helping/Counseling/Mediating Skills
adapted
advocated
aided
answered
arranged
assessed
assisted
attended
cared for
clarified
coached
collaborated
comforted
contributed
cooperated
counseled
demonstrated
diagnosed
educated
encouraged
ensured
expedited
facilitated
familiarized
fostered
furthered
guided
helped
instilled
insured
intervened
mentored
motivated
prevented
provided
referred
rehabilitation
represented
resolved
settled
simplified
supported
tutored
volunteered
Organization/Administrative/Detail Skills
approved
arranged
catalogued
categorized
charted
classified
coded
collected
compiled
coordinated
corrected
corresponded
disseminated
distributed
executed
filed
formalized
generated
implemented
incorporated
inspected
logged
maintained
monitored
obtained
operated
ordered
organized
planned
prepared
processed
provided
purchased
recorded
registered
reorganized
reserved
responded
reviewed
routed
scheduled
screened
set up
submitted
supplied
standardized
systematized
updated
validated
verified
Selling/Convincing Skills
arbitrated
convinced
dissuaded
marketed
mediated
negotiated
persuaded
promoted
publicized
resolved
secured
sold
solicited
Additional Verbs for Accomplishments
achieved
completed
created
expanded
exceeded
implemented
improved
initiated
pioneered
reduced (losses)
resolved (issues)
restored
saved
spearheaded
spearheaded
succeeded
surpassed
transformed
won
MARKETABLE PERSONALITY TRAITS
Task Oriented Skills
Accurate
Adaptable
Ambitious
Analytical
Artistic talent
Awareness
Capable
Clear-thinker
Commitment to growth
Competent
Conscientious
Cooperative
Creative
Dedicated
Dependable
Eager
Efficient
Energetic
Enterprising
Eye for detail
Flexible
Gets things done right
Goal-directed
Good judgment
Hard worker
High achiever
High energy
Highly motivated
Honest
Imaginative
Independent
Industrious
Innovative
Leadership ability
Loves a challenge
Loyal
Manages time efficiently
Methodical
Meticulous
Motivated
Optimistic
Orderly
Organized
Perfectionist
Persistent
Problem solver
Productive
Punctual
Quick learner
Realistic
Resourceful
Risk taker
Self-motivated
Sense of humor
Sensitive
Serious
Shrewd
Sincere
Team player
Thorough
Trustworthy
Verbal
Versatility
Visionary
Works well under pressure
People Oriented Skills
Ability to motivate others
Congenial
Cooperative
Courteous
Diplomatic
Eloquent
Excellent communication
skills
Friendly
Generous
Gets along well with others
Good listener
Helpful
Optimistic
Outgoing
Sense of humor
Sensible
Supportive
Sympathetic
Team player
Tolerant of others
Understanding
Bernard Clairvaux
2100 W. University Ave 316.295.5832
Wichita, KS 67213 [email protected]
Education
BA: Religion & Philosophy Anticipated December 2012
Christian Spiritual Formation emphasis GPA: 3.925 Friends University, Wichita, KS
General Education Coursework 2008 – 2010
Wichita State University, Wichita, KS
Work Experience
Intern September 2010 – Present
Friends University Campus Ministries
- Develop content for programs (retreats, service trips, worship services, etc.)
- Develop and design promotional materials (posters, t-shirts, etc.)
- Perform basic office tasks such as: entering information into various programs
in the Microsoft Office Suite, answering phones, etc.
Technology Coordinator September 2010 – Present
Aprentis Institute
- Manage web presence: update website, blog, and other social media
(Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Vimeo)
- Develop, film, and edit videos
- Complete other graphic design projects as needed
City Host May 2012 – July 2012
Center for Student Missions – Houston, TX
- Led groups of students (middle school, high school, or college-aged)
on week-long service trips
- Served alongside groups and developed long-term relationships with
directors and clients at various non-profit organizations
- Maintained weekly budget and housing site
First Year Mentor August 2011 – December 2011
Friends University Office of Campus and Career Transitions
- Served as an orientation leader at New Student Orientation
- Assisted the First Year Experience Class by leading and participating in
meaningful discussions about life in college and beyond
- Mentored several freshmen students in their first semester at college
Bernard Clairaux, pg. 2
Work Experience, Continued
Student Assistant August 2008 – August 2010
Wichita State University Foundation
- Directly reported to President and CEO, Executive Assistant, & Director of Special Events
- Aided in development of donor appreciation events and scholarship luncheons
- Responsible for set up, maintenance, and tear down of events
- Performed basic office tasks such as: entering information into various programs
in the Microsoft Office Suite, answering phones, etc.
Volunteer Opportunities Tutor August 2011 – Present
Colvin Elementary – Wichita, KS
- Assist in 3rd grade classrooms at a low-income elementary school
- Help students with reading, mathematics, and other subjects in which they needed assistance
- Assist teachers with other projects as needed (lamination, cutting, etc.)
Small Group Leader/Program Director May 2008 - October 2010 ClayHouse High School Ministry – NewSpring Church – Wichita, KS
- Oversaw all technical aspects of weeknight programming
- Attended all creative meetings
- Met weekly with students for personal and spiritual development
Campus Traditions Committee Chair August 2008 - May 2010
Student Activities Council - Wichita State University
- Responsible for planning and executing two separate week-long spirit events within a set budget
- Planned agenda and executed one committee and two sub-committee meetings weekly
- Served as a member of the organization’s Executive Board
Honors & Involvement
- President’s Honor Roll
- Member of Alpha Chi College Honor Society – Kansas Epsilon Chapter
- Member of Friends University Singing Quakers
- Top 25: Wichita State University Gore Scholar 2008
Teresa Avila 2100 W University Ave
Wichita, KS 67213
316-295-5832
Six years of ministry experience serving in a variety of areas including: Local Church Staff, Conference Speaker, and
Camp Staff. Committed to a lifetime of service to youth ministry. Qualifications
Passionate about journeying with students as they seek to follow Jesus and be spiritually formed into His likeness in all areas of life.
Invested in a holistic approach to ministry which values the health of the whole person—spiritual, emotional, and physical.
Committed to connecting students to the greater congregation, allowing for formative intergenerational relationships within the local church body.
Dedicated to teaching students what it means to be in relationship with Jesus through scripture, service, and spiritual disciplines.
Education
Master of Divinity, Youth, Student, and Family concentration Anticipated May 2014 George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Waco, TX
Bachelor of Arts in Religion & Philosophy, Youth Ministry emphasis May 2010 Friends University, Wichita, KS
Vocational Ministry Experience
Youth Ministry Intern (full time) January 2010- August 2010 First Baptist Church, Augusta, KS
Plan and organize events for 100+ students active in the church youth group, such as summer camp,
leadership retreats, and a two week musical mission trip and spring break mission trip. Mentor and counsel middle school and high school students in a relational ministry which prioritizes
spiritual formation. Organize and teach lessons and small groups on a weekly basis, including a young women’s community
group. Build Christian community through relationships with students, parents, and the congregational body.
Christian Spiritual Formation Institute, Student Associate August 2009 – May 2010 Friends University, Wichita, KS
Assist the Director and Assistant Director of The Christian Spiritual Formation Institute with various tasks,
including casting vision for the future Institute and organizing databases of local churches involved with the Institute.
Recruit perspective student to the upcoming “spiritual formation” degree. Write blog posts on various spiritual formation books and spiritual disciplines.
Teresa Avila, pg. 2
Vocational Ministry Experience, Continued
Youth Ministry Intern (part time) August 2007 – August 2008 Trinity Presbyterian Church, Wichita, KS
Schedule weekly activities such as games and late night fun activities for approx. 25 students who attend youth group weekly.
Create lesson plans and teach students on Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. Mentor and counsel young women on a weekly basis. Plan and implement a creative, fun, and Christ-centered summer mission trip.
Quest Staff (full time) May 2007 – August 2007 Green Lake Conference Center, Green Lake, WI
Work as a team with six other full time staffers throughout the summer, serving youth ministers and their students.
Train and prepare weekly sessions, activities, and curriculum for students from around the Midwest who come to camp for one week at a time throughout the entire summer.
Teach and lead one small group and two seminar group sessions daily as well as lead worship twice daily. Create and lead games and activities for the students on a daily basis. Build and foster relationships with the youth, other staff members, and pastors.
Non-Ministerial Experience Proprietor August 2011-Present Local House Cleaning Business, Waco, TX
Started a local business, creating a sizeable array of clientele in the Waco area. Organize a schedule of a maximum of sixteen clients on a weekly and bi-weekly basis. Advertise and manage a profile for future prospective clientele.
Student Ambassador August 2007-May 2010 Friends University, Wichita, KS
Plan and organize welcome and enrollment events for prospective students. Build relationships with prospective students, assist in recruiting students to attend Friends University,
and give campus tours to students and parents. Perform various tasks for the Campus Visit Coordinator and Admissions Staff, such as answering phones,
making calls to prospective students, and setting up and tearing down for events.
Other Ministry Related Activities
George W. Truett Theological Seminary Perspectives Conference: planning team and speaker (2011, 2012) Harris Creek Baptist Church: life group leader (2011-present) Mainstreet Baptist Church Disciple Now: small group leader (2012) Saturate Sr. High Conference: speaker (2011) Germany Mission Trip: discipleship retreat coordinator (2011) Saturate Sr. High Conference: writer for small group curriculum each year (2007-2010) Saturate Sr. High and Middle School Conference: camp staffer (2007-2010)
Catherine O. Genoa 2100 W University Ave
Wichita, KS 67213
316-295-5832
Education Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Philosophy December 2012
and Christian Spiritual Formation Friends University, Wichita, KS
Vocational Ministry Experience
Children’s Ministry Staff Member September 2012- Present
United Methodist Church At The Well, Wichita, KS
Teach Pre-k class during Saturday night church service
Communicate with and inform parents on how to help facilitate their child’s spiritual growth at home
Strive to cultivate children’s awareness of God acting in their lives.
Plan lessons for 6-11yr olds
Edit video and organize leader packets for other staff members and volunteers
Build and foster relationships with the children, parents, congregation members, and pastors
Student Worker (part time) Summer 2009, 2010, 2011
Friends University Campus Ministries, Wichita, KS
Work with a team of campus pastors and students to create curriculum for Saturate Sr. High Conference
Created interactive videos to use as part of the curriculum
Led a team of students to complete the curriculum in a timely manner
Youth Ministry Intern (part time) August 2010 -December 2010
Faith Community Church, Wichita, KS
Attended staff meetings to help plan church events
Brainstormed ways to reformat the way the church approaches youth ministry
Youth Ministry Intern (full time) August 2007- August 2008
First Baptist Church, Augusta, KS
Plan and organize events for 100+ students active in the church youth group, such as summer camp, leadership
retreats, and a two week musical mission trip and spring break mission trip
Mentor and counsel middle school and high school students in a relational ministry which prioritizes spiritual
formation
Organize and teach lessons and small groups on a weekly basis including a young women’s community group
Build Christian community through relationships with students, parents, and the congregational body
Leadership Experience
Group Leader and Driver March 2013
Friends University Campus Ministries, Wichita, KS
Drive a van of college students to different sites around Houston as part of the Center for Student Missions
(CSM) experience
Lead debrief time every evening to help students process the events of the day
Work with CSM city host to navigate our way around the city of Houston
Catherine O. Genoa, pg. 2 2100 W University Ave
Wichita, KS 67213
316-295-5832
Leadership Experience, Continued
Casado Advisory Team Member May 2011-December 2012
Friends University Student Affairs, Wichita, KS
Meet with Director of Casado Campus Center and other student leaders on a biweekly basis
Create an event calendar for the 2012-2013 school year
Meet with student workers and assist them with any needs
Work with other team members to develop a point system to encourage student workers to be involved in campus
events.
Leadership Team Member August 2010-December 2012
Friends University Campus Ministries, Wichita, KS
Attend a Leadership training week in Colorado Springs, CO
Set up and attend weekly Cornerstone services and assist campus pastors with any needs
Build community through relationships with students on campus and encourage them in their walk with Jesus
Meet on a weekly basis with campus pastors
Musical Mission Trip Adult Sponsor and Group Leader Summer 2008, 2009, 2011
First Baptist Church, Augusta, KS
Attend mission trip practice and assist students with choreography and script lines
Create, plan, and lead girls group twice during the two week musical trip
Lead a group of girls every night in a debrief of “Highs and Lows” of the day and talk about how they are doing
emotionally, physically, and spiritually
Be there to build relationships and support students throughout the two week trip
Camp Staff Summer 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Saturate Jr. and Sr. High Conference, Wichita, KS
Lead a group of college students to write five sessions of small group curriculum for the camp
Plan and facilitate “Big Group” games for each evening of camp
Emcee meal-time games and find students to volunteer to pray for meals and participate in activities
Teach afternoon activities such as crafts, dance, and drama
Thomas A. Kempis 2100 W. University Ave., Wichita, KS, 67213
Phone: (316-295-5832)Email: [email protected]
Education
B.A in Political Science History May 2013
B.A in Christian Spiritual Formation GPA: 4.0 / 4.0
Friends University, Wichita, KS
Member Alpha Chi, 4.0 GPA
Deans Honor Roll all seven semesters at Friends University
Experience
Teach For America (Corps Member) Anticipated Summer 2013
Memphis, Tennessee
Trained to teach grades 6-12 in Mathematics as well as prepared to teach K-5: Any subject
Selected from approximately 40,000 applicants nationwide to join national teacher corps comprised of leaders who commit a
minimum of two years to teach in public schools.
Will participate in an intensive training program to develop the skills and knowledge needed to achieve significant gains in
student achievement.
Will teach in a summer school program run by Teach For America for students in Memphis public schools under the
supervision of a faculty of experienced teachers.
Will engage in a comprehensive program of professional development including seminars, discussion groups, workshops,
and content and professional learning communities specific to teaching license areas.
Student Ambassador January 2010-Present
Friends University, Wichita KS
Developed a comfort in speaking with numerous people from different backgrounds
Educated prospective students about what Friends University could offer them as students
Helped organize large event days for prospective students
Intern for Campus Ministries January 2010-Present
Friends University, Wichita KS
Innovate new ways to create events that allow a diverse campus to have places of connection
Facilitate discussion in groups made up of students who had varying beliefs
Organize service activities for students to participate in, such as tutoring at Colvin Elementary, a low income elementary
school nearby, and serving at ICT SOS, an organization that combats human trafficking
Center For Student Missions May 2012-August 2012
Oakland, CA
Engaged a wide array of people from different cultures and different demographics
Led 13 to 21 year old students around the Bay Area, teaching them about the complexity of poverty
Served in summer programs that worked with children that went to the surrounding schools
Became knowledgeable about the various problems within the school system of Oakland and the surrounding Bay Area
Thomas A. Kempis, pg. 2
Experience, Continued
Resident Assistant August 2010-May 2012
Friends University, Wichita, KS
Responsible for 35 residents
Spent 10 hours a week finding ways to create community on a diverse campus
Developed the ability to communicate what needed to be done in ways that all the residents could understand
Campus Involvement
Friends University Singing Quakers August 2009-Present
Friends University, Wichita, KS
Five days a week rehearse music for an hour and a half
Gained confidence by performing in front of an audience
Developed the skill set of scheduling
Friends University Madrigals August 2009-August 2012
Friends University, Wichita, KS
Honor choir participant within the larger choir
President of the History and Political Science Club August 2011-August 2012
Friends University, Wichita, KS
Organized social events, such as interest sessions for student interested in joining the Political Science and History club
Responsible for organizing documentary nights, inviting speakers to come to campus and raising funds for the Model United
Nations team to go to St. Louis
Community Service
Tutoring at Colvin Elementary
Colvin Elementary School, Wichita, KS
For two hours a week I go to Colvin elementary and help the third graders with whatever subject they are learning that day.
Has increased my passion for teaching
Volunteer Barista at Norms Coffee Bar
Norms Coffee Bar, Wichita, KS
Once a week for three hours volunteer by making drinks for customers
Cover Letter Guidelines
Be Sure to Tailor Each Cover Letter to the Organization You Are Sending it to-
THIS IS THE NUMBER ONE RULE.
Sample Outline:
Repeat header from your Résumé
(double space)
Date (Dateline)
(double space)
Mr. /Ms. Name, Title (Inside address)
Company
Address
City, State, Zip
(double space)
Dear Mr. /Ms. Last Name:
(double space)
Introductory Paragraph:
This is the attention grabber that should arouse the reader’s interest. If you are applying for a specific job, mention the
position title and position number (if applicable). Give the person’s name if someone referred you to the company. This
paragraph may include your knowledge of the organization, why you want to work for them, and some brief background
experience/education that relates to the position. Most introductory paragraphs are short, so be brief and clear.
(double space)
Middle Paragraph:
This is the sales pitch. It is the longest of your paragraphs (may be split into two paragraphs) where you attempt to
persuade the employer that you are worth an interview. Present specific abilities, education, and/or experience that make
you an attractive candidate for the position. Highlight special skills. Reveal a personal goal that could be realized with this
firm. Prove that your skills and abilities match the job description and can satisfy the employer’s needs.
(double space)
Final Paragraph:
This is the request for action. Ask for an interview or a meeting to discuss how your skills might assist the employer.
Offer to provide more information (e.g. samples of your work, references, more details of your past experience or
education, etc.). In most cases take the lead and indicate that you will be calling to arrange an appointment or if the
employer specifically indicated not to call, you may ask them to call you. Provide your telephone number and the best
times to be contacted.
(double space)
Sincerely, (complimentary close)
(four spaces)
*Signature here (for print versions)
Your name (signature block)
*For email use either an electronic (scanned) signature or a basic script font.
Other Rules to Remember
In referencing a personal referral, state that the referral suggested you write or email the contact.
Utilize impressive quotes from letters of reference in your cover letter, e.g. “I am highly organized; my internship
supervisor stated in her letter of reference, ‘Alex is the most organized intern I have ever had.’”
Use brief personal examples to back up what you say about yourself, e.g. “Several instructors have consistently
commented on my excellent writing skills”.
Talk about and quantify your accomplishments that relate to the position.
Be brief and concise, no more than one page.
Proof-read and have others proof-read your letter for errors, the Campus & Career Transitions staff will help
review your cover letter.
Do not overuse “I” to begin sentences, vary the sentence structure.
Single space within each paragraph, double space between paragraphs
Always sign your cover letter except for email versions.
Matching the paper and heading of your cover letter to the heading of your résumé, (for hard copies), is a nice
professional touch.
If you lack a skill or some required experience, discuss how you can pick up the skill quickly, or how other
experience will substitute.
It is common to have the cover letter be the text of an email, with the résumé attached.
Use the same font size and style in the cover letter that you used in your résumé.
Mistakes to Avoid
Never misrepresent your background, skills, and experiences.
Never sound desperate or negative.
Never confess shortcomings; give a positive slant to your background and experience.
Don’t repeat your résumé, but summarize and enhance; add your best personality traits and word pictures that
aren’t on the résumé.
Always send an email version of your cover letter and résumé to yourself first to make sure it opens up perfectly.
It is also recommended to save your materials as a “.pdf” prior to e-mailing your application.
Always read and follow any employer instructions for submitting a cover letter and résumé.
(No advertised position, a letter of inquiry)
Catherine O. Genoa 2100 W University Ave
Wichita, KS 67213
316-295-5832
April 8, 20xx
Ms. Molly B. Ouray
Senior Vice President
MBI & Associates
1200 Maize Rd.
Wichita, KS 67209
Dear Ms. Ouray:
I was fortunate enough to see your recent quote in the Wichita Eagle where you described MBI & Associates’ new
Management Development Program as one that “hires liberal arts majors who have outstanding academic achievement
tied with strong leadership and people skills.” I fit that description and will be graduating this spring from Friends
University. I am researching innovative companies like MBI & Associates where my skills and abilities can make a
significant contribution.
Some of my qualifications include:
• Considerable management and leadership experience, most notably as President of the student body, which included
leading seven other executive committee members and representing the students to the administration.
• Student leader, served as a Senator for two years within the Student Government Association’s student senate.
• Strong organizational and academic skills, having maintained a 3.53 GPA while working 25 hours a week to finance
60% of my education.
• Going beyond, as communicated from my internship supervisor in one of my letters of reference, “Katy has done far
more in her internship than was required.”
• Excellent communication and analytical skills developed through my Religion and Philosophy major, two years
customer service experience, and training six co-workers.
I will be in Durango the week of May 5-10 and would enjoy meeting with you to discuss how I might be an excellent
candidate for your program. My immediate goal of entering a management training program with an energetic and
growing company matches your goal of hiring students with “high-quality academic and leadership experience.” I will
call early next week to follow up on the possibility of our meeting to discuss future opportunities with MBI & Associates.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Catherine O. Genoa
(Youth pastor position)
Teresa Avila 2100 W University Ave
Wichita, KS 67213
316-295-5832
June 13, 20xx
Mr. Alexander Xaiver
Human Resources Director
5200 W University Ave
Wichita, KS 67213
Dear Mr. Xaiver,
I was very excited to learn about the youth minister position available within your organization and hope to be seriously
considered as a candidate. This would be an excellent opportunity to pursue my spiritual calling. It’s a chance to make a
positive influence in the lives of young people, who’ll one day shape the future of our world.
I attended Friends University where I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Religion and Philosophy with an emphasis in
Christian Spiritual Formation. Over the past three years I’ve volunteered my time as a small group youth leader at various
high school ministries and churches. During this time, I’ve learned how to successfully work with and maintain a good
relationship with students of all ages by discovering unique and effective ways to get through to them.
I’m confident that I have the skills and training needed to help the youth of today learn how to build a strong spiritual
relationship with the Lord. My skills and special abilities include planning and executing youth ministry experiences that
will motivate young people to follow their calling.
I believe I have the skills and desire needed to fulfill the obligations associated with the youth minister position within
your organization. I hope to hear from you soon so please call (316) 295-5832 to set up a meeting in which to personally
discuss this position in more detail.
Sincerely,
Teresa Avila
(Student Minister Position)
Bernard Clairvaux
2100 W. University Ave 316.295.5832
Wichita, KS 67213 [email protected]
June 13, 20xx
Mr. John Hahn
Senior Co-Coordinator
5200 W University Ave
Wichita, KS 67213
Dear Mr. Hahn:
I am writing in reference to the Minister to Students position announcement that was posted in the Wichita Baptist
newspaper. As I read the position description I was struck by the exciting and challenging nature of this ministry
opportunity. I am enclosing a copy of my résumé for your consideration as a candidate for the position.
Since my sophomore year of college I have felt God’s clear calling to minister to youth. Through volunteer ministry,
two years of service as a student ministry intern, and the past three years of serving as Minister to Youth at Providence
Baptist Church, my calling has been confirmed and strengthened. I have a passion to share with young people the
Good News of God’s love for them, and to help nurture their spiritual development. The year of service I spent as a
Campus Ministry intern also awakened within me a desire to minister to the spiritual needs of college students.
I hope the enclosed résumé will be helpful in providing you with information you need to evaluate my qualifications as
a candidate. If you should need any additional information, I will be very glad to provide it. I would be delighted to speak
with you in person about this position if you feel so led. Feel free to contact me at the phone number or addresses
listed above. I appreciate your time and consideration. Please know of my prayers for your committee and your church as you seek the Lord’s person to serve as your next Minister to Students.
Sincerely,
Bernard Clairaux
(Business position – ministry background)
Thomas A. Kempis
2100 W. University Ave., Wichita, KS, 67213
Phone: (316-295-5832)Email: [email protected]
May 9, 20xx
Ms. Beth Smithson
Human Resources Director
Nottingham Associates
567 S. Logan Ave., Suite 14
Wichita, KS 67215
Dear Ms. Smithson:
I am interested in the supervisor position advertised in the Friends University Career Services job database. I am currently
employed as a Student Mentor in the Campus Ministries department. I accepted this position because of the emphasis on
writing competency, communicating skills, and most importantly mentoring capabilities. My experience within this role
has afforded me the opportunity to become familiar with an array of effective management styles when assisting others to
overcome life problems.
In response to your search for a supervisor, I believe my experience in the role of a mentor, as well as my training in
effective communication strategies qualifies me for consideration. Promoting a pleasant and conflict free environment is
an atmosphere in which I seek, my experience as a mentor has encouraged participation in individual and family clients’
circumstances, exposing me to a variety of arising and current conflicts. This experience has aptly prepared me to assist in
future matters, a learned ability in which I feel will greatly compliment the current culture of your organization—a
conflict free environment that prides itself on customer satisfaction.
To further acquaint you with the specifics of my background I am enclosing my resume. I hope you will consider me for
this position. I look forward to meeting with you and discussing my qualifications in more detail.
Sincerely,
Thomas A. Kempis