UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING
CAREER GUIDE
Providing University of Wyoming students and alumni the tools to take ownership of their futures.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Job Searching Career Competencies............................................................................................................................1 How to Find a Job..................................................................................................................................2 Networking & Professional Communications...............................................................................4 LinkedIn Checklist...........................................................................................................................................6 Resume Writing Resume Components............................................................................................................................7 Resume Checklist....................................................................................................................................8 Sample Resumes...................................................................................................................9, 11, 13, 14 Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)..................................................................................................10 Transferable Skills...................................................................................................................................12 References.................................................................................................................................................15 Additional Application Materials.......................................................................................................18 International Resume Example..........................................................................................................19 Key Words – Competencies and Skills...................................................................................................20 Cover Letters Cover Letter Basics & Components.................................................................................................22 Decoding the Job Description...........................................................................................................24 Sample Cover Letter..............................................................................................................................25 Career Events Career Fairs...............................................................................................................................................26 Career Event Checklist..........................................................................................................................27 Interview Skills Dress for Success....................................................................................................................................28 Ace the Interview....................................................................................................................................29 Behavioral Interviews............................................................................................................................30 Sample Questions...................................................................................................................................31 Common Tough Questions..................................................................................................................32 Virtual Interviewing................................................................................................................................33 Dining Etiquette......................................................................................................................................34 Know your Rights...................................................................................................................................35 After the Interview.................................................................................................................................36 Thank You Letters...................................................................................................................................37 Salary Negotiation..................................................................................................................................38 Internships..........................................................................................................................................................39 AI for Profesional Growth............................................................................................................................40 Career Goals & To-do List............................................................................................................................41
Access quick links and resources with our curated Career Services LinkTree! Consider it your personal assistant as your read through this guide.
COMPETENCIES FOR A CAREER-READY WORKFORCE Career Readiness Competencies The skills, behaviors, and attributes that employers seek in new employees. In order for students to land that first job after college, it’s important they know what employers value and be able to identify and articulate those qualities they have developed.
TECHNOLOGY Understand and leverage technologies ethically to enhance efficiencies, complete tasks, and accomplish goals.
CRITICAL THINKING Identify and respond to needs based upon an understanding of situational context and logical analysis of relevant information.
TEAMWORK
LEADERSHIP
Build and maintain collaborative relationships to work effectively toward common goals, while appreciating diverse viewpoints and shared responsibilities.
Recognize and capitalize on personal and team strengths to achieve organizational goals.
PROFESSIONALISM
COMPETENCIES
Knowing work environments differ greatly, understand and demonstrate effective work habits, and act in the interest of the larger community.
COMMUNICATION Clearly and effectively exchange information, ideas, facts, and perspectives with persons inside and outside of organizations.
EQUITY AND INCLUSION Demonstrate the awareness, attitude, knowledge and skills required to equitably engage and include people from different local and global cultures. Engage in anti-racist practices that actively challenge the systems, structures, and policies of racism.
CAREER AND SELF-DEVELOPMENT Proactively develop oneself and one’s career through continual personal and professional learning, awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses, navigation of career opportunities, and networking to build relationships within and without one’s organization.
naceweb.org/career-readiness-competencies 1
HOW TO FIND A JOB Job searching is time-consuming and can be overwhelming. Sometimes it can be difficult to get started when the possibilities are so numerous. Be enthusiastic, self-confident, and persevering. You’ve got this! 1. Strategize: Break it into small, achievable goals. Dedicate a couple of hours a week to your job search and identify your timetable. This keeps you on track and working towards your goal. Be realistic about the amount of time you are willing to commit to finding a job. 2. Narrow down your possibilities by answering the following questions honestly & identify potential opportunities by researching interesting employers.
WHO? Who do you want to work for? Who do you know in the field? Who are the other people you need to consider in your decisions? WHAT? What size of employer appeals to you? What type of employer would you enjoy? What type of job? In what capacity do you want to work? If you don't know where to start, begin with who you WON'T work for. WHY? Why would you take the job — future career goals, compatible work environment, opportunity for advancement, or more responsibility? WHERE? Where do you want to live? Where do you want to start? Where do you want to go? Where DON’T you want to live? HOW? How will you start to look for a job? How will you identify potential employers? How will you evaluate opportunities and offers?
3. Prepare application materials. Write your resume and a sample cover letter. *Remember you will have to adjust them to each job application. 4. Network! Connect! Engage! Let people know you are starting the job search process. Ask them to keep a lookout for potential opportunities or contacts. Connect with companies and other professionals. Look on company websites for job postings, connect with professionals on LinkedIn or Indeed, ask for an “Informational Interview” and dedicate time looking for job openings. 5. Apply & follow up. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job description. Keep track of your applications and don’t be shy about following up with the company. *Remember to send a thank you note or email after the Interview. Refer to page 37.
UW Career Services is here to help at any stage of your career journey, including job searching resources!
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JOB SEARCH RESOURCES Handshake is an online tool dedicated to connecting students and alumni with job and internship opportunities. wyoming.joinhandshake.com
The State of Wyoming offers a multitude of career opportunities across more than 50 different agencies in locations throughout the state. ai.wyo.gov/for-job-seekers Job seekers in Wyoming visit Hire WYO to find regional jobs, and on demand services. Create a Resume, Practice Interviewing, Veteran’s Service, and more. hire.wyo.gov Non-profit jobs. Connecting people who want to do good with job opportunities for action and collaboration. idealist.org
Resources to help the right people find the right federal employment across the United States and around the world. usajobs.gov The Job Accommodation Network is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations for workers with disabilities and employers. askjan.org A valuable database resource for finding internships and jobs in a chosen geographical location. A helpful starting point when looking for employers by major. buzzfile.com The most advanced company information database. Find out who employs your major! indeed.com
A professional network. Use it to present your experience, find the right job or internship, connect and strenghten professional relationships, and learn skills. linkedin.com
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NETWORKING 70%-80% of getting a job is connecting with people.
What is Networking? Simply put, it is developing and maintaining professional relationships.
You’ve already done it! • Talking to your classmates or professors • Attending a student meeting or organization • Asking a professional in your field for advice about how to get your foot in the door
Elevator Pitch Prepare a few sentences to pitch yourself to people you meet. Learn more about creating an elevator pitch in SOAR! Connect and Engage Get involved in activities that interest you, form lasting and mutual relationships, offer assistance and support to others. Be Enthusiastic and Positive in Communications Take the initiative. Present yourself well. First impressions can last a long time, and you never know where your classmates will be working in two years. Ask questions and LISTEN actively Be bold and start a conversation. Ask open-ended questions to collect information. Informational Interviewing Reach out to an employer to schedule an “Informational Interview” where you can ask for advice and insight from a professional. Explain that you are a student looking for recommendations and exploring career options. People are more open when they know you appreciate their expertise. Be prepared to ask questions to get the conversation rolling. DON’T ask if they have any job openings. You are gathering information, not applying. Learn more about informational interviewing in SOAR. Talk with Professors They have interacted with thousands of students who are now in professions. Where did some of them end up? Ask your professor about their experience and journey. Attend Events Search for workshops and events hosted by your college. Introduce yourself to the guest speaker. Attend conferences/ symposiums in your field. Follow Up and Say Thank You! - You’ve made a contact; be sure to maintain it. Get their business card. Ask if they mind staying in touch with you. Smart job seekers maintain contacts with people in their field at all times, not just when they are looking for a letter of recommendation, internship, or job. Don’t take people for granted. Let them know you appreciate their time, help, and expertise. ALWAYS send a thank you.
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PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATIONS YOU ONLY GET ONE CHANCE TO MAKE A FIRST IMPRESSION. Communication is a crucial skill to refine for your professional success. Tips for effective professional communication: –
State who you are, how you found them, and what you are asking for.
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Be concise, clear, and mindful of your tone.
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Use a polite greeting “Hello” and closing “Thank you for your time”.
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Who are you addressing: Spell their name correctly, use their title “Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor”
Email Example: (Requesting an informational interview) Dear Ms. Smith, As a junior majoring in psychology at the University of Wyoming, I am interested in a career path in human resources. I received your information from the UW Career Services, and I’m hoping to speak with you regarding your background and career path, as well as any advice you have for someone in my position. Would you be able to set aside time for a brief informational meeting or call? I look forward to hearing back from you soon. Joe Cowboy
Present yourself professionally in: •
Emails
Linkedin Connection Request
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Indeed or LinkedIn connections
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Meeting notes
Mr. Jones,
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Presentations
It was a pleasure meeting you at the ASME’s Careers in
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Career fairs & events
Mechanical Engineering Panel yesterday and I appreciate your
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Thank you notes
willingness to connect on LinkedIn. Could I ask for your insight with internships? Regards,
Career Fair Networking “Hello, my name is _______ and I’m a sophomore studying geography. I know that your company specializes in geospatial technology and was wondering if you can tell me more about summer internship opportunities?” OR “I’m graduating this spring with a geography degree and would like to learn more about positions with your company. “
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LINKEDIN CHECKLIST What is it? A professional networking site dedicated to helping you create and maintain a professional online profile while expanding your networking. It is a powerful resource for marketing yourself, networking, and identifying internship and job opportunities. Make your profile stand out from your competition. Keep it Professional!
Upload a professional profile picture Customize your public profile URL Make your headline stand out (Include the industry and location you are interested in.)
Create a summary (Introduce yourself, mission, motivation, and top skills. Be concise.)
List your work experience (Provide a description of what you have accomplished, listing your skills, and the value you bring.)
List your education (All education experience except high school.)
Add relevant skills and highlight your “Top Skills” Consider adding additional sections as you grow in your education and professional life
(Projects, organizations, certifications or licenses, volunteer experience, honors & awards.)
Have at least 40 first level connections (Request connections from classmates, instructors, advisors, alumni, employers.)
Request recommendations from coworkers, employers, and organization leaders Join 3 groups relevant to your career field & educational association www.linkedin.com/showcase/uwyoalumni
Exclude personal details like your marital status, birthday, or personal contact information. Keep it professional!
Complete SOAR Career & Self-Development milestone to learn more about LinkedIn Profiles.
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RESUME COMPONENTS FIRST NAME LAST NAME City, State, ZIP Code • Phone • Personal email (not UW email) • LinkedIn URL
OBJECTIVE OR SUMMARY Only add if resume is not accompanied with cover letter, like at a job fair. A branding statement is another option. Example: Dedicated statistics student seeking a Marketing Analyst internship for the Summer of 2025 EDUCATION (Required) List all higher education degrees, and minors. Double majors should list the one degree with two areas of focus. Example: Bachelors of Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, Expected Graduation Date, Emphasis, Minor, GPA (If above 3.0 or if requested) RELEVANT COURSEWORK (Optional) List any important courses by name. If it relates list research or special projects. SKILLS (Optional) Only present skills, abilities, or accomplishments that are relevant to your reader. Example: Technical Skills: Adobe Photoshop and InDesign Languages: Spanish - Full professional proficiency EXPERIENCE (Required) List your Position, Company, Location (City & State) Start date - finished date Reflect skills, strengths, accomplishments, or achievements. Back up with evidence. Present most relevant information first. Experience can include volunteer, study abroad, and co-curricular activities as well as paid jobs. Quantify details to add magnitude: “Which resulted in an increase of 30 new members,” or “Planned training program for 35 participants.” Example: Salesperson/Management Intern, Company, Laramie, WY | Summers years • Earned 2024 top sales associate award for customer service
• Researched market trends and presented findings to top management
HONORS & AWARDS (Optional) List scholarships, Dean’s & President’s list, honors, and awards. Example: Dean’s list | dates ACTIVITIES, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, CERTIFICATIONS, AND LICENSES (Optional) List professional groups & organizations, club memberships, interests, volunteer work, hobbies(if relevant), etc., to show diversity or another skill area related to your career goal. Include any positions held, special projects, or leadership posts held while a member. This area may also include travel experience. Try to avoid controversial topics. Example: President, Student Organization, University of Wyoming, Location, Dates
• Organized annual fund raising event, raising $10,000
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RESUME CHECKLIST Resumes are focused professional and academic summaries that highlight your relevant skills and qualifications. Resumes are subjective; there is no perfect format and different styles appeal to different types of employers. One Page
(unless specified differently or you have extensive, relevant experience)
Prominent Name & Accurate Contact Info Reverse Chronological Order (most recent first)
Utilize Bullet Point Statements
(start with a strong action verb to highlight skills, abilities, competencies, and achievements)
Many employers spend 7-10 seconds reviewing your resume. Make your best qualities easy to find.
Error Free & Easy to Read
(clear font choices, correct spelling, free from grammar mistakes; all could instantly disqualify you)
Clear & Organized Content
(professional summary, education, experience, organizations, volunteer, certifications & licenses) NO Pictures/Graphics for US resumes.
Consistent Style, Spacing, Format
(all can be adjusted to save space, but be consistent)
SAVE YOUR DOCUMENT WITH YOUR NAME AND SEND AS A PDF SO IT WILL NOT CHANGE THE LAYOUT.
Steer Clear of: •
Personal Information. Don’t include photos, marital status, age, weight, religion, etc., to avoid
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Templates. They don’t often pass ATS screening. NO pictures, shaded boxes, icons.
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Jargon, Acronyms, or Abbreviations. The person reviewing may be unfamiliar with some terms.
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NO “References available upon request.” Have a separate document of references.
potential discrimination issues. Keep it professional. (see pg. 10)
Refer to the job description to match words.
Do you have questions or concerns? Make an appointment with Career Services!
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Basic Sample Resume
William (Bill) Wyoming OBJECTIVE
(307) 555-5555 | Cowboy@hotmail.com |City, State
Seeking summer employment or internship, utilizing communication and graphic arts background to develop multimedia presentations. Willing to relocate for the summer.
EDUCATION
B.S. in Communication, Graphic Arts minor Expected Graduation May 2027 University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY Relevant Coursework: Advertising, Graphic Design, Public Speaking
SKILLS
• Social media content management (Tik-Tok, Instagram, Snapchat) • Adobe Illustrator, MS Publisher, InDesign, Photoshop • Access, Word, Excel, PowerPoint • Spanish -Conversational
WORK EXPERIENCE
Sales: FedEx Kinko’s, Laramie, WY • Attended front counter and production printing two and four-color overlays • Facilitated customers with shipping, printing, and special orders • 16-20 hours per week while being a full-time college student
Aug.2025-Present
Student Ambassador: Admissions, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY Summer 2024 • Assisted parents and incoming UW students with information and guided tours • Used verbal communication skills and training to lead tours and present information about departments and programs
Graphic Designer Internship: WOW Inc., Burbank, CA • Designed work including multimedia, production, and four-color printing • Collaborated with marketing teams and received feedback from senior designers
Summer 2023
ASUW Senator, Arts & Sciences Student Activities, Chair Council of Printmakers Student Organization, Member Green Dot Bystander Intervention | Completed Student Training
2024-2025 2023-2024 2024 Feb 2023
HONORS & EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
PORTFOLIO
www.JCowboyPortfolio.com
Your name should be the largest font on the page.
Don’t list your high school education. List the degree you are currently working on. Do you have a concentration or minor? Stating an “Expected Graduation Date” gives the employer a clear view of your education timeline.
Highlight skills that pertain to the specific job or field of work. Listing skills and technology from the job description is important when tailoring your resume. Location is a part of the experience. Make sure you list city and state. If your experience was overseas make sure to list the country. Working in Paris, TX will be much different than Paris, France. Starting your bullet points with action or skill verbs helps the employer see what you have accomplished in prior experience. REFER to pages 20 & 21 for more examples.
If you have “Seasonal” experience you can list it by the season, dates, or (seasonal). Be consistent with what you choose. Section Headings will vary due to what the reader needs to know or the kind of job you are applying for. Portfolios or websites can be listed in a separate section or alongside your contact information at the top.
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APPLICANT TRACKING SYSTEMS (ATS) Formatting for ATS compatibility: 1. Tailor your resume to each job description. 2. Include a few, clearly defined sections. (make it easy for ATS to find and categorize the information)
3. Incorporate relevant, targeted keywords and phrases from the job description and common to the type of position you are applying for. (Terminology & vocabulary particular to the profession)
What is ATS? Many companies use applicant tracking systems to streamline the hiring process. ATS scans application materials for information relevant to the position and then assigns each candidate a ranking compared to other applicants. The higher the resume ranking, the more likely the application will end up being reviewed by a human reader.
4. No images or graphics. Inclusion of any colorful graphics may be enough to “choke” some applicant tracking systems. Instead, include your LinkedIn profile address or website link. 5. Date formats: MM/YYYY or “Month Year”.
6. ATS approved fonts: Arial, Calibri, Cambria, Georgia, Times New Roman, Garamond, Verdana, Palatino, Helvetica, Tahoma
A step ahead of ATS
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Submitting multiple resumes to the same company. Applicant tracking systems keep previous submissions. You can apply to multiple, related positions, but make sure the resume information is consistent, because the hiring manager will have access to the other versions.
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Be honest. Don’t attempt to “trick” the applicant tracking system into selecting you with info that doesn’t apply to you. (Remember, the resume will eventually be reviewed by a human.)
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File type. Microsoft Word (.doc and .docx) & PDF are recommended for files.
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Check your email after applying online. Some applicant tracking systems acknowledge submissions, but these automated responses may be diverted to your spam folder.
Sample Resume
Sutton Cowpoke Email | Phone | LinkedIn SUMMARY Driven and dedicated pre-professional seeking to leverage academic knowledge to contribute to effective land stewardship and resource management. EDUCATION University of Wyoming, School of Energy Resources Laramie, WY Bachelor of Science, Energy Resource Management & Development, 3.7 GPA, Class of 2027 Concentration: Professional Land Management (RL Certified) Relevant Coursework: Petroleum Economics & Law, GIS for Land Management, Curing Land Titles Activities & Projects May 2024 – Present • Student Chapter of Energy Resources, President • Collaborated with administrators to organize meetings and events. • Created a meaningful atmosphere with opportunities for PLM students to learn and network • Traveled to events and annual meetings, with NAPE to expand UW’s land program and network May 2025 – Present • Liaison for Wyoming Association of Professional Landmen (WAPL) May 2024 –May 2025 • Student Chapter of Energy Resources, Treasurer Aug 2023 –Dec 2023 • Ethical Leadership Certification from NASBA, Center for Public Trust TECHNICAL SKILLS SCHOLARSHIPS Denver Association of Professional Landmen • Python, SQL, R, Linux Wyoming Association of Professional Landmen • Windows OS, Mac OS EXPERIENCE D1 Student-Athlete, Women’s Tennis, Laramie, WY Team Captain – University of Wyoming Aug 2023 -Present • Mentored student-athletes, ages 12 to 18 during summer intensives. Created practices and events. • All-Mountain West Singles Team Honoree • Collaborated with 10 teammates to improve on-court performance and communication
Three Crown Petroleum CO/WY Freelance – Petroleum Landman Consultant December 2024 • Ran title primary seeking unleased acreage or expiring leases • Prepared reports for sections covered to summarize findings of OGLs, releases, partial releases, extensions, and open acreage
University of Wyoming Foundation Laramie, WY Summer Internship – Petroleum Landman June 2023 – Aug 2024 The University of Wyoming Foundation is a 501(C)(3) with oil and gas royalties and minerals in Colorado, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming • Organized and managed the royalty and mineral interests held by the Foundation across nine states • Created an accounting royalties schedule to manage and track monthly royalty checks, an ownership report of producing and non-producing interests, and an operator list with current operators • Discovered money in suspense for assets unknown previously to the Foundation • Reviewed all division orders and well applications sent to the Foundation
Summary can also be referred to as an Objective or Professional Summary. If you are applying with a cover letter & resume then an objective is not needed. This is a good place to mention a couple of skills you might want to highlight, or that are relevant to the job. This section should change for every position you apply for. Coursework is often your most recent experience as a student or recent graduate. Highlighting classes that are relevant to the job helps an employer see your experience in a field.
Resumes continually grow and change! What you put on your resume as a freshman or sophomore may no longer apply towards the end of your college career. Take time to keep your resume current.
Focus on the skills you gained and how you used them. These skills may change for every position you apply to. Refer to pages 20 & 21
Listing collegiate athletic experience demonstrates valuable transferable skills. (Leadership, teamwork, time management, strong work ethic, etc.)
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TRANSFERABLE SKILLS Transferable skills are abilities, attributes, and personal qualities obtained during your studies and experiences that you can use across industry lines. The following are examples of transferable skills.
ADMINISTRATIVE SKILLS Identifying resources, delegating tasks, and initiating new ideas ADAPTABILITY Being able to adjust to changes and respond quickly ANALYTICAL SKILLS Compiling, sorting, and analyzing data CREATIVE SKILLS Creating and designing new concepts or methods, or adding to existing ones CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS Making reasonable judgments that are well thought out after analyzing and evaluating a situation, event, or experience CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS Working with the public and interacting with customers with professionalism and efficiency INTERPERSONAL SKILLS Interacting effectively with others LEADERSHIP SKILLS Motivating and leading a group toward a common goal 12
MULTITASKING SKILLS Successfully completing multiple tasks at one time
TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS Using one’s time effectively or productively
ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS Using time, energy, and resources in an effective way in order to accomplish tasks and achieve goals
VERBAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS Listening and expressing one’s self with words
PERSUASION SKILLS Changing a person’s attitude or behavior toward a project, idea, object, or other person(s) PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS Recognizing an issue and identifying ways to solve the problem QUANTITATIVE SKILLS Sorting, analyzing, and applying mathematics to data TEACHING SKILLS Transferring knowledge and skills to others TEAMWORK SKILLS Collaborating with others in order to accomplish a goal or task TECHNOLOGICAL SKILLS Using appropriate technology to accomplish tasks
WRITTEN COMMUNICATION SKILLS Communicating ideas and concepts in writing
LABEL PROFICIENCY IN LANGUAGE • Novice (limited experience) • Intermediate (practical application) • Advanced (applied theory) Be ready to demonstrate or prove these skills if you list them.
Utilizing Space Sample Resume
Laramie J. Wyoming
(307) 555-5555 | Laramie, WY 82070 | LWyoming@hotmail.com | linkedin.com/LJW EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts, Secondary Education Social Studies Anticipated Graduation June 2025 University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY CERTIFICATIONS: Wyoming Social Studies Comprehensive 6-12 Endorsement, Wyoming Coaching Endorsement, Prevention and Care of Athletic Injuries, Fundamentals of Coaching, one credit hour by the Wyoming Coaches Association, American Heart Association in First Aid and CPR
TEACHING EXPERIENCE Resident Teacher, Laramie Middle School ACSD1 – Laramie, WY Spring 2025 5th-8th Grade Social Studies and English, 8th Grade Literature • Created materials, curriculum, lesson plans, rubrics, and assessments for 5th-8th grade Social Studies, 5th-6th grade English, and 8th-grade literature classes to meet proficiency standards in a variety of different mediums including oral, written, and project-based assessments to modify instruction and to ensure progress. • Designed and implemented curriculum structured around Literacy Common Core standards and Wyoming social studies standards that served as the framework for learning outcomes. • Collaborated with science and math educators within the school to develop a fully integrated middle school learning experience to teach about the collective goal of understanding pollution and garbology from the perspective of multiple subject areas. • Coordinated the first-ever School Geography Bee and moderated the final school competition. • Established positive parent and student communication through a variety of platforms including PowerSchool, Schoology, email, and parent-teacher conferences. Practicum Teacher, Johnson Jr. High LCSD1 – Cheyenne, WY Spring 2024 7th Grade Geography • Created lesson plans that were administered to six different geography classes. • Guided students to analyze a variety of different primary and secondary source documents to teach about Gandhi’s nonviolent movements that promoted equality in India. • Assessed students’ knowledge through a variety of different multiple-choice quizzes, writing assignments, and through interactive assessment tools, such as getkahoot.com. • Used a variety of different instructional methods including presentation explanation, discussion, and inquiry to teach lessons on world culture, cultural geography, and civil rights.
OTHER EXPERIENCE • •
Cashier, Moon Market Gas Station – Lawrence, KS Summer 2022 & 2023 Managed transactions, assisted customers with purchases, trained employees Summer Camp Counselor/Mentor, Lawrence County YMCA – Lawrence, KS Summer 2021 Supervised middle school-aged campers, trained “Junior Counselors,” led activities and games
VOLUNTEER WORK • • • •
University of Wyoming Alternative Spring Break participant to Belize (2022) and Guatemala (2021) Laramie youth basketball coach and referee Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Engineers Without Borders “Run Josh Run” charity event
HONORS • •
Wyoming Scholars Scholarship College of Education Dean’s List
Including certification is crucial to show your qualifications for a position. When utilizing space on a resume, make sure to bold headings. Quantify information. Levels, ages, amounts, percentages, time commitment, data, profit, and sales generated are some examples.
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University of Wyoming President’s List
Employers look at the experience to find evidence of transferable skills, competencies, knowledge gained, and proven track records of success. This is a great reason to list your “Study Abroad” experience. Contact Career Services to learn more.
Honors earned for academics can be included in their own section or be included in the education section.
Including nonrelevant or other experiences is important to show transferable skills.
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Sample Resume
Jo Cowboy
(307) 555-5555 JCowboy@gmail.com Laramie, WY 82070
EDUCATION:
Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate School of Pharmacy, University of Wyoming, Laramie WY BS Pre-Professional Pharmacy Program University of Wyoming (UW), Laramie WY Minor: Aging Studies and Honors, GPA: 4.0 LICENSURE: Licensed Pharmacy Intern, Wyoming and Colorado
May 2025 May 2021
WORK EXPERIENCE:
Pharmacy Internship Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (10 weeks) Feb - April 2025 Worked in central pharmacy and emergency department to complete medication reconciliations; completed 25-30 medication reconciliations daily. Pharmacy Technician Walgreens Pharmacy, Laramie, WY May 2022 - August 2023 Distributed medication under supervision; assisted patients and answered phones; administered vaccines; stocked shelves; entered patient data into computer. Adult and Geriatric Medical Specialties Ivinson Medical Group, Laramie, WY January 2022 120 hours of shadowing and journal article research focused on Aging Studies
ADVANCED PHARMACY PRACTICE EXPERIENCES:
Geriatrics, Pointe Frontier Retirement Home, Cheyenne, WY: February 2025 (4 weeks) • Review patient charts, clinic visits for medication therapy management to educate and improve geriatric patients’ adherence Advanced Community, VA Medical Center, Cheyenne, WY: January 2025 (4 weeks) • Assisted in filling prescriptions, medication counseling for mental health, home-based care, and anticoagulation patients Advanced Institutional, SageWest Health Care, Lander, WY: December 2024 (4 weeks) • Monitored daily therapy and recommended treatment modifications in comprehensive care conferences and answered drug information questions from healthcare team Ambulatory Care, Salud Family Health Centers, Longmont, CO: November 2024 (4 weeks) • Patient visits in anticoagulation clinic, monitored warfarin therapy and other disease states. Completed SOAP notes on 7-10 patients per week Internal Medicine I and II, Wyoming Medical Center, Casper, WY: October 2024 (4 weeks) • Monitored 3-7 patients, recommended therapy changes to family medicine team. Collaborated with peers and faculty to write “Polypharmacy” review article for The Journal of Family Practice
UPCOMING ADVANCED PHARMACY PRACTICE EXPERIENCES: Retail Pharmacy, Wal-Mart, Laramie, WY Critical Care, Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, Cheyenne, WY
HONORS & ACTIVITIES:
March 2025 April 2025
Historian & “Pharmacy Phrolic 5K” Chair, Rho Chi Society, UW Recipient of “Breakout Achievement Award.” Volunteer ASUW College of Health Sciences Student Senator, UW UW Division I Women’s Soccer, 2021-2023, Captain (2022-2023) Academic All-Conference, Scholar-Athlete Honors, and four-year letter winner Presidential Scholarship for Academic Excellence Wyoming Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists/ASHP Breakout Achievement Award
PRESENTATIONS:
The Dangers of Vaping: Are People Just Blowing Smoke?, UW Opioids: The Good, The Bad, and Everything In-Between, UW Professionalism in Pharmacy School, UW
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Education is your most recent experience as a student or recent graduate. Eventually, it will move down the page.
These statements all end with periods, but the ones below do not. It doesn’t matter which way you choose, just be consistent!
Whatever licenses or certifications your field values or requires that you have, you can include them under your Education section.
REMEMBER to have someone review your resume. Career Services & a professional in your field are great options.
2023-present 2020-2021
November 2021 October 2021 August 2021
Here, the employer location is bolded, where in other places it isn’t. Keep only your title bolded, since that’s what you want the reader to see first. When citing a journal article, consider using the format consistent with the style your career field uses (e.g. MLA, APA, etc).
REFERENCES •
Employers generally ask for three to four professional references.
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Have a reference page that is a Separate Document from your resume and cover letter.
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Ask each contact if they will serve as a strong positive reference for you and how they prefer to be contacted.
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Choose past/current supervisors (internship, summer job, or volunteer experience, professors, and colleagues (the more recent, the better).
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List your references in order of relevance and priority.
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Have several references you can cycle through if you are applying for several jobs.
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Ask if your reference will share a recommendation on your LinkedIn profile.
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Send a Thank You and inform them if you get the job. Your First and Last Name City, State & Zip Code Phone Number & Personal Email REFERENCES Top Reference Name Reference’s Job Title Employer Phone Number Email Address Relationship: (supervisor, colleague, faculty, etc.)
(Example Reference Below) Send references a copy of your resume and job description
Ms. Janet Smith Assistant Manager Coal Creek Coffee 110 Grand Ave. Laramie, WY 82072 (307) 745-7737 JSmith@cc.com
Relationship: Current supervisor at Coal Creek Coffee
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION –
Commonly requested for graduate school and fellowship positions.
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Notify references in advance, giving them plenty of time to consider the request.
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Provide a timeline and details of the job. **Remember to send a thank you.** 15
CURRICULUM VITAE/CV Vita: A comprehensive biographical statement (generally three or more pages) and is identified with its extensive use of headings. A Vita or a Resume? How do I choose? A vita, or CV, is typically used in academia, primarily for people with graduate and professional degrees, research, and consulting areas. Regardless, you need to make sure your most relevant qualifications appear on the first two pages. Getting Started: As with resumes, there are widely divergent opinions about what is necessary and desirable. Consider all suggestions carefully and incorporate only those that make sense to you. Organize with the most relevant and powerful heading first, next powerful second, and so forth. Identifying Information: List your name, phone number, and email at the top of your vita. It used to be common practice that you included marital status, and children (even height and weight); however, such information is inappropriate in the United States. What you include internationally varies by country. Summary of Educational Background: List all your degrees in reverse chronological order. Begin with your bolded degree abbreviation (Ph.D.) and discipline, university/ college name, city, state, and date you received or plan to receive it. You can include your dissertation, thesis titles, GPA, minors, or area of concentration. Summary of Relevant Work Experience: This section can be broken down into several subcategories (Teaching Experience, Grants, Research Activities, Professional Experience, Courses Taught, Service, Advising, Work History, etc.). Again, your decision will be based on your experience and the position. Bold the position title. List organization name, city, state, and dates of employment. List all information in reverse chronological order. Describe responsibilities with action verbs. Recent and Current Research: For most academic positions, this is the crux of your vita. Describe research projects recently conducted or in progress: type of research, purpose, grants, funding, etc. Granting Agency, “Title of Grant,” $Grant Value, Year Papers and Poster Sessions Presented at Conferences: Use categories such as workshops, presentation by competition, and presentation by invitation. List these in reverse chronological order (most recent comes first). Last name, First initial., other authors. (Year, Month). Paper/Presentation Title. Name of Conference, City, State. Dates.
Need Help? ACES Career Services is available! 16
Publications: List all professional publications using the bibliographic style prescribed for your discipline. However, bold your name to make it easy for the reader to find. Include published work and pending publications. Last name, First initial., other authors. (Year). Title. Journal, Volume (Issue), page numbers. Pending Publications: Last name, First initial., other authors. (Year to be published). Title. Manuscript submitted for publication. Professional Memberships: List these in alphabetical order. Leadership/Professional Service: Bold your position title, name of the organization, and give dates. (Remember to include membership on major committees, task forces, boards, elected offices, etc.) Special Awards and Honors: These can be divided into subcategories, such as scholarships, fellowships, teaching or research awards, competitive assistantships, etc. If you only have one or two to mention, then think about listing them under the related experience. Final Tips: •
Be consistent
•
Don’t use double entries
•
Don’t mix chronological orders
•
The job description is your road map
Heading Examples: * Headings may vary due to profession. • • • • • • • • • • • •
Abstracts Appointments Academic Service Academic Training Administration Appointments Areas of Expertise Assistantships Career Highlights Chapters College Activities Committees
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Credentials Endorsements Exhibits Graduate Practical Grants & Contracts Honors & Awards Internships Invited Addresses Language Competencies Licensure National Boards Outreach
• • • • • • • • • • •
Postdoctoral Experience Memberships Professional Overview Professional Service Publications Recommendations Research Activities Reviews Scholarly Works Specialized Training Teaching Summary
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ADDITIONAL APPLICATION MATERIALS
WRITING SAMPLE • •
• • •
•
Can be a past report or class writing assignment. Should be no more than two to three pages while expressing a complete thought. Do not submit with grading or comments. Choose a relevant topic when possible. If you do not currently have a relevant writing sample, consider writing a synopsis of a recent article relevant to your industry. Include prompt when provided one.
• • • • • • • • •
Statement of Purpose Personal Statement Portfolios Transcripts Research Statement Teaching Philosophy Observation Hours Test Scores References (refer to pg 15)
INDUSTRY SPECIFIC •
UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT •
•
You can view and print your unofficial transcript or order official transcripts from WyoWeb. If you need to send electronically, you will either print and scan or snip each page and paste into a PDF document.
•
•
Some industries may require or suggest additional documents, such as online or printed portfolios, statements, or philosophies. Websites or videos may be requested for fine and performing art fields. Check with industry professionals or a career service staff member to determine your industry’s expectations.
FILE NAMES & SAVING DOCUMENTS Saving your documents with clear and appropriate file names will ensure your materials don’t get lost. Example: JCowboyResume.pdf or JCowboyCoverLetter.pdf. Saving as a PDF prevents your formatting from getting jumbled. Some online application systems cannot process PDFs, so always follow specific system instructions. You can always send an email to ask questions and make a connection. APPLICATIONS BY EMAIL Always include a brief note in the body of the email stating what you’re applying for, what materials you have attached, and how to contact you. An email can also be a good opportunity to reiterate your excitement for the position.
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INTERNATIONAL RESUMES There are key differences between international and domestic resumes. Other parts of the world refer to a resume as a CV. Since resumes and CVs contain important information employers want to see, the information may vary depending on the country you are applying in.
Key Differences in International Resume Structure Format & Length Presentation of dates and phone numbers. Number of pages varies per country. (For example, dd/mm/yy is used internationally, instead of mm/dd/yy) Personal Information Might expect a photo, nationality, hobbies, birth date, or visa status. Work Experience Format Reverse chronological order is common worldwide. Education Match degree names internationally, GPA weight varies. Focus on the country’s norms. Localization & Language Use local spelling, avoid confusing acronyms, and spell out terms. ATS Optimization When in doubt, use plain formatting, common fonts, save as a PDF, no graphics or photos, and always use job description keywords. (ATS is not as commonly used in Europe)
Steps to consider when writing an International Resume/CV Do your Homework and Research • Industry & Employment trends of the country • Visa requirements • Company Fit your resume/CV to the specific standards and preferences of the country. Ask a native speaker to proofread your materials or connect with a translator. Include languages that you speak and your proficiency in each one. Make a personal connection in the company or country. Meet with UW Career Services for more assistance.
Find more resume resources! 19
Competencies employers seek on candidate’s resumes •
Communication skills (written & verbal)
•
Leadership
•
Problem-solving/critical thinking skills
•
Initiative
•
Analytical/quantitative skills
•
Attention to detail
•
Strong work ethic/professionalism
•
Computer skills
•
Ability to work in a team/collaboration
•
Organized
Action and Skill Verbs that Describe Your Functional Skills ACHIEVEMENT advanced assured bolstered eliminated encouraged enhanced expanded facilitated fostered generated guaranteed identified improved increased inspired mastered maximized motivated obtained overcame promoted reduced restored stimulated strengthened upgraded
ANALYSIS & PROBLEM SOLVING abstracted analyzed appraised briefed clarified 20
compared computed correlated critiqued debated defined determined diagnosed dissected evaluated examined identified interviewed investigated judged maintained mapped monitored observed perceived ranked read reasoned related researched reviewed screened scanned solved studied summarized surveyed synthesized verified visualized
ASSISTANCE advised assisted collaborated contributed consulted cooperated enlisted facilitated fostered helped participated referred served strengthened supported sustained
publicized recorded responded spoke wrote
CREATION & DEVELOPMENT
acted adapted authored built charged clarified composed conceived corrected created COMMUNICATION designed developed addressed devised advertised discovered answered drafted briefed eliminated communicated established corresponded expanded debated expedited explained initiated expressed innovated facilitated instituted interpreted integrated interviewed introduced lectured invented listened launched narrated modified prepared originated presented
perceived performed planned prioritized produced promoted proposed recommended reduced restored refined revamped set shaped simplified solved styled streamlined substituted visualized
OPERATIONS adjusted adapted clarified corrected eliminated expedited facilitated fixed implemented installed performed prepared prioritized produced
programmed promoted ran reduced repaired serviced set transported upheld used utilized
planned prioritized processed programmed reorganized reproduced retrieved revamped revised scheduled set simplified ORGANIZATION solved streamlined accumulated structured arranged synthesized assembled updated built cataloged PERSUASION clarified classified aided coordinated advertised correlated auctioned detailed enlisted developed facilitated facilitated helped filed improved gathered led graphed maintained identified motivated inspected negotiated located persuaded maintained promoted mapped purchased met (deadlines) raised methodized recommended obtained recruited organized
SERVICE attended cared catered delivered entertained facilitated listened maintained prepared procured provided satisfied served supplied
SUPERVISION/ MANAGEMENT administered allocated approved arranged assigned authorized coached conducted decided delegated directed dispatched distributed educated encouraged enforced evaluated executed
exercised coached expedited comforted facilitated communicated fired conducted followed (through) coordinated hired demonstrated implemented educated instructed empathized led enabled maintained encouraged met (deadlines) enlightened monitored guided motivated helped organized implemented oversaw improved planned influenced prepared informed regulated inspired reinforced interpreted responded investigated retained observed reviewed perceived scheduled persuaded set restored shared supervised solved TEACHING & spoke COUNSELING stimulated strengthened adapted substituted advised supported advocated sustained aided taught assessed trained briefed validated cared charged clarified
Words That Describe Your Personal Traits active adaptable adept broad-minded competent conscientious creative dependable
determined diplomatic disciplined discreet efficient energetic enterprising experienced
fair forceful honest innovative instrumental logical loyal mature
methodical objective outgoing participate personable pleasant positive productive
reliable resourceful self-reliant sensitive sincere successful tactful versatile 21
COVER LETTER BASICS A cover letter is an introduction to who you are and why you are applying for the job. It is your opportunity to elaborate on the skills or experience you have listed in your resume and speak of your enthusiasm for the organization. Cover letters are an important part of job applications. How to begin — The layout of your cover letter should be professional and can be found on page 23 along with suggestions of who to address it to. The best way to approach your letter is to think of responding to two common interview questions. 1. Why do you want to work HERE, specifically? Research the company, show them that you are interested in what they do, and explain why you decided to apply for the position. Hiring managers like to see that candidates have taken the time to research. 2. Why should we hire YOU, specifically? Keep it brief and explain why you are qualified for the position, without just repeating your resume. Look at the job description and show how you have gained experience and the qualifications they are asking for. Make the connections for the reader! Online Applicant Tracking Systems are used frequently by employers. It is important to match “Key Words” from the job description. Look at page 10 for more ATS information.
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Keep it precise — It’s like a handshake, not a novel. Writing three short paragraphs is great; four paragraphs should be the max. Employers read dozens, if not hundreds, of applications. Pique their interest so they call you for an interview to learn more.
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Customize for the position & company — Do not use the same generic letter for all your applications. Tailor the cover letter and resume to the job description and company. Yes, it takes time, but it shows the employer that you are invested and have done your research.
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Write about your strengths & relevant experience — Is there relevant coursework, volunteer work, or experience with organizations that have helped you gather certain skills for this job? Employers are looking for skills and competencies. Help them see where you have gained and used your transferable skills. Look at page 12 for more on Transferable Skills.
–
Proofread & Get Feedback — Have a friend, family member, or UW Career Services Professional proofread your letter. Use spellcheck, Grammarly, or have the computer read it out loud to hear if the ideas connect. We can often get stuck in our thinking and forget to step back and listen to see if it makes sense outside our thoughts. The UW Writing Center can also assist.
COVER LETTER COMPONENTS Your First and Last Name
Date (Month, Day, Year)
City State, Zip Code Phone Number Personal Email
Name of Employer Contact (or HR Director) Job Title Organization Street Address City, State ZIP
Don’t write: “To Whom It May Concern” When possible, direct your cover letter to a specific person. If you can’t find a contact name, use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Search Committee.”
Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. _____________: (use last name) INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH: • • •
Why are you writing? Specifically mention the position and company you are applying to. Make a connection with the reader by mentioning a common professional acquaintance or by expressing your interest in the organization. Conclude the paragraph with a statement similar to a thesis statement, indicating the skills you are going to address in the next two paragraphs.
BODY PARAGRAPHS: •
• •
Show that you can do the job by providing specific examples of work, internship, volunteer, leadership, or class experiences to illustrate you have the same or similar skills as the job description. Explain why you are a PERFECT FIT for this position and this organization. Explain how you can add value to the company and why you want to work there specifically.
CLOSING PARAGRAPH: • •
Thank the employer for looking over your application materials, and reiterate your interest in the position and/or organization. Expressing your willingness to follow up or provide more information is a strong Call to Action, and remember that gratitude is memorable. “Thank you for your time and consideration.”
“Sincerely” or “Respectfully,”
Typed Signature 23
DECODING THE JOB DESCRIPTION
Position: Junior Copywriter Company: Design My Home Inc. Location: Denver, CO, US Area of Interest: Creative Services Position Type: Full Time
JOB DESCRIPTION Responsible for product copy for the “Design My Home” brand. We are seeking creative individuals with *strong writing and editing skills*. Ability to work as a *member of a team* is a must! The Junior Copywriter will play a vital role in *writing product and website copy* that aligns with the company brand. The successful applicant will work closely with our in-house Project Management, Catalog Content, and Website Creative teams, and lead meetings with designers to develop an understanding of new products. He/she will partner closely with our in-house Web Development team to ensure accuracy of information and consistency of style in website product descriptions. •Manage• copy requests, *proofread and edit* incoming copy, and make changes as needed. °Research and conceptualize° new campaign ideas. •Prioritize deadlines• and manage multiple projects and assignments. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS • Experience with project management • Experience with in-house advertising • Familiarity with +Adobe Photoshop+, InDesign, and Java • Personal passion for interior design
Note items in bold and Match Symbols (*••°+˜) These are points of significance on the job description that have been included in the cover letter as an example.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS • Four-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience • One to three years of copy writing or editing experience • Positive and flexible attitude, with the ability to roll with any situation • Superior *editing, writing, proofreading*, and ˜communication skills˜ • Very strong ability to prioritize and work efficiently • Strong competency as a •team player• as well as flexibility to work individually • Strong sense of accountability, especially regarding deadlines, and follow-through on commitments TO APPLY: Submit cover letter and resume to John Smith, Human Resources Manager, at j.smith@designmh.com.
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SAMPLE COVER LETTER Joe Cowboy 307 Pistol Pete Dr, Laramie, WY 82070 (307) 555-5555 JCowboy@gmail.com
Mr. John Smith Human Resources Manager Design My Home 1 Beacon Street Denver, CO 02116 Dear Mr. Smith:
March 1, 2025
Note items in bold and Match Symbols (*••°+˜) These are points of significance on the job description that have been included in the cover letter as an example.
Having experience as a copy writing intern and enthusiasm for interior design, I am excited to apply for the Junior Copywriter position with Design My Home. After speaking with Sarah Brown at the University of Wyoming information session about copy writing opportunities in your Boston office, I knew Design My Home would be the perfect company for me. Design My Home’s creative approach to promoting contemporary décor connects with my personal passion for interior design. My interest in home design in addition to my *creative writing, editing*, and ˜communication skills˜ make me a strong candidate for this position. As a copy writing intern I gained direct experience *writing, proofreading, and editing copy.* One of my largest projects at Publishers Clearing House was to ˜communicate˜ with my fellow interns to °research and construct° a potential marketing proposal. Our •team worked together• to design innovative online marketing materials using +Adobe Photoshop+ for our new e-reader product to be implemented through our social media sites. I created copy content to complement the design work of my fellow interns. After proposing our ideas to the senior copywriters and marketing managers, our design was selected to be incorporated into the new social media campaign. I look forward to applying my ˜communication˜ and •teamwork skills• to the Junior Copywriter position at Design My Home. While working for UW’s campus newspaper, I was promoted from Staff Writer to Assistant Editor. As Assistant Editor it was vital I •managed production deadlines• to ensure our paper was published on time and without errors. Working for an independent, student-run paper increases my appreciation for Design My Home’s history as a startup company. I look forward to discussing how I could apply my skills and experience to the Junior Copywriter position. Please contact me with any questions at 307-555-5555 or JCowboy@gmail.com. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,
Joe Cowboy
If the employer does not require a cover letter, but you apply through email, treat your email as your cover letter.
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CAREER FAIRS Career Fairs are a valuable resource for college students, providing them with practical tools, knowledge, and connections that can significantly impact their career development and job search success.
Before the Fair: • • •
• •
Complete SOAR Career & Self-Development milestone. Check Handshake to see what employers will be in attendance and which are conducting interviews. Research the employers (what they do, their FALL FAIRS products, recent successes/challenges, history, • Agriculture, Life Sciences, values, work culture, and future plans). and Natural Resources Practice your introduction/elevator speech. • Business Attend Career Prep Events hosted by UW Career • Engineering & Construction Services.
During the Fair: • • • •
Be confident, act professionally, and be enthusiastic when talking with employers. Bring copies of your resume. Ask several questions about potential opportunities. Jot down notes after each interaction; it is difficult to remember specifics later.
After the Fair: • •
• •
• • •
Health Professionals Pharmacy STEM
SPRING FAIRS • • • • •
Engineering & Construction Criminal Justice Hospitality & Tourism STEM Teacher Fair
Organize all the material and notes into a notebook or file. Send a follow-up email or note to any company recruiters you spoke to and thank them for their time and information. Select and pursue companies that appealed to you. Check Handshake to see which employers are conducting interviews in the future.
You can find all our events and more at uwyo.edu/aces/career-services/career-events.html
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CAREER EVENT CHECKLIST Preparation is critical. UW Career Services provide workshops or individual meetings to help you prepare. Events are listed on ACES Career Event page or on Handshake.
Create a Handshake profile to find event specifics such as time, location and employer info.
Upcoming events found in
Put it on your calendar, ask for time off to attend, and set some reminders so you don’t forget. Update your resume. (Get it reviewed by Career Services staff.)
wyoming.joinhandshake.com
Print multiple copies of your resume. Consider using a professional portfolio or folder to hold your resume. Take a pen and extra paper for notes. Research the employers or companies who will be there. Make a list of questions to ask recruiters to express interest in them and have taken time to research their company. Plan your professional attire. Dress for success! Clothes should be clean,well fitting, and wrinkle-free; shoes shined, jewelry and fragrances kept to a minimum, hair/nails/facial hair trimmed and professional, fresh breath, and use deodorant. See page 28 for more information. Collect employers’ business cards for communicating afterwards and take time to follow up with them. Follow Up with the professionals you met by sending an email or connecting on LinkedIn. Thank them for their time.
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DRESS FOR SUCCESS A person’s attire portrays a sense of professionalism. What you wear can boost your self-confidence and make a good first impression. When trying to figure out the different levels of business dress, it helps to consider regions, cultures, and climate conditions.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
• • • • •
Clean, well-fitted, wrinkle-free clothing Colors are normally dark or neutral Modest is the best policy Minimal Accessories When in doubt, dress a step above
General Recommendations
Natural or neutral and neat - no chips or cracks on nails
Business Professional
SOLID, DARK OR NEUTRAL COLORS FOR SUITS
LIGHT CO LORS CAN BE WORN UNDERNEATH NO BOLD, STRIPES OR BRIGHT PRINTS/COLORS
Business Casual
CLOSED-TOE HEEL OR DRESS SHOES
Infographic courtesy of Stetson University
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Infographic courtesy of Stetson University
ACE THE INTERVIEW Good News! If you’ve been asked to interview, the employer thinks you are qualified. Now, confidently impress them with these tips for Before, During, and After the interview.
Do the Research: Show how much you want the job Know the Employer - Look over their website, understand what industry they are associated with, interview someone who already works there, and be sure to review their mission statement and company values. Know the Job - Review the job description, highlight your skills, and know how they qualify you for the specific position and company.
Be Prepared: Make a good first impression Practice - Go over sample questions found on page 31. Career Services offers mock interviews for practice. Be on Time - But not too early. Know where you’re going. Call if you are unexpectedly late. Look Sharp - This will make you feel more confident. Turn Off Your Cell Phone - Not to vibrate; completely off. Know Your “Pitch” - You are selling yourself as a product in an interview. Think of examples you can share about your experience. Be clear and specific about what you can offer them. *** Bring Your Own Questions - Show that you are thoroughly interested in learning more about the organization.
During the Interview: Listen carefully & respond Be Confident and Show Enthusiasm - Don’t overshare. Have Good Eye Contact Keep it Positive and be Truthful - It is possible to talk about past failures, tough situations or difficult interactions and highlight how you made a positive impact, or what you learned from your mistake. End on a Good Note - Thank them for their time and reiterate again that you are very interested in the position. Ask what the next steps are in the hiring process.
Follow Up: Take time to send a thank you note to show your interest. If they did not clarify when they would be in touch with you about a decision, reach out, check in.
The interview is an opportunity to determine if your skills fit the position the company is seeking to fill. If your answers aren’t what the interviewer is looking for, this position may not be the job for you anyway. Reflect, Refresh, Regroup 29
BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEWS Instead of asking how you would behave, they ask how you did behave. Behavioral interview questions ask for examples of how you handled a situation as a predictor of what you might do in the future. Traditional interview questions such as “What motivates you?” or “Why should we hire you?” typically require a straight forward or more general answer.
Employers are trained to look for STAR answers. Be ready to describe the situation, the task assigned to you, actions you took, and the results or outcome by remembering the acronym STAR:
Situation
Task
Action
Result
Ways to prepare for a behavioral based interview: •
•
• • •
Tell a Story. Recall recent situations that reflect favorable behaviors or actions, especially involving course work, work experience, leadership, teamwork, initiative, planning, and customer service. Paint a Complete Picture. Be sure each story has a beginning, a middle, and an end. Be sure the result or outcome reflects positively on you (even if the result itself was not favorable). Be Honest. Don’t embellish or omit any part of the story. Be Specific. Don’t generalize about several events; give a detailed account and discuss your specific role within one event. Prepare. Write your stories down so you remember the details you want to highlight.
Examples of behavioral based questions: • • •
Give an example of an occasion when you used logic to solve a problem. Tell me about a course, work experience, or extracurricular activity where you had to work closely with others. How did it go? How did you overcome any differences? Describe the way you handled a specific problem involving others ideas, differing values, or beliefs. What were the results?
Keep in mind there aren’t right or wrong answers.
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SAMPLE QUESTIONS •
Tell me a little about yourself./How would you describe yourself?
•
What led you to choose your major field of study or your minor?
•
Why are you seeking a position with our company?
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What do you know about our company?
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What is your perception of a typical workday/work-week in this position?
•
What do you think it takes to be successful in a company like ours?
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In what ways do you think you could make a positive contribution to our company?
•
Why should I hire you?
•
What do you see yourself doing 5-10 years from now?
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What are your long-range and short-range career goals? How do you plan to achieve these goals?
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What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
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How do you evaluate success?
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Describe a situation in which you were successful.
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Which experience has prepared you most for this position?
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Which job have you liked best/least and why?
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What was the most difficult challenge you have had to handle in a job and what did you do?
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What have you learned from your mistakes?
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Describe an experience in which you worked as a part of a team.
•
What two or three accomplishments/achievements are you most proud of and why?
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Give me an example of a time when you had to work under tremendous pressure. What was the outcome?
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What changes would you make in your last place of employment/college experience and why?
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How do you think your previous supervisors/professors would describe you?
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What kind of supervisor do you enjoy working for?
•
What is your idea of an ideal supervisor/supervisee relationship?
•
What qualities would a successful manager possess?
•
Describe your most rewarding college experience.
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What college subjects do you like best/least and why?
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What have you learned from participation in extracurricular/community activities?
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How has your college experience prepared you for the career you are seeking?
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Do you have plans for continued study for an advanced degree?
•
Do you have a geographical preference and why? Are you willing to relocate? Are you willing to travel?
Be prepared to ask questions At the end of an interview it is common to be asked if you have any questions for them. Having questions for the employer shows your interest and that you researched the company. Questions you can ask the interviewer •
How would you describe a typical day on the job/the nature of the position?
•
What type of training can I expect in the first three months?
•
What is your vision for this position? For the company?
•
What are some of the difficulties facing your company now?
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What is the hardest part about your job? What do you enjoy the most?
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What characteristics in applicants most impress you? What did you like about my resume?
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How does the company invest in the career advancement of its employees?
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COMMON TOUGH QUESTIONS 1. Tell me about yourself. Provide a little background on yourself, but not a complete biography. The employer is trying to get a quick snapshot of who you are professionally. Mention what drew you to the company, position, or program.
Interview Tip: – Ask them to repeat the question. –
Take a moment in silence to gather your thoughts.
–
Have good eye contact!
2. What are your strengths/weaknesses? Questions like this help the interviewer gain insight on your self-awareness. STRENGTH — Focus on strengths you have objectively demonstrated in previous experiences. WEAKNESS — When talking about weaknesses, be honest and reflective. Genuine answers will impress. You are not expected to reveal your deepest secret! Talk about a weakness you have taken steps to work on such as, “I struggled with organization so I have a planner, and have seen positive improvement as I work on this weakness.”
3. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years? The employer is trying to determine if your career goals and ambitions align with the company or program. Prepare for this question by assessing your short and long-term goals and it’s okay to keep it general. At the very least, talk about the type of work you’d like to do or your leadership aspirations. “I’m excited about ... and hope to have the opportunity to ... so that I can ultimately ...”
4. Why did you leave your last position? Bad mouthing a former boss or company will not endear you to the interviewer. If you cannot think of a good reason, simply say that you are looking for a new challenge or opportunity. Be positive, honest, factual, and confident.
5. What color/animal/superhero would you be and why? “Fun” questions like these may pop up in an interview and throw you off. Remember there is no wrong answer in this situation. The employer wants to see how you think under pressure, how creative you are, or get to know your personality. Take a deep breath and feel free to be imaginative and funny if appropriate.
6. Why should we hire you? This is your chance to make your final pitch. Consider what sets you apart and list the top reasons why they should choose you. Number them if you have a tendency to ramble: “The three main reasons you should hire me are....” Typical reasons for entry level jobs are that you have the education, experience, and passion.
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VIRTUAL INTERVIEWING TIPS & RECOMMENDATIONS Phone or virtual interviews are very common and are used primarily as the method of choice for the initial interview, especially if you are in a different location. Although you may be familiar with the virtual environment, here are suggestions to present yourself professionally. •
Check (and double check) your equipment and WiFi signal - Find a location you can trust. Libraries often have study/meeting rooms. Test it prior to the interview.
•
Environment is key - No Distractions (pets included). Background should be clean, uncluttered, and simple. Avoid bedrooms, cars, and busy locations.
•
Have good lighting - Put the window or light in front of you so it lights your face and doesn’t present a glare behind you.
•
Turn your camera ON - The position of your camera helps create a connection. The camera should be level with your head or a little higher. You don’t want to be looking down at it. When you talk, look into the camera, not at the screen.
•
Dress professionally and fully - Just cause they don’t see it doesn’t mean it won’t effect how you act or feel. Save the sweat pants for later.
•
Have job-related materials in front of you - Resume, cover letter, job description, company info, etc. You can bring a “cheat sheet” if necessary, containing anything that could help prompt you on relevant interview questions.
•
Connect with the interviewer - Greet them when you sign on ask how their day is. Listen attentively and look into the camera for good eye contact.
•
Take notes - Write down relevant information or potential questions for the employer. Make sure you get the names of everyone who interviews you for follow up and a thank-you note.
•
Don’t be thrown off by long pauses or silence after you answer a question - The interviewers are probably just writing down your answer. Schedule a virtual mock interview with UW Career Services.
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DINING ETIQUETTE Manners, Professionalism, and Etiquette are presented in social behavior and start with the consideration of others. Employers are looking for people who will represent their company positively beyond the office. Taking job candidates to dinner is common in the interview process, or you may find yourself at a conference or dining with a client. Dining etiquette is essential in being professional. Basic Manners: • Turn off your cell phone before sitting at the dining table and keep it off the table. • Follow your host’s lead. When to sit, when to place your napkin, and the price of meal to order. • Be polite to the server. • Wait until everyone at the table has been served before you begin eating. • Take small bites, cutting one bite of food at a time. • Dinner rolls can be torn one piece at a time, buttered, and eaten. • Utensils are placed in the order of use. Work from the outside in. • Your bread plate is on the left and your drink glass is on your right. Use your hands to help remember b on the left, d on the right. • When you are done eating, place your utensils at 4 o’clock. Be mindful of: • Be aware of how you are presenting yourself. (Posture, facial expression, elbows off the table) • Avoid foul language and slang. • Don’t monopolize the conversation. Ask questions to draw others into conversations. • Be polite no matter what topics arise. Be a good listener even if you don’t always agree. • Stay up to date on the news of the industry. Refrain from: • Refrain from ordering alcoholic drinks. (Especially if you are under 21) • Don’t blow your nose in your napkin. Excuse yourself from the table. • Don’t discuss personal relationships, recent parties, politics, or religion.
INFORMAL
FORMAL
Water Glass
Place Card Bread Plate
Wineglass
Water Glass Wineglass Bread Knife
Plate
Dinner Knife
Teaspoon
Utensils are placed one inch from the edge of the table.
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(white)
Salad Plate
Soup Spoon
Dinner Fork
Wineglass
Cake Fork Service Plate
Napkin
Salad Fork
(red)
Dessert Spoon
Napkin Soup Spoon
Salad Fork
Dinner Fork
Dinner Knife
Teaspoon
Cup and Saucer
generally aren’t placed on the table until the dessert course
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS Are you familiar with your rights during the interview process, or do you have an understanding of what questions might be illegal? The Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1964 is a federal law protecting the rights of applicants and employees during the interview, hiring, and employment process. Under this Act, it’s illegal for a hiring authority to ask applicants questions about their:
• age • the presence of a disability • gender • race • height and weight • religious affiliation
• citizenship • marital status • children • sexual orientation • or medical conditions • history of drug and alcohol use
Most employers do not ask illegal questions maliciously; they’re either unaware that the questions are inappropriate or are trying to learn information they view as important. It’s helpful to have some prepared responses if these questions come up during the interview. Here are some ideas: – How does this pertain to the job? – Why is this information needed? – I do not feel comfortable discussing this topic in an interview. – I prefer not to answer that question. From there, let your intuition guide you in determining the interviewer’s intent with the question. If your gut tells you this may not be a welcoming place to work, trust that feeling! Continue with the interview, be professional and polite. For specific information pertaining to protected individuals, consult the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (www.eeoc.gov).
Sexual Harassment As a University of Wyoming student, you are protected by University Regulations 4-2 and 4-3. These prohibit sexual harassment and/or misconduct. If you feel you have been the victim of these behaviors while on an internship, practicum, student teaching, or research experience, please immediately contact the Equal Opportunity Report and Response (EORR) office on the UW campus, at 307-766-5200 or report-it@uwyo.edu. 35
AFTER THE INTERVIEW Show your interest and professionalism by following up after the interview. Next Steps and Contact Info It is always good to inquire about the decision-making timeline before you leave. Hopefully, they will let you know the next steps, but it is okay to ask what is next in the interview process. Reflect Write down what you want to remember. Note what you felt went well and where you would like to improve. Give yourself credit for being invited to an interview! Thank-You Letter Send immediately after the interview. Thank You’s can be handwritten, or you can send an email, particularly if email is how you have previously communicated with the interviewer. Follow Up If you have not heard back from the employer in their proposed time frame, wait one day and then reach out to them. Keep it positive and short. “I enjoyed our conversation on (date). Would you be able to update me on your timing or any potential next steps in the interview process for (position title)? Thank you for your time.” Receiving a Job Offer! Let the employer know you received the offer (if it was an email or voicemail) and thank them. If you need time to think about it ask when they need an answer and then work to notify them of your decision as soon as possible. Don’t put off informing an employer of your decision to accept or reject the offer, as it could be rescinded before you do so. Refer to indeed.com/career-advice/starting-new-job/got-a-job-offer Job Acceptance Ethics When an offer is accepted, you should have every intention of honoring that commitment. Accepting an offer only as a precautionary measure is misleading to the employer. Students should recognize that the acceptance of a job offer may be a legally binding contract and that the employer may have the option to take legal action against the person who accepts more than one offer. 36
THANK-YOU NOTES Thank-you notes help you stay on the employer’s mind. Reiterate your interest, strengths, and introduce additional relevant information after thanking them for the interview.
• • • •
Email within 24 hours. Mail a letter or card in addition to email (optional, but encouraged). Send individual notes to each person you interact with (if possible). Send a message of some sort after any significant interaction with an employer to be polite. (career fair, employer panel, networking event, interview).
Joe Cowboy
307 Pistol Pete Dr, Laramie, WY 82070 (307) 555-5555, JCowboy@gmail.com
Dear Mrs. Smith:
March 1, 2025
It was a pleasure to meet you this morning. Thank you for your willingness to interview me for the Communications Associate job at Aspen Laboratories. Your team really seems to enjoy working there, and I’d be fortunate to count myself among them. I was particularly interested in the upcoming projects you mentioned in our conversation and believe my internship at the UW’s Institutional Marketing Office – especially with social media – provided me with a solid foundation to help spread the word about the good work going on at Aspen Laboratories. Please let me know if you require any additional information. I hope to hear back from you soon about the next steps. Respectfully,
Joe Cowboy 37
SALARY NEGOTIATION It may be tempting to just accept a job offer without considering salary and benefits, but doing so might cost you money and result in frustration. Salary conversations can be uncomfortable; make sure you’re prepared for it by understanding some terms and resources. Salary: Do some research on what is normally offered in your field (using the resources below), keeping in mind factors like industry standards, variations based on geographical location, cost of living, and state income tax rates. Benefits: While salaries are sometimes set in stone, other aspects of the job can be negotiable, such as health insurance and retirement packages, student loan repayment assistance, vacation and sick days, relocation coverage, and performance bonuses. Perks: These aspects of the job, which usually don’t have monetary value, can make a difference in terms of your quality of life and job satisfaction. Ask about a company car, business travel expectations, professional development, access to a company gym, childcare services, or office size, remote work, and flexible hours.
Negotiation Basics Assess the market (using the resources below) to become familiar with salary ranges for your job title based on location, years of experience, certifications and training, etc. Use more than one resource to get a balanced sense of a range. 2. State your worth by being able to describe what you bring to the table, in terms of experience, certifications and training, or specialized skills. 3. Aim a little high to give the employer negotiating room but be realistic as well — as a new graduate, you may simply not have the experience or training just yet to have much bargaining power. 4. Remember, the worst they can do is turn you down, in which case you have a decision to make. If you feel the offer is unreasonable or unrealistic, be prepared to respectfully decline employment. 1.
Resources Indeed.com/career/salaries Allows you to look by job title and city/state. It will also compare that to nearby locations. Salary.com Research salaries by job title and state; also provides the lowest and highest pay rates for that title in that area. Bureau of Labor Statistics Salary Information Bls.gov/ooh is data collected by the federal government and has other data like career outlook and a state-by-state comparison. Cost of Living Calculator/Comparison: NerdWallet Nerdwallet.com/cost-of-living-calculator lets you plug in where you live now and compare it to a city you’re considering; you can see how much more or less you’d pay for housing, utilities, etc. 38
INTERNSHIPS “An internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional workplace setting.” —National Association of Colleges and Employers
Gain Experience
College students have many opportunities to gain hands-on experience, build practical skills, and explore potential career paths. Internships: Employers provide structured work experiences that incorporate training relevant to specific educational outcomes. Some degrees require an internship, and you may be able to receive academic credit as well. Relevant Work: Entry-level jobs can provide meaningful training and experience. These jobs provide a strong foundation to launch your career when you graduate. Research: Many professors have undergraduates assist with their research projects. These experiences are particularly useful if you want to attend graduate school. Volunteering: Helping a nonprofit group is a great way to give back to your community while gaining hands-on experience. These professional and applied experiences enable you to connect classroom learning to real-world challenges, gain industry insights, and expand your professional network. They also demonstrate your commitment, adaptability, and initiative to future employers.
When should I look for an internship? While many students complete their internships in the summer after their sophomore or junior year, it’s a good idea to meet with a career professional in your first year of college. They will help you understand the hiring timeline in your field and make a plan for finding an internship or work opportunity when the time comes. Some opportunities may take place during the school year, so plan accordingly. Where do I start? Each college has a team of career services professionals who can help you identify opportunities in your field of interest. They can direct you to industry job boards and listservs, help you prepare your resume, and connect you with alumni networks.
Start looking for internships on Handshake.
Treat your internship experience with the professionalism of a career. 39
AI FOR PROFESSIONAL GROWTH What is Generative AI? Generative AI refers to artificial intelligence systems that generate
new content, ideas, and solutions based on existing data. These models analyze patterns, learn from vast amounts of information, and create tailored outputs to match specific needs. (ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Claude, Google Gemini)
How AI Enhances Career Development and Job Searching 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Career Path Guidance – AI assesses trends in your industry, suggests skills to develop, and helps map out career trajectories to keep you ahead of the competition. Smart Job Matching – AI-driven job platforms leverage algorithms to recommend roles that best fit your skills, experience, and preferences, helping you discover opportunities you may have missed. Resume and Cover Letter Optimization – AI can analyze job descriptions and suggest ways to tailor your resume and cover letter for maximum impact, ensuring they align with the skills recruiters are searching for. Interview Coaching – AI-powered chatbots and platforms simulate real interviews, providing feedback on responses, body language, and communication skills to boost your confidence. Networking and Outreach – AI tools help you connect with professionals, suggesting networking opportunities, crafting engaging outreach messages, and identifying key contacts in your industry.
Examples of Generative AI in Career Development LinkedIn’s AI Tools LinkedIn uses AI to recommend networking opportunities, refine job searches, and generate professional posts.
Chatbots for Career Advice Platforms like Jobscan offer AIdriven resume feedback, keyword optimization, and job-matching insights.
Personalized Learning Tools like Coursera and Udemy use AI to suggest career-building courses based on individual interests and market demand.
When Crafting Prompts for AI, clarity and specificity are key, vague requests can lead to unpredictable results. AI responds best when given context, constraints, or examples to follow, ensuring the output aligns with your expectations. Experimenting with different wording or structure can refine results, making the AI an even more useful tool. *Never put your personal information into an AI prompt* Things to Be Aware of When Using AI for Career Development - Use it strategically and keep in mind: 1.
Bias in AI Algorithms – AI models rely on data, and if the data contains biases, the recommendations may be skewed. Always review AI-generated suggestions critically and ensure they align with your goals.
2. Privacy and Data Security – AI-powered platforms often require access to personal information. Be mindful of what you share and ensure you’re using reputable services with strong privacy protections.
3. Over-Reliance on AI – While AI can enhance job searching, it should supplement—not replace—your own judgment, networking efforts, and personal branding.
4. AI Limitations – Generative AI models generate content based on existing data, which may not always be accurate or up to date. Always verify information before relying on AI-generated career advice.
5. Human Touch Matters – Personal connections, creativity, and soft skills are invaluable. AI is a tool, but human interaction and authenticity remain key factors in career success.
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Career Goals:
Pathway to Achieve Goals:
Personal To Do List:
Notes:
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UW CAREER SERVICES uwyo.edu/aces/uwyo-career-services/students.html
Advising, Career, & Exploratory Studies Center (ACES) Contact us if you are in the following colleges: College of Arts & Sciences, College of Education, and College of Health Sciences 307-766-2398 | aces@uwyo.edu | uwyo.edu/aces/career-services College of Agriculture, Life Sciences, & Natural Resources 307-766-4135 | uwyo_ag@uwyo.edu uwyo.edu/uwag/students/career-internship-resources.html College of Business Peter M. & Paula Green Johnson Student Success Center 307-766-8249 | success@uwyo.edu | careers.uwyo.edu/channels/student College of Engineering & Physical Sciences Susan McCormack Center for Student Success 307-766-4253 | cepscareerservices@uwyo.edu uwyo.edu/ceps/resources/studentservices/jobs/students.html Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources 307-766-5080 | haub.school@uwyo.edu | haubcareers.uwyo.edu Honors College 307-766-4110 | honors@uwyo.edu | uwyo.edu/honors/advising School of Energy Resources 307-766-6879 | seracad@uwyo.edu | uwyo.edu/ser/advising-career-center
2025 Edition