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Career Resource Manual2015-2016

http://hnicareers.com

Table Contentsof

Letter From the Director of Engineering Professional Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2A College Timeline: How to Plan for Career Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

RESUMES & COVER LETTERSResumes 101 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Transferable Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5How to Write Effective Bulleted Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Resume Power Verbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Resume Rubric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Sample Resumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Global Experience Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Curriculum Vitae (CV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Resume vs . CV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Sample Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

NETWORKING, PROFESSIONALISM & CAREER FAIRSNetwork Your Way to a Job . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Social Networking Websites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Your 60-Second Commercial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

INTERVIEWSHow to Succeed in a Professional Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Sample Interview Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Attire for the Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

GAINING EXPERIENCECooperative Education and Internship Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Consider Doing a Coop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Make an Impact at Your Internship or Full-Time Job . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Don’t Forget the Small Companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

NAVIGATING JOB OFFERS & POST-COLLEGE SUCCESSNegotiating the Job Offer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Graduate School for Engineers—Factors to Consider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Engineering Professional

Development

Career Resource Manual

2015-2016

The University of Iowa

The University of Iowa prohibits discrimination in employment and in its educational programs and activities on the basis of race, national origin, color, creed, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preference . The University also affirms its commitment to providing equal opportunities and equal access to University facilities . For additional information on nondiscrimination policies, contact the Coordinator of Title IX, Section 504, and the ADA in the Office of Affirmative Action, (319) 335-0705 (voice) and (319) 335-0697 (text), 202 Jessup Hall, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242-1316 .

ADVERTISER INDEX

DuPont Industrial Biosciences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35ESCO Automation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Gilbane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31HNI Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front CoverPure Michigan Talent Connect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26Rockwell Collins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

For information on advertising in this Manual, call (630) 457-1412

Greetings College of Engineering Students!

As we kick off another exciting and challenging year, I encourage all of you to continually think about ways to enhance your education—through co-ops and internships, research, study abroad, volunteering, leadership experi-ences, clubs and organizations and other extracurricular activities. You ARE our next generation of leaders and problem solvers. The more you have developed your technical and transferable skills, the more competitive you will become as you begin your search for full-time employment and the quicker you’ll be able to make a difference in an organization. There are three points I want you to keep in mind as you plan for your career.

You’re not in this alone. Utilize a variety of resources including our career resource manual which will serve as a valuable tool to guide you through this lifelong process. Take advantage of your existing network and seek out ways to make further connections. Meet with professional staff in the College of Engineering to assist you through all stages of the career development process, including: • Career Exploration and Coaching • Resume and Cover Letter Building • Interviewing Preparation • Job/Internship Search Strategies • Job Offer Evaluation and Negotiation

It’s up to you to take ownership of your career. Take advantage of all the opportunities you can. Utilize the University’s on-line recruiting system, Hireahawk.com, to post your resume, search for positions, research compa-nies and apply for on-campus interviews. Attend the fall and spring engineering career fairs, employer presentations and networking events and all of the other career related workshops and seminars you can. Stop by the Student Development Center in 3124 SC to make an individual appointment or drop by for a quick resume review with a Peer Advisor. The opportunities are out there but it’s up to you to be proactive.

Dream big but be flexible. In this time of constant transition and change, students who can shift their plans to the conditions of the job market will have less stress and more success. Talk with companies you’ve never heard of and explore careers you’ve never considered. You might be surprised at what you find and where it leads you.

You’ve worked hard to get where you are; make it another great year!

Best Wishes,

Kelli DelfosseDirector, Engineering Professional Development

3124 Seamans Center for the Engineering Arts & Sciences www.engineering.uiowa.edu/epd

Letter from the Director

www .engineering .uiowa .edu/epd 3

A College TimelineHow to Plan for Career Success

First-Year—Question ❑ Explore your interests and abilities through academic

courses

❑ Utilize self-assessment tools both online and through the Student Development Center and Pomerantz Career Center

❑ Consider volunteer positions to help you build your resume and broaden your experience

❑ Collect information on internships, cooperative education and other paid work experiences

❑ Learn about any cooperative education or internship programs offered through Engineering Professional Development

❑ Join university organizations that will offer you leadership roles in the future

❑ Attend the fall and spring Engineering Career Fairs to gather information on potential careers and employers

❑ Familiarize yourself with the services and resources avail-able through Engineering Professional Development

❑ Visit each social media profile you have, and either edit your content or your privacy settings

❑ Explore the resources on the Engineering Professional Development website

❑ Attend a resume workshop and create a first draft of your resume

❑ Register for the university’s online recruiting system, Hireahawk

Sophomores—Research ❑ Choose a major that you will enjoy studying

❑ Obtain an internship/field experience or other experience-based education

❑ Take on more responsibilities in extracurricular activities

❑ Explore at least three career options available to you through your major

❑ Attend ALL job fairs and employer information sessions that relate to your major

❑ Identify organizations and associations in your interest areas for shadowing opportunities

Juniors—Making Decisions ❑ Complete at least five informational interviews in careers

you want to explore

❑ Shadow several professionals in your field of interest

❑ Find out more about career opportunities related to your major

❑ Attend job fairs and employer information sessions that relate to your interests

❑ Narrow your career interest areas

❑ Research potential organizations

❑ Talk to recent graduates in your major about the job market and potential employers .

❑ Obtain an internship or other practical career experience

❑ Meet with Engineering Professional Development to have your resume updated

❑ Participate in seminars or workshops to learn more about job search strategies such as networking and interviewing skills

Seniors—Job Search ❑ Stay up-to-date with the Engineering Professional

Development calendar and participate in on-campus recruiting activities

❑ Participate in interviewing skills seminars/workshops or a mock interview program

❑ Develop a list of prospective employers with contact names and addresses from organi zations you are interested in pursuing

❑ Determine your career-related strengths and skills; deter-mine what you have to offer an employer

❑ Meet with Engineering Professional Development to have your updated resume reviewed

❑ Visit job listing websites

❑ Draft a cover letter that can be adapted for a variety of employers and have it reviewed

❑ Research information on realistic salary expectations

❑ Go on employment interviews, evaluate job offers and accept one!

Adapted with permission from Career Services at Virginia Tech.

www.engineering.uiowa.edu/epd

4 Engineering Professional Development

Resumes and Cover Letters

Purpose • The purpose of a resume is to effectively communicate your

potential and to obtain an interview for an internship or job . • Your resume is an advertising tool that tells employers what you

can do in their field, what you have done that relates to the job they would need you to do, and your qualifications for the job .

• Your resume advertises how you can help employers solve their problems .

• There is not one “right way” to put together a resume; many different styles can be effective .

• A sure way to know if your resume is effective is whether or not it is getting you interviews .

Guidelines • Keep your resume to one page; include only that which is

relevant to the position . • Tailor the resume to fit each position to which you apply—

it is not effective to create one resume and use it for all opportunities .

• Find out what is important to each employer by researching their website and job descriptions .

• Create a skills or capabilities section that contains important “keywords” related to the position .

• Use action verbs to describe your experiences and achievements .

Research ToolsUse the following tools to research job descriptions and to explore industries: • ONET, http://online.onetcenter.org, is a great resource to

find occupation(s) and review typical tasks . • OOH, www.bls.gov/ooh, lists hundreds of occupations and

describe What They Do, Work Environment, How to Become One, Pay, and more .

Styles • Resume styles focus on the order and the way information is

placed and presented on your resume . • Resumes typically fit one of three styles: chronological, func-

tional, combination . • Choosing the right style comes down to two factors:

1 . The amount, consistency, and depth of work experience you have accumulated so far in your career field and; 2 . How well the job you seek is aligned with your past work experience .

Chronological resumes present your job-related experiences in reverse chronological date order (most recent listed first and then going backwards in time) . Consider using this style if you have an established career direction and you are continuing on the same or similar career path .

Functional resumes group your skills and experiences together based on job-related functional areas . Place your experience statements together beneath job-related functional areas . A chronological listing of employment history should also be included . Consider using this style if you are changing career direction or if you have skill sets from past experiences that may not be directly related .

Combination resumes bring relevant work experience/ history to the forefront by breaking the experience/work history in to two sections: “Related” and “Other/Additional .” The combination resume generally starts with a functional resume format that allows the reader to see your skills, accomplishments, and qualifications . It first lets the reader see the experience you have that is related to the job opening, then lets the potential employer look at your work history . This style allows the reader to first match your qualifica-tions against the needs of the job opening, and then gives the reader a sense of where the accomplishments took place .

Content & Format • Content deals with the actual information you have included

on your resume regarding your skills, qualifications, experi-ence, and achievements .

• Format deals with the layout of your resume; margins, font type and spacing .

• Both are important because they will impact the employers ability to easily read your resume .

Objective Statements • There are mixed opinions about the value of including an

objective on a resume . • All agree that an objective is a waste of space if it is too general

or simply states that the job fits your professional goals . • A tailored objective demonstrates that you understand the

needs of the position and allows you to highlight relevant strengths and experiences .

• A well-written objective statement includes; job title, industry, what you want to do and highlights key relevant skills .

Resume Writing Pitfalls • Too long. Keep it to one page . • Typos/errors. Suggests carelessness . Have two people proof-

read your resume . Don’t rely on spell-check . • Hard to read. Use quality paper on a laser printer, plain type-

face, no smaller than 10-12 point font . • Too verbose. Do not use complete sentences or paragraphs .

A, An and The can be left out . • Too sparse. Give more than the bare essentials when

describing related experience . • Irrelevant info. Customize your resume to each position .

Emphasize only relevant experiences . Do not include personal information .

• Too generic. The employer needs to feel that you are inter-ested in that particular position with his or her company .

• Boring. Use action verbs to describe your experiences and avoid repeating words .

• Too modest . Put your best foot forward without misrepresen-tation, falsification or arrogance .

Adapted with permission from East Carolina University’s 2013-2014 Career Resource Guide .

Resumes 101

A resume is a document that summarizes and highlights your job-related skills, education, experiences, and activities . Getting a job or internship is a sales process; you are both the product and the salesperson, and the resume is your advertisement which clearly reflects your abilities and qualifications . The purpose of most resumes is to obtain an interview for an internship or job . College and graduate

admissions offices and scholarship programs may also request a resume during the application process . An employer spends an average of 15 to 20 seconds reviewing a resume . Make your first impression a good one .


If you’re wondering what skills you have that would interest a potential employer, think about your transferable skills in addi-tion to carefully reviewing your coursework, work and project

history, campus and community involvement, leadership and professional affiliation activities, sports involvement, language and travel, etc .

You may still have a difficult time seeing how the skills you learned in college will transfer to the workplace . Keep in mind that you’ve been acquiring skills since childhood . Whether learning the value of teamwork by playing sports, developing editing skills working on your high school newspaper or developing countless skills while completing your college coursework, each of your experiences has laid the groundwork for building additional skills .

WHAT ARE TRANSFERABLE SKILLS? A transferable skill is a “portable skill” that you deliberately (or inadvertently, if you haven’t identified them yet) take with you to other life experiences .

Your transferable skills are often:

• acquired through a class (e .g ., an English major who is taught technical writing)

• acquired through experience (e .g ., the student government representative who develops strong motivation and consensus building skills)

Transferable skills supplement your degree . They provide an employer concrete evidence of your readiness and qualifications for a position . Identify your transferable skills and communicate them to potential employers to increase your success during the job search .

Remember that it is impossible to complete a college degree without acquiring transferable skills . Campus and community activities, class projects and assignments, athletic activities, internships and summer/part-time jobs have provided you with countless experi-ences where you’ve acquired a range of skills—many that you may take for granted .

IDENTIFYING TRANSFERABLE SKILLS While very closely related (and with some overlap), transferable skills can be divided into three subsets:

• Working With People • Working With Things

• Working With Data/Information

For example, some transferable skills can be used in every work-place setting (e .g ., organizing or public speaking) while some are more applicable to specific settings (e .g ., drafting or accounting) .

The following are examples of skills often acquired through the class-room, jobs, athletics and other activities . Use these examples to help you develop your own list of the transferable skills you’ve acquired .

Work With PeopleSell • Train • Mentor • Teach • Supervise •Organize • Solicit • Motivate• Mediate • Negotiate • Advise • Delegate • Entertaining • Represent

Work With ThingsRepair • Assemble • Design • Operate • Drive • Maintain • Construct • Build • Sketch• Utilize• Create • Engineer • Process• Troubleshooting

Work With Data/InformationWrite • Edit • Account • Work with spreadsheets • Research • Compute • Collect • Audit • Analyze • Forecast • Budget • Calculate • Testing

EASY STEPS TO IDENTIFY YOUR TRANSFERABLE SKILLS Now that you know what transferable skills are, let’s put together a list of your transferable skills . You may want to work with a career coach to help you identify as many transferable skills as possible .

Step 1. Make a list of every job title you’ve held (part-time, full-time and internships), along with volunteer, sports and other affiliations since starting college . Be sure to record officer positions and other leadership roles .

Step 2. Using your transcript, list the classes in your major field of study along with foundation courses . Include electives that may be related to your employment interests .

Step 3. For each job title, campus activity and class you’ve just recorded, write a sentence and then underline the action taken . Avoid stating that you learned or gained experience in any skill . Instead, present your skill more directly as a verifiable qualification .

“While working for Jones Engineering, performed 3D modeling and drafting.”

NOT “While working for Jones Engineering, I gained experience in 3D modeling and drafting.”

“As a member of the Caribbean Students Association, developed and coordinated the marketing of club events.”

NOT “As a member of the Caribbean Students Association, I learned how to market events.”

Step 4. Make a list of the skills/experiences you’ve identified for future reference during your job search .

USE TRANSFERABLE SKILLS IN THE JOB SEARCH Your success in finding the position right for you will depend on your ability to showcase your innate talents and skills . You also will need to demonstrate how you can apply these skills at an employer’s place of business . Consult with Engineering Professional Development to help you further identify relevant transferable skills and incorporate them on your resume and during your interviews . During each interview, be sure to emphasize only those skills that would be of particular interest to a specific employer .

Transferable skills are the foundation upon which you will build additional, more complex skills as your career unfolds . Start making your list of skills and you’ll discover that you have more to offer than you realized!


Transferable SkillsResumes and Cover Letters



Transferable Skills (continued)As you begin your job search or consider careers that would be right for you, it is important to know what you are good at and what you enjoy doing . Over the years, you have developed many skills from coursework, extracurricular activities, internships, jobs and your total life experiences . If you’ve researched, written, edited and presented papers for classes, you’ve used skills that are not limited to any one academic discipline or knowledge area but are transferable to many occupations . A prospective employer expects you to apply the skills you have learned through your studies, work, and life experiences to the work environment .

What Skills and Qualities Are Important to Employers?

According to the 2013 National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Job Outlook Survey, the top 10 qualities/skills employers seek are transferable skills:

1 . Ability to verbally communicate . 2 . Ability to work in a team structure . 3 . Ability to make decisions and solve problems . 4 . Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work . 5 . Ability to obtain and process information .

6 . Ability to analyze quantitative data . 7 . Technical knowledge related to the job . 8 . Proficiency with computer software programs . 9 . Ability to create and/or edit written reports . 10 . Ability to sell or influence others .

Which of the top ten skills do you excel in? How have you demonstrated these? How can you develop them further?

Human Relations Design & Planning

Attend to the social, physical or mental needs of people Imagine the future, develop a process for creating it

being sensitive anticipate problems counsel create images advocate design programs coach display providing care brainstorming new ideas convey feelings improvise empathize compose interpersonal skills think visually facilitating group process anticipating consequences of action active listening conceptualize motivate creating images

Communication Organization, Management Research & Planning

Exchange, transmission and Direct and guide a group inexpression of knowledge and ideas completing tasks and attaining goals The search for specific knowledge

speak effectivelywrite conciselylisten attentivelyexpress ideasfacilitate discussionprovide appropriate feedbacknegotiateperceive nonverbal messagespersuadedescribe feelingsintervieweditsummarizepromotework in a teammake presentationsthink on one’s feetdeal with public

initiate new ideasmake decisionsleadsolve problemsmeet deadlinessupervisemotivatecoordinate tasksassume responsibilityset prioritiesteachinterpret policymediaterecruitresolve conflictorganizedetermine policygive directions

set goalsanalyze ideasanalyze datadefine needsinvestigateread for informationgather informationformulate hypothesescalculate and comparingdevelop theoryobserveidentify resourcesoutliningcreate ideasidentify resourcescritical thinkingpredict and forecastingsolve problems




Describe your “duties” or “responsibilities” in an effective manner can be a daunting task . This process can be simplified by breaking the tasks into three distinctive components:Goal: The objective or purpose of the task .Effect: The outcome or result of the task .Success: The benefit of the task and how the contribution positively impacted the organization .

Consider the following task: Answered phones . Now, consider enhancing the statement by applying the Goal, Effects and Success process .Goal: To answer the phone and direct to appropriate staff .Effect: Answer the phone quickly and efficiently .Success: Minimized the amount of time a caller had to wait on the phone .Revised Statement: Directed callers to appropriate staff quickly and efficiently, minimizing caller wait time .

Time to practice! Describe one task using the Goal, Effect and Success process .Goal: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Effect: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Success: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Resume Content – Suggested Section Headings

OBJECTIVE

JOB OBJECTIVE

TEACHING OBJECTIVE

CAREER OBJECTIVE

PROFESSIONAL OBJECTIVE

POSITION DESIRED

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

EDUCATION

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

EDUCATIONAL PREPARATION

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

ACADEMIC TRAINING

SPECIAL TRAINING

CERTIFICATION

ENDORSEMENTS

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

STUDENT TEACHING EXPERIENCE

PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

COACHING EXPERIENCE

EXPERIENCE SUMMARY

EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUNDOTHER WORKADDITIONAL EXPERIENCEPART TIME & SUMMER WORK

EXPERIENCEVOLUNTEER ACTIVITIESRELATED ACTIVITIESCIVIC ACTIVITIESPROFESSIONAL & COMMUNITY

ACTIVITIESCOMMUNITY & OTHER ACTIVITIESCOLLEGE ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES & DISTINCTIONSSPECIAL HONORSCOLLEGE DISTINCTIONSHONORS & DISTINCTIONSHONORS/AWARDSMEMBERSHIPSPROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPSPROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONSPROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONSSPECIAL TALENTSLEISURE ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL SKILLS

INTERESTS

TRAVEL ABROAD

TRAVEL

FOREIGN LANGUAGE SKILLS

LANGUAGE COMPETENCIES

MILITARY SERVICE

COMPUTER HARDWARE/SOFTWARE COMPUTER LANGUAGE SKILLS

EXHIBITS

PUBLICATIONS

CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS

PRESENTATIONS

PUBLIC SPEAKING

CONFERENCES ATTENDED

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

EDUCATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

ACHIEVEMENTS

CAREER ACHIEVEMENTS

EMPLOYMENT

AREAS OF KNOWLEDGE

AREAS OF EXPERIENCE

How to Write Effective Bulleted Statements





Resume Power VerbsFundraising Public Accounting Leadership Writing Craft/ Innovating Languageresearch Relations record create conceive Artisan create translateanalyze assess assess lead construct design modify interpretstrategize prepare audit encourage craft create change lectureprogram coordinate prepare manage integrate build upgrade conversedevelop present maintain organize interpret entertain improve negotiatecontact negotiate forecast compare capture perform design compareinquire publicize calculate inspire abstract draw activate understandinform strengthen estimate represent express render restructure comprehendmotivate promote figure govern inform illustrate establish proficiencydirect handle appraise direct summarize compose stimulate fluencypersuade participate examine advise conclude construct implement teachmonitor facilitate measure conceive transform tutorcoordinate troubleshoot verify choreograph

Research & Human Finance Analysis Editing Consulting Teaching PerformingDevelopment Resources analyze assess review troubleshoot educate createidentify assess invest observe analyze problem solve tutor presentevaluate analyze budget review check assess stimulate playreview recruit inventory dissect compare assist inform interpretassess survey evaluate interpret comment arrange instruct actcompare screen appraise discern correct guide facilitate singanalyze interview construct conceptualize rewrite counsel awaken dancecritique select develop discover revise survey explore performexplain train acquire infer rework serve advise modelprepare mediate deploy illuminate amend contribute counsel readrecommend appraise manage clarify improve motivate entertain inspireconclude coordinate project quantify initiate train amusedetermine align qualify investigate conclude advise read

Program Information Management/ Design Technical Selling Organizing/ Marketing Development appraise Supervision organize conceptualize inform Logistics reviewanalyze analyze coordinate explore design educate classify assessdesign inventory facilitate formulate troubleshoot persuade organize surveyconstruct structure plan sketch inspect provide assist analyzedevelop design schedule draw locate assist maintain quantifyprepare categorize delegate draft edit serve liaison identifystrategize document mediate layout analyze trade assist announcecoordinate process evaluate create implement vend support promoteformulate manage strategize plan construct handle arrange advertiserecommend program develop style modify present systematize advancepersuade link listen pattern operate sell schedule boostimplement coordinate consult build convince coordinate improvemonitor organize monitor display streamline simplify

Administration Service/ Persuading Mechanical Investigating Counseling/monitor Hospitality present analyze pursue Healingtrack serve articulate design interrogate listenassess assist clarify construct question sensecoordinate troubleshoot challenge craft analyze intuitorganize present negotiate troubleshoot intuit assessrequisition maintain inquire create seek analyzeaccess help reason engineer search assistreceive coordinate influence repair probe alignprocess prepare convince manipulate examine coordinateserve welcome arbitrate align explore understandfurnish enhance mediate coordinate inform anticipate reconcile balance facilitate help

Reprinted from Virginia Tech’s 2007-2008 Career Planning Guide.



Resume RubricThe rubric below can be used to score the effectiveness of your resume . Use the rubric to score your resume before meeting with Engineering Professional Development to have your resume critiqued . After your final edits are completed, score the final version of your resume using the rubric .

Student Name: Reviewer:

Resume goal/target industry: Date:

Criteria Excellent (3) Good (2) Poor (1)

Overall Appearance & StyleGoal: To ensure your resume is well-structured and highlights skills, strengths, and experiences that are relevant to the employer/audience.Comments:

SCORE: 3 2 1

• Appropriate use of bold, italics, & underlines to emphasize key points

• Good use of space; not a lot of extra white space

• Fills one page without over crowding• Font style & size is readable• Relevant information appears throughout• Section headings reflect content & content

substantiates headings

• Fills one page but with too much white space

• Some inconsistent fonts & section headings

• Some relevant information throughout• Important information is not clear to

reader or does not stand out• Categories need to be structured

differently to be more effective

• Exceeds one page due to irrelevant information

• Does not fill majority of one page• Font style & size are unreadable and/or

inconsistent• Information not laid out in a clear &

consistent layout• Overall lack of structure

Typos, Grammar & Spelling ErrorsGoal: To ensure your resume is free of errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, or spelling.Comments:

SCORE: 3 2 1

• Free of spelling, punctuation & spacing errors

• Grammar is appropriate & consistent• No personal pronouns present

• Few & minor spelling, punctuation, & spacing errors

• Some personal pronouns

• Resume is hard to understand due to numerous errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar, & spacing

Objective StatementGoal: To ensure your statement is clearly targeted to a specific company, industry, and/or position.Comments:

SCORE: 3 2 1

• Clear & concise• Type of work is clear & targeted• Contains the type of position being

sought• Contains industry and/or company name• Contains skills relevant to the position

• Missing key information• Does not clearly state the position,

industry & relevant skills

• Includes too much or too little information• Does not contain key information

Education SectionGoal: To convey academic qualifications and relevant training and certifications.Comments:

SCORE: 3 2 1

• Entries are in reverse chronological order• Degree is spelled out• Major(s) is indicated• Indicate minor/concentration, if applicable• Graduation month/year are indicated• Course work listed is relevant• Each institution includes: name, location,

& dates• Indicate relevant trainings and/or

certificates• GPA listed is a 3.0 or above

• Degree is abbreviated• Coursework listed is not all relevant• No minor/concentration indicated• Institution is named but abbreviated• Specific department is listed

• Missing institution name and location• Entries are not listed in reverse

chronological order• List start and finish range of graduation

date• Irrelevant or outdated high school

information listed• List institution from which no degrees

were received• Missing degree, major, and/or

concentration

Experience SectionGoal: To highlight your relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments.Comments:

SCORE: 3 2 1

• Organization name, position title, location, & dates are included

• Bullets/SARs begin with strong action verbs, do not repeat, and are in correct verb tense

• Bullets/SARs are concise, direct, & indicate one’s impact/accomplishments

• Results are quantified (#s, $, %, etc.)• Experiences and/or skills are listed in

order of relevance• Bullets/SARs under experiences and/or

skills are listed in order of importance• Use industry specific language &

terminology

• Action verbs are weak• Verb tense is incorrect and/or inconsistent• Verbs repeat frequently• Bullets/SARs are not concise or direct and

do not indicate impact• Does not indicate accomplishments or

results

• Entries do not include organization name, dates, position title, or location

• Bullets are written in complete sentences• Verb tense is incorrect and/or inconsistent

throughout• Bullets/SARs are wordy, vague, do not

indicate one’s impact• Bullets are not listed in order of

importance to the reader• Results are not quantified when

appropriate• Irrelevant or outdated information is listed

Additional SectionsGoal: To demonstrate additional relevant experiences, skills, or accomplishments.Comments:

SCORE: 3 2 1

• Listings are relevant to the target audience

• Listings are concise• Section title is appropriate

• Some listings are relevant• Some listings are concise

• Items are wordy• Items are vague or irrelevant

TOTAL SCORE: Additional Comment(s):





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P

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ente

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and

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Fal

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2-Su

mm

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per

iodi

c le

tters

to f

ourt

h gr

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stud

ents

at W

est L

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ty E

lem

enta

ry S

choo

l

•

Met

with

pen

pal

on

cam

pus

to e

ncou

rage

them

to c

ontin

ue th

eir

educ

atio

n

St

uden

t C

ounc

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d C

lass

Off

icer

, Wes

t L

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ty H

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Scho

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Fal

l 200

8-Sp

ring

201

2

•

Ele

cted

Vic

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esid

ent o

ut o

f 91

stu

dent

s

•

Org

aniz

ed a

nd p

lann

ed m

eetin

gs a

nd s

choo

l eve

nts

• C

olla

bora

ted

with

oth

er c

omm

ittee

s to

org

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hool

dan

ces

Y

outh

Spo

rts

Coa

ch, W

est

Lib

erty

, IA

F

all 2

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Fall

2011

• In

stru

cted

15

elem

enta

ry s

tude

nts

fund

amen

tals

of

flag

foo

tbal

l dur

ing

prac

tices

and

gam

es

•

Com

mun

icat

ed w

ith p

aren

ts r

egar

ding

pra

ctic

e tim

es a

nd g

ame

sche

dule

s

•

Mot

ivat

ed s

tude

nts

to s

tay

focu

sed

duri

ng p

ract

ice

and

gam

es

SKIL

LS

L

angu

ages

• Fl

uent

in E

nglis

h an

d Sp

anis

h

Sample Resumes



Meg

an P

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pp

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: (5

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11-P

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Maj

or:

Ind

ust

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En

gin

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G

PA: X

.XX

/4.0

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pan

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an

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ith

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no

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GPA

: X.X

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inee

rin

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erie

nce

Zero

-En

erg

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elte

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ng

inee

rin

g P

rob

lem

So

lvin

g I N

ove

mb

er-D

ecem

ber

201

1

• R

esea

rch

ed e

ner

gy-

savi

ng

mat

eria

ls a

nd

det

erm

ined

co

st e

ffic

ien

cy

•

Co

nst

ruct

ed p

roto

typ

e o

f a

shel

ter

and

tes

ted

its

abili

ty t

o e

nd

ure

har

sh c

on

di-

tio

ns

Co

oki

e C

oat

ing

Pro

ject

: En

gin

eeri

ng

Pro

ble

m S

olv

ing

I Se

pte

mb

er-O

cto

ber

201

1

• D

esig

n a

nd

imp

lem

ente

d a

co

oki

e an

d c

ho

cola

te c

oat

ing

co

mb

inat

ion

• Ev

alu

ated

th

e ta

ste,

qu

alit

y, n

utr

itio

nal

val

ue,

an

d c

on

sist

ency

of

the

coo

kies

Co

rpo

rate

En

gin

eeri

ng

Inte

rn: P

acke

r En

gin

eeri

ng

, Nap

ervi

lle IL

Sp

rin

g 2

010

•

Dev

elo

ped

an

d c

on

stru

cted

a t

ow

er b

uilt

fro

m b

asic

mat

eria

ls

•

An

alyz

ed t

he

effi

cien

cy o

f th

e n

um

ber

of

spo

kes

on

win

d e

ner

gy

tow

ers

•

Co

mp

iled

pro

ject

s an

d r

epo

rts

usi

ng

Mic

roso

ft W

ord

, Exc

el, a

nd

Au

to C

AD

so

ftw

are

•

Impr

oved

com

mun

icat

ion

and

prof

essi

onal

ski

lls t

hrou

gh P

ower

Poin

t pr

esen

tati

ons

•

Co

llab

ora

ted

wit

h s

ever

al o

ther

inte

rns

and

sta

ff o

n f

ast-

pac

ed p

roje

cts

Lead

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ip E

xper

ien

ceC

amp

Co

un

selo

r: F

ry F

amily

YM

CA

, Nap

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lle, I

L Su

mm

er 2

011-

Pres

ent

•

Sup

ervi

sed

ele

men

tary

ag

ed c

hild

ren

• C

oo

rdin

ated

wit

h f

ive

oth

er c

ou

nse

lors

in o

rgan

izin

g a

ctiv

itie

s, c

raft

s, a

nd

gam

es

• C

erti

fied

fo

r Fi

rst

Aid

an

d C

PR

Edib

le A

rran

gem

ents

: Fru

it D

esig

n A

rtis

t (H

olid

ay E

mp

loye

e)

Jan

uar

y 20

06-P

rese

nt

•

Op

erat

ed w

ith

oth

er e

mp

loye

es in

fas

t-le

arn

ing

en

viro

nm

ent,

cre

atin

g f

ruit

b

aske

tsG

olf

Co

-Cap

tain

, Nap

ervi

lle C

entr

al H

igh

Sch

oo

l Fa

ll 20

10

• C

oo

per

ated

wit

h c

oac

hes

an

d o

ther

co

-cap

tain

• C

o-o

rgan

ized

tea

m s

oci

al e

ven

ts a

nd

co

mp

etit

ive

mat

ches

•

Rec

eive

d R

ed a

nd

Wh

ile L

ead

ersh

ip a

war

dLi

feg

uar

d a

nd

Sw

im In

stru

cto

r: N

aper

Car

riag

e H

ill, N

aper

ville

, IL

Sum

mer

200

8-20

10

• Su

per

vise

d t

he

safe

ty o

f sw

imm

ers/

Cer

tifi

ed in

Wat

er R

escu

e

• Tr

ain

ed g

rou

ps

of

5-6

elem

enta

ry a

ged

ch

ildre

n b

ased

on

th

eir

swim

leve

l Se

rvic

e C

hai

r: N

atio

nal

Ho

no

rs S

oci

ety

Fall

2010

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rin

g 2

010

•

Ass

iste

d in

org

aniz

ing

fu

nd

rais

ing

eve

nts

• G

ave

pre

sen

tati

on

s an

d s

po

ke o

n b

ehal

f o

f th

e o

rgan

izat

ion

Act

ivit

ies/

Serv

ice

Part

icip

ant

in t

he

Iow

a 24

Ho

urs

Dan

ce M

arat

ho

n

Au

gu

st 2

011-

Pres

ent

Vo

lun

teer

fo

r FI

RST

Tec

h C

hal

len

ge

Feb

ruar

y 20

12M

emb

er o

f th

e W

om

en’s

Iow

a R

ow

ing

Tea

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Au

gu

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ecem

ber

201

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cati

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nive

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City

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Bac

helo

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Sci

ence

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hem

ical

Eng

inee

ring

G

radu

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ay 2

015

•

Cum

ulat

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GPA

X.X

X/4

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Hig

hlan

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omm

unity

Col

lege

Fr

eepo

rt, I

LA

ssoc

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Eng

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ring

Sci

ence

/Ass

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tes

of S

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May

201

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Wor

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iosc

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Ced

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apid

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ay 2

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Pres

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•

Res

earc

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d te

st a

ltern

ate

met

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to p

erfo

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ill f

erm

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tion

step

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s of

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ear)

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Gen

erat

e co

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odel

s fo

r ne

w p

rodu

cts

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Ass

ist i

n eq

uipm

ent d

esig

n pl

anni

ng f

or p

lant

exp

ansi

on p

roje

ct (

proj

ect v

alue

of

$10

mill

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•

Act

as

form

ulat

ion

engi

neer

to tr

oubl

esho

ot c

usto

mer

qua

lity

cont

rol i

ssue

s

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anag

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e lo

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of n

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rodu

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orm

ulat

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• Pe

rfor

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ata

colle

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d tr

oubl

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otin

g on

opt

ical

par

ticle

siz

e pr

obe

in g

ranu

latio

n di

visi

on

(est

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of

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,000

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obe

valu

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Impl

emen

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ital i

mpr

ovem

ent p

roje

cts,

incl

udin

g de

sign

, bus

ines

s ap

prov

al, a

nd c

ontr

acto

r co

r-re

spon

denc

e

Hig

hlan

d C

omm

unity

Col

lege

Fr

eepo

rt, I

LM

ath,

Phy

sics

, Che

mis

try,

and

Bio

logy

Tut

or

July

201

0-M

ay 2

012

•

Wor

ked

indi

vidu

ally

and

with

gro

ups

of s

tude

nts

to h

elp

them

und

erst

and

clas

s m

ater

ial

Car

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Serv

ices

/Stu

dent

Res

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es S

tude

nt A

ssis

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Ju

ly 2

010-

May

201

2

• C

omm

unic

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with

pub

lic v

ia te

leph

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and

emai

l to

solv

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oble

ms

and

exec

ute

task

s

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rain

ed n

ew d

epar

tmen

t stu

dent

wor

kers

in jo

b re

quir

emen

ts a

nd g

uidi

ng to

urs

Che

mis

try

Lab

Ass

ista

nt

Aug

ust 2

011-

May

201

2

• C

reat

ed a

nd u

pdat

ed a

run

ning

inve

ntor

y of

che

mic

als

and

equi

pmen

t in

stoc

k

• R

esea

rche

d an

d ex

ecut

ed s

afe

disp

osal

of

unne

cess

ary

or u

nsaf

e ch

emic

al c

ompo

unds

Pro

ject

Exp

erie

nce

Hig

hlan

d C

omm

unity

Col

lege

Hon

ors

Prog

ram

L-T

yros

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Hyd

roxy

lase

Ext

ract

ion

Exp

erim

ent

In

stru

ctor

Joh

n Su

lliva

n

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xtra

cted

and

isol

ated

L-t

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hydr

oxyl

ase

from

the

adre

nal g

land

s of

she

ep a

nd s

win

e

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sed

thin

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hrom

atog

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con

firm

res

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Rai

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Con

stru

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stru

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Ala

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onst

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min

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un p

ower

ed b

y m

ultip

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Dop

amin

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chlo

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Abs

orpt

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Exp

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Inst

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abso

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am C

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in

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unity

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lege

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LSt

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nate

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resi

dent

, Tre

asur

er

2010

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Phi

The

ta K

appa

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resi

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Off

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Boy

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201

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Sample Resumes


Josh

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The

Uni

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Fall

2010

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rese

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lect

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St

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usin

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Mem

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Test

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Pro

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Prof

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Est

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moc

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ded

exce

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cus

tom

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anag

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mpl

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pert

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Cou

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lsen

(555

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5-55

55

cour

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owa.

edu

Perm

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ress

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nive

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Add

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:

123

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Sample Resumes



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Sample Resumes


Global Experience Skills

Examples of skills, identified by employers, you might gain through a global experience. Taken from (Hart, 2006) and (Gardner, Steglitz & Gross, 2009): • Teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate with others in a diverse setting . • Ability to apply knowledge in a real world setting . • Ability to communicate effectively . • An understanding of how global issues affect the future . • A sense of integrity and ethical behavior . • An understanding of cultural values and traditions of the US and other countries . • Adapting to new situations . • Ability to work independently . • Undertaking tasks that are unfamiliar .

How Do I Incorporate My International Experience on My Resume? This will vary based on the kind of international experience you had and where you feel your experience fits best . If you studied abroad or took classes at a foreign university, one option is to include your experience in the education section of your resume . Here is an example:

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering May 2015The University of Iowa, College of Engineering, Iowa City, IA GPA:3 .2

Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark June 2013 - July 2013 • Completed summer unit operations lab . • Conducted seven experiments . • Collaborated with students of various cultures to create and present on Danish Culture . • Took excursions to world-leading chemical production site to see theories learned put into practice .

However, you may find it more beneficial to put your experience under work experience or volunteer experience . An example would be:

Intern, Airbus, Hamburg, Germany September 2012 – January 2013 • Translated technical reports from German to English in order for them to be used in other countries’

headquarter offices . • Collaborated with five other team members to improve the wind turbine of the A380 model . • Communicated with clients in seven other countries, learning cultural customs and language skills . • Worked independently to design a propeller for the A350 models .

How Can I Include My Study Abroad Experience in a Cover Letter?If you completed an internship or volunteer opportunity abroad you may want to put your experience under your related experience or volun-teering section .

Concisely describe the skills you gained from your international experience and how those skills relate to the position you are applying for . You do not want to repeat exactly what is on your resume . You should highlight your experience while enticing the interviewer to learn more about it .

Let’s say the student spent a summer in Madrid, Spain studying at a Spanish University . This student is now applying for editorial internships because she wants to find a job as a magazine editor after she graduates . This is what she may say in her cover letter:

“During my semester in Madrid, Spain, I studied translation for the first time . I translated literary text and newspaper articles from Spanish to English . This not only improved my Spanish language skills, but also helped me to understand the nuances of my native language . I learned how word choice, sentence structure, and grammar can influence meaning, which will help me with the detail-oriented job of copy editing .”

How Can I Create Answers to Interview Questions?Remember to focus on specific examples, interactions, moments, people or events instead of the value of the overall experience . Have three to five specific examples demonstrating the skills you gained to share .

“Identifying Skills Gained and Articulating Your Experience”



Here are some potential questions that may be asked: • Tell me about yourself . • Describe a personal or professional challenge . • Describe an instance in which you communicated effectively . • How have you asserted yourself under pressure? • Describe an instance in which you used problem solving skills?

Also be prepared to answer questions directly about your experience: • What did you learn about yourself as a result of your international experience? • Why did you choose to study in (country name)? Why was it important to you? • Can you describe a time when you had to change your behavior to accommodate or adjust to different local conditions?

Example Answer: Describe an instance in which you communicated effectively.

“While I was studying abroad in Chile I had the opportunity to volunteer at a bilingual school . While the children in the school could speak basic English, the parents of the students could not speak any English . So, during parent teacher conferences I had to effectively use my Spanish skills to communicate with the parents of my students . This experience enabled me to see how impor-tant word choice, body language, and tone are in communicating and allowed me to learn to communicate differently depending on my audience .”

References:Hart, P . D . (2006, Dec 28) . How should colleges prepare students to succeed in today’s global economy? . The Association of American Colleges and Universities, Retrieved from http://www .aacu .org/leap/documents/Re8097abcombined .pdfGardner, P ., Steglitz, I . & Gross, L . (2009) . Translating study abroad experiences for workplace competencies . The Association of American Colleges and Universities, Retrieved from http://catcher .sandiego .edu/items/cee/Reading7 .SA for Workplace Competency .pdf

Global Experience Skills continued

Reprinted with permission from Virginia Tech’s 2014-2015 Career Planning Guide .

http://www.rockwellcollins.com/careers


Curriculum Vitae (CV)

WHEN WOULD A CURRICULUM VITAE BE USED?If you seek a faculty, research, clinical, or scientific position, you will need a Curriculum Vitae . You may also want to consider this format when in the fields of healthcare, athletic training, education, social work, counseling, psychology, philosophy, anthropology, journalism, or other areas where you may have participated in various applied, “hands-on” experience and training opportunities related to your major field of interest .

A vitae can range from 2 to 12 pages or more, depending on expe-rience, and offers an in-depth look into any and all professional experiences you care to relate to the position you are seeking . For example: Education, Awards and Fellowships, Teaching Experience, Research Experience, Computer/ Technical Skills, Honors, Professional Activities, Presentations, Publications, Professional Memberships, Travel/Cultural Experiences, and others .

You should begin with a heading that includes your name, address, telephone number, and email address . If you plan to move, be sure to provide a way for employers to reach you, such as a family member’s address . If your email account was established through the university, make sure you set up an account that will remain active after you leave school (Always choose an email address that appears professional) .

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED?You’ll need a section for your education that highlights the knowl-edge you have acquired through your university preparation and professional and educational experiences . At a minimum, the Education section should include your university, your degree and major, and when your degree was earned or is expected, as well as any certifications or credentials you have earned or expect to earn . Other education-related information which can be included is: GPA, academic minor (or second major), and related course-work (remember to include those courses in which your potential employer will be most interested .

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?Your Experience section is key and it usually is listed directly following Education . Whatever order you choose for your vitae, you should use the Experience section to highlight your work-related accomplishments, whether they are paid or unpaid . Emphasize the areas related to the position you are seeking . For example, if you are applying to work in a hospital setting, you may identify a section called “Clinical Experience” or “Hospital Experience .”

Quantify and qualify what you did—for example, in a clinical posi-tion, such as a Physician’s Assistant, include how many rotations you completed . You can also include experience gained through participation in organizations and associations in a “Professional Memberships” section, or “Committee and Administrative Experience” section, as long as you can relate the experience to the job for which you are applying .

In Developing a Vitae You Should: • Remember that vitae vary in format and style—choose

one that suits you and emphasizes your knowledge, skills, strengths, and abilities .

• Pay careful attention to spelling, punctuation, grammar and style .

• Organize information in a logical fashion .

• Keep descriptions clear and thorough, yet concise .

• Use a simple, easy-to-read font .

• Clearly number pages, with your name at the top of each . Do not print pages back-to-back .

• Use good-quality white or off-white bond paper .


FIRST THINGS FIRST: WHAT IS A CURRICULUM VITAE?The word “vitae” is derived from the Latin language meaning “life .” Thus, the purpose of completing “vitae” are to describe people’s lives, their “courses of life, your “course of life,” their professional lives .

A Curriculum Vitae is a marketing tool . It is created for the purpose of pursuing career and educational goals . A vitae should thoroughly describe your experiences and accomplishments in a way that best demonstrates your qualifications for the type of position you are seeking .

Comparison of CV vs. Resume

Curriculum Vitae

• Overview of academic accomplishments

• Primarily used for academic positions

• Should be frequently updated

• Generally several pages in length

• Constructs a scholarly identity

Resume

• Highlights job-related skills, education, experiences and activities

• Primarily used for non-academic positions

• Should be targeted and 1-2 pages

• Purpose is to obtain an interview

• Constructs a professional identity



Resume vs. CVKeshav Basnet

123 Hawkeye Street • Iowa City, IA 52246 • [email protected] • (319) 123-4321

Education: PhD Civil Engineering (Hydraulics & Water Resources) Graduating August 2015 The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA GPA: X.XX/4.00 MS Civil Engineering (Hydraulics) December 2010 University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY GPA: X.XX/4.00 BE Civil Engineering (Structures) August 2007 Pokhara University, Pokhara, Nepal GPA: X.XX/4.00

Relevant Experience: Research Assistant January 2011-Present IIHR – Hydroscience & Engineering, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA • Recommended new snow fence design based on 2D RANS numerical simulations and field measurements—

able to reduce snow accumulation length towards the road by about 30% compared to the conventional one • Developed a real-time webcam system to monitor snow deposits around snow fences, coordinated with Iowa

DOT supervisors, installed it at the field, and tested it’s ability during the adverse weather conditions • Prepared presentation slides and wrote reports for the Iowa DOT - Snow Drifting Project • Performed 3D large eddy simulations to investigate fundamental flow physics around solid/porous barriers Research Assistant January 2010-December 2010 University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY • Carried out large-scale experiments in a recirculating water channel to investigate flow around cylinders

resembling hydraulic structures using Large Scale Particle Image Velocimetry (LSPIV) method • Analyzed methods and recommended procedures for the use of LSPIV technique to capture the wake vortices Civil Engineer January 2008-August 2009 Care Village Project, Community Support Group, Pokhara, Nepal • Prepared Contour Map, Base Map, and Master plan after preliminary and detailed survey of proposed land • Designed and prepared drawing of buildings, roads, and water supply structures using AutoCAD Junior Engineer November 1998-August 2009 Pokhara Sub-Metropolitan City Office, Pokhara, Nepal • Performed design, drawing, cost estimate, valuation, and site supervision during construction of buildings,

roads, storm water drainage, irrigation canal systems, river training, and water supply works • Prepared Land Use Maps using GIS Arcview for Pokhara Environmental Improvement Project

Teaching Experience: Teaching Assistant August 2011-Present The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA • Principles of Hydraulics and Hydrology (includes a project for HEC-RAS & HEC-HMS) • Experimental Method in Fluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer • Engineering Problem Solving I

Technical Skills: • CFD modeling (both RANS & LES): LES code, STAR-CCM+, Ansys Fluent, ICEM-CFD, Abaqus • Hydraulic modeling: HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS • Visualization tools: Tecplot, GIS Arcview • Programming tools: FORTRAN, Matlab • Drawing tool: AutoCAD • Experimental methods: RTK survey, Total station, LSPIV • High performance computing in Linux

Resume

KESHAV BASNET Page 2

• Developed a real-time webcam system to monitor snow deposits around snow fences, installed at the field coordinating with Iowa DOT supervisors, and tested it’s ability during the adverse weather conditions

• Applied different surveying tools (e.g., Total Station, LSPIV, RTK survey) during the field measurements to accurately measure snow profiles

• Proposed, developed protocols and tested Close Range Photogrammetry technique to track the temporal evolution of snow deposits

• Prepared presentation slides and wrote reports for the Iowa DOT - Snow Drifting ProjectUniversity of Wyoming, Laramie, WYResearch Assistant January 2010-December 2010 • Carried out large-scale experiments in a recirculating water channel to investigate flow

around various sizes of cylinders using Large-Scale Particle Image Velocimetry (LSPIV) • Performed collection, analysis, and post processing of experimental data • Analyzed methods and recommended procedures for the use of LSPIV technique to capture

the wake vorticesCare Village Project, Community Support Group, Pokhara, NepalCivil Engineer January 2008-August 2009 • Conducted preliminary and detailed survey of the proposed land • Prepared Contour Map, Base Map, and Master plan • Designed and prepared drawing using AutoCAD, detailed cost estimates, and valuation of

buildings, roads, water supply and sanitation structuresPokhara Sub-Metropolitan City Office, Pokhara, NepalJunior Engineer July 2003-August 2009 • Utilized Land Use Maps for decision making processes • Performed design, drawing - using AutoCAD, estimate, and valuation of buildings, roads,

storm water drainage, irrigation canal systems, river training, and water supply works • Consulted regularly with consumer committees and contractors

TEACHING EXPERIENCEThe University of Iowa, Iowa City, IATeaching Assistant August 2011-Present • Supported faculty in teaching Principles of Hydraulics and Hydrology, Experimental Method

in Fluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer, Engineering Problem Solving I and Statics • Demonstrated lab experiments and hydraulic models for course projects and guided students

during their experiments and hydraulic modeling (HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS) • Conducted TA office hours to provide support for home works and project reports • Graded all written work including final exam papers

CV Page 2KESHAV BASNET Page 3

TECHNICAL SKILLS • High quality mesh generation: Using both LES code and commercial software

• CFD modeling: Both RANS and Eddy resolving techniques (e.g., Large Eddy Simulations)

• Commercial CFD software: STAR-CCM+, ANSYS FLUENT, ICEM-CFD

• Hydraulic/Hydrologic applications: HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS

• Visualization tool: Tecplot 360

• Drawing tool: AutoCAD

• Geographical Information System: GIS Arcview

• FEA software: Abaqus

• Experimental methods: Total station, RTK survey, LSPIV, DigiMap, Close-range photogrammetry (e.g., ERDAS Imagine, Photoscan)

• Structural applications: SAP 2000, SAP 90

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE & ACTIVITIESNepal Metropolitan Employee Association – Pokhara Unit, Pokhara, NepalPresident May 2008-July 2009

Community Support Group, Pokhara, NepalTechnical Advisor November 2005-December 2007

Free Student Union, Pokhara University, Pokhara, NepalPresident August 2006-August 2007

PUBLICATIONS • Basnet, K., Muste, M., Constantinescu, G., Ho, H., and Xu, H., 2015. Close Range

Photogrammetry for Tracking Drifted Snow Deposits. Submitted to Journal of Cold Regions Science and Technology. Under Review.

• Basnet, K., Constantinescu, G., Muste, M., and Ho, H., 2014. Method to Assess Efficiency and Improve Design of Snow Fences. Journal of Engineering Mechanics. http://ascelibrary.org/doi/abs/10.1061/%28ASCE%29EM.1943-7889.0000871, 04014136.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS • International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research (IAHR) • Nepal Engineering Council, Registered engineer • Nepal Engineers’ Association, General member

CV Page 3

KESHAV BASNET111 Hawkeye Street, Iowa City, IA 52246 - (319) 123-4321 - [email protected]

EDUCATIONThe University of Iowa, Iowa City, IAPhD Civil Engineering (Hydraulics & Water Resources) Graduating August 2015 • GPA: X.XX/4.00 • Dissertation Title: “Flow around Porous Barriers: Fundamental Flow Physics and

Applications” • Award: Graduate College Post-Comprehensive Summer 2015 Research Award

University of Wyoming, Laramie, WYMS Civil Engineering (Hydraulics) December 2010 • GPA: X.XX/4.00 • Thesis Title: “Large-Scale Particle Image Velocimetry for Resolving Unsteady Flow Features

at Cylinders”

Pokhara University, Pokhara, NepalBE Civil Engineering (Structures) August 2007 • GPA: X.XX/4.00 • Project Title: “Structural Analysis of Earthquake Resistant Building using SAP 90”

Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, NepalDiploma Civil Engineering August 1997

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE & PROJECTSThe University of Iowa, Iowa City, IAResearch Assistant January 2011-Present • Investigated how the mean flow and turbulent statistics in the wake of porous barriers

affected by main geometrical parameters (e.g., porosity, bottom gap, hole-size) and main flow variables (e.g., Reynolds number, bed roughness) using 3D Large Eddy Simulations

• Developed a joint experimental and numerical approach to assess the efficiency and improve the design of snow fences

• Generated high quality meshes and performed 2D RANS numerical simulations to investigate wake flow behind porous snow fences

• Validated both LES and RANS models based on experimental data • Illustrated the capabilities of novel methodology by applying it to improve the design of

plastic snow fences that are commonly used in the states of Midwest

CV Page 1


LettersLetters and Email CorrespondenceWhether you use email or regular mail, your correspondence with employers creates an impression and illustrates your communica-tion skills . Always use a business-like tone and professional language . Be sure to adhere to the 3 Cs Rule: all correspondence must be clear, concise, and compelling . You must state very clearly who you are and why you are writing . Your message must be concise and get right to the point . Finally, your goal is to compel your reader to take further action, such as arranging an interview or extending a job offer .

COVER LETTERSWhen sending your resume via email, your email message is your cover letter . A cover letter introduces your resume when you are not there to do so in person . The goal is to persuade the reader to review your resume by providing a brief summary of your qualifications that match the employer’s requirements . (See the samples on page 17 .)

Sample Email Subject Headers• Response to a newspaper ad or internet job posting:

Your Ad for a _______ Your Job Posting on Hotjobs.com

• Networking with employers or following up on referrals: Met You at the Fall Career & Internship Fair Referred by_________

• Canvassing employers to explore potential opportunities: Strong Applicant for Your____Department

Potential Internship Opportunities at ___________

THANK-YOU LETTERS• Make sure to get business cards from all recruiters to ensure the

correct spelling of their names and email addresses .

• Send an email thank-you letter within 24 hours after your interview .

(Subject header: Thank You from ________)

• Your goal is to impress the interviewer with your appreciation and reiterate your qualifications and interest in the position .

• If you met with more than one individual, send personalized thank-you letters to each interviewer . Hiring decisions are often made by consensus, and you will want to impress everyone you met by including something specific that was discussed during your meeting .

Your Present Address (traditional letter only)City, State, ZIP CodeDate

Name of Contact Person (traditional letter only)TitleEmployerStreet AddressCity, State, ZIP Code

Dear Name or HR Manager:

1st Paragraph—Explain why you are writing: you would like to be considered for a position with ______ (specify the employer by name). If responding to an ad or internet posting, mention where you saw the job posted. If following up on the suggestion of a contact person (e.g., an employee or a professor), mention the person by name. Finally, indicate that you are a University of Iowa _______ major, graduating in _________.

2nd Paragraph—Highlight one or two key qualifications from your resume that you think will be of greatest interest to the employer. Explain why you are particularly interested in the employer, location, or type of work. If you have had related experience or specialized training, be sure to point it out. If your G.P.A. is above 3.0, mention it.

3rd Paragraph—Indicate that your resume is attached. Close by asking for an opportunity to set up an interview. If you are willing to call the employer, mention that you will phone within a specified amount of time. Thank the employer for his or her time and attention.

Sincerely,

(Signature)

Type Your Name

Cover Letter—Format

General Email Guidelines The preferred way to correspond with employers is through email . Use the following email guidelines to create a positive impression:

• Use an appropriate subject header for your email (see samples below) .

• Use professional salutations such as “Dear Mr . or Ms .” and be sure to spell his or her name correctly .

• Always take the time to proofread, spell check, and grammar check your message before sending . A poorly written message or one with spelling errors can end your chances of being considered for the job .

• Do not use slang terms, emoticons, overly stylized fonts, graphics, or multi-colored backgrounds .

Adapted with permission from Rutgers University’s 2014-2015 Career & Internship Planning guide .


Hotjobs.com


(Subject Line: Applying for the Communication Internship)

Dear <recruiter’s name>,

In response to your intern posting on the Hireahawk system for a communications intern, I am enclosing my resume. I am currently a junior at the University of Iowa, majoring in communication and economics.

My attached resume outlines the skills I have acquired through my education and work experience. They include:

- Analyzing and managing reporting between employees and customers

- Researching and compiling information to create an exhibit to be put on display for hundreds of people

- Maintaining and updating employee records to ensure compliance with federal regulations

I look forward to meeting you to discuss in more detail how my background and qualifications can contribute to your organization. I can be reached at [email protected] or 732-123-4567 to arrange an interview at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely,Melissa York

Cover Letter—Email

(Note: Ask for a business card at the fair and send a note that afternoon or evening. Subject Line: Thank You for Speaking With Me)

Dear Mr./Ms.___________,

I am writing to follow up on our discussion during the recent ____ (specify the event) Engineering Career Fair at the University of Iowa. I enjoyed speaking with you about the type of positions or field opportunities with _____ (name of organization). Thank you for sharing your insights on the recruiting process and the current needs of your organization.

As we discussed, I will be graduating in _____ (date of graduation) with a degree in _____ (major or majors). In researching your organization, I am particularly interested in _____ (cite 1-2 facts). (Next, highlight one or two qualifications from your resume that you think would be of greatest interest to the employer based on your career & internship fair discussion). My background in _____ (related knowledge, skills, or experience) has helped prepare me for the challenges of the position.

I have attached another copy of my resume for your review. Please let me know if you require any additional information. Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you again soon.

Sincerely,Type Your Name

Career & Internship Fair Follow-up—Email

Lauren Baumann123 Iowa Drive

Any City, IA 12345

Mr. Michael Dover February 17, 2014Executive EditorAmerican Scientist Magazine407 Main StreetBridgeton, NJ 08302

Dear Mr. Dover:

I would like to be considered for the position of technical writer for the American Scientist Magazine. I read about the opening on the American Scientist website.

I have writing experience in several scientific and technical areas. Most recently, my article on acid rain and its impact on fish reproduction appeared in the University’s Extension Bulletin. As a contributing writer for the College of Engineering, I have greatly strengthened my technical, investigative, editing, and organizational skills. I would be happy to send you samples of my writing.

I am enclosing a copy of my resume, which demonstrates my leadership, administrative, organizational, and writing skills. I look forward to hearing from you. You can reach me during the day at 732-716-1299 or at [email protected].

Sincerely,

(Signature)

Lauren Baumann

Cover Letter—Traditional Mail

(Subject Line: Networking Request from a Student)

Dear Mr. Hendrickson:

I obtained your name and contact information from the Hireahawk system. I am interested in setting up an informational interview with you—either by phone or in person—to learn more about your career path since you graduated from the University of Iowa.

I am a senior at the University of Iowa, majoring in journalism and media studies. I am interested in pursuing a career in print or electronic journalism. I have had challenging internships at “W” magazine and MTV. I am well aware of the changes that the field of journalism is undergoing, but I also see many opportunities for creativity and innovation in the future. I want to be part of that future.

I will be in New York next Thursday, October 17; could I speak with you for about 20 minutes? I look forward to meeting you. I am attaching my resume to provide some background information. Thanks in advance for your interest and time.

—Sandra WaltersThe University of Iowa, Class of 2014

Networking—Email


mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


(Subject Line: Thank You for the Interview)

Dear Ms. Atkins:

Thank you for the interview on Monday, March 24, 2014, for the position of quality engineer in the manufacturing division.

I enjoyed talking to you and found the interview most informative. The prospect of joining ABC Product Company is very exciting. My engineering background, combined with my recent internship experience as a design intern, will enable me to become a valuable member of your engineering team.

Please let me know if you require any additional information. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,Arjun Kabir

Note: Do not misuse or overuse LinkedIn when following up after your initial interview. One email message to the interviewer is the best practice.

1st Interview Follow-up—Email

(Subject Line: Accepting Your Offer!)

Dear Ms. Jones:

I am writing to confirm my acceptance of your offer of April 7, 2014.

I am excited about the opportunity of joining Caterpillar. I will do my very best to make a contribution to the company from day one.

As we discussed, my starting date will be June 16, 2014. I understand that I will work at your Peoria headquarters for the first three months and then be assigned to a regional office for a six-month rotation beginning in the fall.

Thanks again for the confidence that you have expressed in me. I look forward to a long and productive career with Caterpillar.

Sincerely,Erica Adams

Accepting an Offer—Email

(Subject Line: Responding to Your Offer)

Dear Mr. Sargeant:

After considerable thought, I have decided not to accept the offer of employment for the expeditor’s position in the procurement department of Super Express Company. This has been a very difficult decision for me because Super Express offers some exciting opportunities. However, I have accepted a position that more closely matches my career objectives.

I appreciate the time you spent with me and the confidence that you expressed in me.

Sincerely,David P. Ortiz

Declining an Offer—Email

(We recommend sending this message about 2 weeks after your initial follow-up)

Dear Ms. Dermott,

As you consider candidates for Bank of America’s financial analyst position, I would like to reaffirm my interest in contributing to your organization’s growth.

Following up on my interview on June 30, I believe my economics background and internship experience at Merrill Lynch has prepared me to become a productive member of your audit department. I am confident that my student leadership at Rutgers would facilitate my ability to take charge of projects quickly and responsibly.

Again, thank you for your continued interest in my candidacy for your financial analyst position. I look forward to speaking with you to further discuss the contributions I could make to Bank of America.

Jessica Lopez University of Iowa

2nd Interview Follow-up—Email




to a

Job

Your Way

Many people use the classified ads as their sole job

search technique. Unfortunately, statis-tics show that only 10% to 20% of jobs

are ever published—which means that 80% to 90% of jobs

remain hidden in the job market. For this reason, networking remains the number

one job search strategy.

Network

A NETWORK IS an interconnected group of supporters who serve as resources for your job search and ultimately for your career. Some great network contacts might include people you meet at business and social meetings who provide you with career information and advice. Students often hesitate to network because they feel awkward asking for help, but it should be an integral part of any job search. Though you might feel nervous when approaching a potential contact, networking is a skill that develops with practice, so don’t give up. Most people love to talk about themselves and their jobs and are willing to give realistic—and free—advice.

By Thomas J. Denham

1

2

Eight Keys to Networking

BE PREPARED First, define what information you need and what you are trying to accomplish by networking. Remember, your purpose in networking is to get to know people who can provide informa-tion regarding careers and leads. Some of the many benefits of networking include increased visibility within your field, propelling your professional devel-opment, finding suitable mentors, increasing your chances of promotion and perhaps finding your next job. Second, know yourself—your education, expe-rience and skills. Practice a concise, one-minute presentation of yourself so that people will know the kinds of areas in which you are interested. Your networking meeting should include the following elements: introduction, self-overview, Q&A, obtaining referrals and closing.

BE TARGETED Identify your network. For some, “I don’t have a professional network. I don’t know anyone,” may be your first reaction. You can start by listing everyone you know who are potential pros-pects: family members, friends, faculty, neighbors, classmates, alumni, bosses, co-workers and commu-nity associates. Attend meetings of organizations in your field of interest and get involved. You never know where you are going to meet someone who could lead you to your next job.

Social Networking

WebsitesCareer professionals—and parents—are warning young job seekers that using social networking sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, may be hazardous to your career. After all, do you want your potential employer to see photos of you at last week-end’s party? Certainly, those photos could diminish your prospects of landing a job. However, more job seekers are using social networking to enhance their preparation for interviews, garner an advantage over less-wired peers, and even gain an edge with recruiters. One example of a constructive use of social networking websites is gath-ering background information about the recruiters with whom you will interview. By finding out about topics that will interest the recruiter, you may gain an upper hand in the interview process. In addition, stronger connections with a potential employer can be made by talking about the clubs he or she belongs to and even friends you have in common—information that can be discov-ered on Facebook. Research on professional sites like LinkedIn can also be used to prepare for site visits. By using the alumni connections available through LinkedIn, you can gain added insight into potential employers. If you are interviewing with a company, search for alumni who are working there. You can have conversations with alumni via LinkedIn that you wouldn’t have in an interview, such as, “do you like it at the company” or “can you negotiate salary?”

Networking Rules When you seek and maintain profes-sional connections via social networking sites, follow the same etiquette you would if you were networking by phone and in person. Remember that every contact is creating an impression. Online, you might tend to be less formal because you are communicating in a space that you typi-cally share with friends. Just as you would not let your guard down if you were having dinner with a potential employer, you must maintain a positive and professional approach when conversing with networking contacts online. Ask good questions, pay

Photo © Lvnel - Fotolia.com



34

attention to the answers, and be polite—this includes sending at least a brief thank-you note anytime someone gives you advice or assistance.

If It’s OK for Mom, It’s OK for Facebook The more controversial aspect of the interplay between social networking and job searching is the privacy debate. Some observers, including career counselors, deans, and parents, worry that students put themselves at a disadvantage in the job search by making personal information available on Facebook and Twitter pages. More and more companies are using such websites as a screening tool. Concern about privacy focuses on two areas: social life and identity/affiliations. Parents and career counselors argue that job-seekers would never show photos of themselves at a party in the middle of an interview, so why would they allow employers to see party photos on a Facebook page? Students often respond that most employers do not even use social networking sites and that employers already know that college students drink. While it may be true that senior managers are less likely to be on Facebook, young recruiters may be active, and in many cases, employers ask younger employees to conduct online searches of candidates. Why risk losing a career opportunity because of a photo with two drinks in your hand? It’s easy to deduce that if an employer is comparing two candidates who are closely matched in terms of GPA and experience, and one has questionable photos and text on his or her online profile and the second does not, that the second student will get the job offer.

Identity—Public or Private? Identity and affiliations are the second area where social networking and privacy issues may affect your job search and employment prospects. Historically, job-seekers have fought for increased protection from being asked questions about their identity, including religious affiliation and sexual orientation, because this information could be used by biased employers to discriminate. Via social networking sites, employers can now find information that they are not allowed to ask you. Employers can no longer legally ask these questions in most states, however, some students make matters like religion, political involvement, and sexual orientation public on their web pages.

Questions to Ask During Networking Meetings• What do you like most (least) about your work?

• Can you describe a typical workday or week?

• What type of education and experience do you need to remain successful in this field?

• What are the future career opportunities in this field?

• What are the challenges in balancing work and personal life?

• Why do people enter/leave this field or company?

• Which companies have the best track record for promoting minorities?

• What advice would you give to someone trying to break into this field?

• With whom would you recommend I speak? When I call, may I use your name?

BE PROFESSIONAL Ask your networking pros-pects for advice—not for a job. Your networking meetings should be a source of career informa-tion, advice and contacts. Start off the encounter with a firm handshake, eye contact and a warm smile. Focus on asking for one thing at a time. Your contacts expect you to represent yourself with your best foot forward.

BE PATIENT Heena Noorani, research analyst with New York-based Thomson Financial, recom-mends avoiding the feeling of discouragement if networking does not provide immediate results or instant answers. She advises, “Be prepared for a slow down after you get started. Stay politely persistent with your leads and build momentum. Networking is like gardening: You do not plant the seed, then quickly harvest. Networking requires cultivation that takes time and effort for the process to pay off.”

Social Networking Websites continued

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You would never include religious and political affiliations as well as sexual orien-tation or transgender identity (LGBTQ) on your resume, so do you want this informa-tion to be available via social networking sites? There are two strategies to consider. One approach is that if you wish to only work for an employer with whom you can be openly religious, political, or LGBTQ then making that information available on your web page will screen out discriminating employers and make it more likely that you will land with an employer open to your identity and expression. A second approach though, is to maintain your privacy and keep more options open. Investigate potential employers thoroughly and pay special attention at site visits to evaluate whether the company would be welcoming. This strategy is based on two perspectives shared by many career profes-sionals. First, as a job-seeker, you want to present only your relevant skills and experi-ence throughout the job search; all other information is irrelevant. Second, if you provide information about your identity and affiliations, you may be discriminated against by one person in the process even though the company overall is a good match.

Strategies for Safe and Strategic Social Networking 1. Be aware of what other people can see

on your page. Recruiters use these sites or ask their colleagues to do searches on candidates.

2. Determine access intentionally. Some career counselors advocate deactivating your Facebook or Twitter accounts while job searching.

3. Set a standard. If anything appears on your page that you wouldn’t want an interviewer to see, remove the offending content.

4. Use social networking to your advan-tage. Use these sites to find alumni in the companies that interest you and contact them before you interview in your career center or before a site visit. In addition, use social networking sites and internet searches to learn more about the recruiters who will interview you before the interview.

“Social Networking Websites” written by Harriet L. Schwartz.

Do’s & Don’ts of Networking• Do keep one hand free from a briefcase or

purse so you can shake hands when necessary.

• Do bring copies of your resume.

• Don’t tell them your life story; you are dealing with busy people, so get right to the point.

• Don’t be shy or afraid to ask for what you need.

• Don’t pass up opportunities to network.

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BE FOCUSED ON QUALITY—NOT QUANTITY In a large group setting, circulate and meet people, but don’t try to talk to everyone. It’s better to have a few meaningful conversations than 50 hasty introductions. Don’t cling to people you already know; you’re unlikely to build new contacts that way. If you are at a reception, be sure to wear a nametag and collect or exchange business cards so you can later contact the people you meet.

BE REFERRAL-CENTERED The person you are networking with may not have a job opening, but he or she may know someone who is hiring. The key is to exchange information and then expand your network by obtaining additional referrals each time you meet someone new. Be sure to mention the person who referred you.

BE PROACTIVE Stay organized and track your networking meetings. Keep a list of your contacts and update it frequently with the names of any leads given to you. Send a thank-you note or email if appropriate. Ask if you can follow up the conversation with a phone call, or even better, with a more in-depth meeting in the near future.

BE DEDICATED TO NETWORKING Most impor-tantly, networking should be ongoing. You will want to stay in touch with contacts over the long haul—not just when you need something. Make networking part of your long-term career plan.

Thomas J. Denham is the managing partner and career counselor of Careers in Transition LLC.

Social Networking Websites continued



http://www.mitalent.org


Your 60-Second CommercialUse the following guidelines to develop an introduction when meeting employers during interviews, career days and other networking events . Your goal is to create a positive and lasting impression in a brief amount of time .

1 . Preview the list of organizations participating in the event and plan a strategy for the day . Put together an “A” list and a “B” list of employers you want to target . Contact your career services office to see what employers may be recruiting on campus .

2 . Research all the employers on your “A” list . Look for current facts about each employer, including new products, services or acquisitions .

3 . Write down some key facts about the employer:

(a) _____________________________________________________________________________________________

(b) _____________________________________________________________________________________________

4 . Review job descriptions pertinent to your major for employer requirements . Note specific knowledge, skills, and abilities they seek . List academic or employment experiences and activities where you demonstrated these skills .

The employer is seeking: My qualifications and selling points:

(a) __________________________________________ (a) ____________________________________________

(b) __________________________________________ (b) ____________________________________________

(c) __________________________________________ (c) ____________________________________________

(d) __________________________________________ (d) ____________________________________________

5 . Review the employer’s mission statement and look for key words that indicate the personal qualities the organization values in its employees . List 2 or 3 of your personal qualities that closely match .

My personal qualities:

(a) ____________________________ (b) ___________________________ (c) ____________________________

Review the sample below . Using the information above, prepare and practice a brief 60-second commercial or introduction to use when meeting employer representatives .

Hello, my name is _______. I am currently a junior, majoring in economics and working part-time as a supervisor at Campus Information Services. This role has enhanced my communication, management, and leadership skills. In addition, I had an internship over the summer with ABC Company where I worked in a team environment on a variety of marketing and website development projects. I recently read an article about your company’s plans for business growth in the Northeast, and I’m interested in learning more.

Notes: Practice your introduction with a friend or career counselor so it sounds conversational rather than rehearsed . You may want to break your opening remarks into two or three segments rather than delivering it all at once . Good luck with your all-important first impression!

Adapted with permission from the Office of Career Services at Rutgers University, New Brunswick Campus.

Step 1: Research the Employer

Step 2: Develop Your Introduction



Interviews

PracticeAnalysis and research alone are not enough. Practice is vital.

• Obtain a list of potential interview questions and decide how you would answer them . Take the time to write the answers down and practice saying them out loud . See page 29 for likely questions .

• Prepare two or three questions to ask the interviewer that show off your research and professional interest . See page 29 for examples .

• Write a 60-second commercial and practice saying it aloud until it sounds and feels natural to you . See page 26 for more information .

• Practice talking about how you have successfully completed activities that demonstrate the skills and experiences employers seek .

• Practice shaking hands . A handshake should last no more than a few seconds and the grasp should be firm .

• Review common illegal questions and decide how you would answer them . Plan how you would respond if asked to provide your Facebook password .

PerformYou were invited to interview because the recruiter was impressed by your resume. Now, demonstrate that you are the best person for the job.

• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early .

• Carry a briefcase or professional portfolio, not a bookbag .

• Bring several extra copies of your resume .

• Maintain a professional image and treat everyone you meet with politeness and consideration . You never know who might be in the elevator or parking lot next to you or who might be asked for an opinion .

• Express a positive attitude; greet your interviewer(s) with a warm smile, direct eye contact, and a firm handshake .

• Be mindful of non-verbal communication . Maintain eye contact, sit up straight, and avoid crossing your arms across your chest .

• Keep your answers brief; no more than two minutes per question .

How to Succeed in a Professional Interview

Prepare Know the job, the company, and your value.

Analyze the Position• What is the primary function of the position? Sales?

Service? Products? Planning?

• Who uses the services or products?

• What are the basic tasks?

• What are the required skills, abilities and education?

• Does the position function independently or as part of a team? Does it do both?

Research the Company• Explore the company website and familiarize yourself

with size, location, customers, products, services, names of decision makers, competitors, etc .

• Uncover needs, problems, and challenges, missions, and values .

• Where is the position located? What is the typical salary for the position in the geographical region?

• Research the company further: contact anyone you know in the business, read current or recent articles, visit Hoover’s Guide and Career InfoNet .

Identify What You Have to Offer• Inventory your skills and abilities and identify all the areas

in which you have relevant strengths and experiences .

• Reflect on your successes and your experiences in previous jobs, group and individual projects, volunteer activities, and campus involvement .

• Develop a written list of examples that demonstrate your readiness to meet the needs stated in the job description .

• Review your resume and prepare to answer questions about anything that is mentioned .

• Think of stories and examples to tell to demonstrate your ability to handle various situations that might come up in your job . Use the STAR model described on page 29 .

Hiring managers say that one of the biggest mistake candidates make is coming to interviews unprepared . The candidates don’t know the simplest of details: what the position entails, what the company provides, and what benefits they would bring to the company . You can greatly increase your chances of interview success by researching and practicing beforehand .


Perform (continued)

• Most interviews begin with: “Tell me about yourself .” This is not a request for personal information; it is your first opportu-nity to highlight your education and experiences as they relate to the position in a well-prepared Power Greeting . See Your 60-Second Commercial found on page 26 .

• Don’t try to memorize “the right answer” to interview ques-tions . Instead, answer with the idea in mind that each question is a version of “Why are you the right person for the job?” which is best answered by giving examples of successes that align with the job needs .

• Answer questions to demonstrate what you can do for the company, not what the company can do for you .

• If you are interested in the position, say so . Surprisingly, many interviewees neglect to let the interviewer know that they truly want the position . “Thank you for inviting me to meet with you today . After meeting with you and learning more about the position I am sure that I would like to be a part of your team .”

• At the end of the interview, summarize why you are the best match for the position and thank the interviewer(s) for the opportunity to meet with them . Ask for business cards .

Follow Up• Send a thank you within 24 hours of the interview . You may call

or phone, but a handwritten note or card is especially effective .• Call within the week to ask if additional information is needed

and to re-express your interest .

Navigate Phone and Skype InterviewsWhile face-to-face interviews are still the preferred interview model for final hiring decisions, some recruiters utilize phone and skype interviews to narrow the interview pool to a short list .

Phone Interviews• Schedule your phone interview at a time when you can be in a

quiet space without interruption .

• Be available at the interview time to which you agreed .

• Speak clearly and maintain a reasonable volume and pace . If you are asked more than once to repeat an answer, you are probably speaking too softly or quickly, or both . Slow down and speak up .

• Your voice should convey energy and confidence . Some people find that smiling when answering questions helps them sound upbeat and positive .

• You might find it helpful to have your written answers handy, and/or the company’s website open on the computer . If you choose this route, glance at the answers now and again, but do not read the responses verbatim . Also, avoid using the keyboard as the keying will be obvious to the listeners .

• Dress as if you were meeting face to face . Wear a suit or profes-sional business attire . You will be more likely to speak, move, and act professionally if you are professionally dressed . When you are lounging around in your sweats, your demeanor is likely to come across as too casual .

Skype Interviews • Create a professional Skype username .

• Practice operating the technology in advance until you are comfortable with it . Have a backup plan in place should the technology fail .

• Wear a suit or professional business attire .

• Be mindful of the background and location of your interview . The area should be uncluttered, quiet and project a profes-sional image .

• Practice interviewing in front of the camera and utilize prac-tice software like Interview Stream .

• Be careful not to fidget or bob in and out of the camera’s view .

Opportunities for Practice InterviewingEngineering Professional Development offers a wide range of opportunities for you to prepare and practice interviewing . Try one or try them all .

OPTIONS AVAILABILITY HOW TO SCHEDULE

Practice by phone or face to face with profes-sional staff

M-F 9 am – 4 pm Call (319) 335-5763 to schedule an appointment

24/7 - Online Visit: www.uiowa.interviewstream.com

Mock interviews with industry professionals Various dates Visit hireahawk for details on companies, dates and sign-up


InterviewsHow to Succeed in a Professional Interview continued



Opening Questions• Tell me about yourself .• Why did you choose to interview with our organization?• What do you know about our organization’s products or

services?• Why are you interested in this industry?

Experience• What job-related skills have you developed?• Did you work while going to school? In what positions?• What did you learn from these work experiences?• Why should we hire you rather than another candidate?• What did you enjoy most about your last employment? Least?• Have you ever quit a job? Why?• How do you think a former supervisor would describe your

work?• Can you tell me about a time when you had to manage multiple

deadlines?• Give an example of a situation in which you provided a solution to

an employer.• Give an example of a time in which you worked under deadline

pressure.

Education-Oriented Questions• How does your college education relate to this job?• Why did you choose your major?• Why did you choose to attend your college or university?• Describe how your campus activities helped prepare you for this

position .• Which classes in your major did you like best? Least? Why?• Do your grades accurately reflect your ability? Why or why not?• What concepts from your academic program could you apply to

this position?

Additional Questions• Describe your ideal job .• What do you consider to be your greatest strengths and

weaknesses?• Of which three accomplishments are you most proud?• Who are your role models? Why?• What motivates you most in a job?• Where do you want to be in five years? Ten years?• Do you prefer to work under supervision or on your own?• Describe your preferred style of supervision .• Would you be successful working with a team or independently?• Do you prefer large or small organizations? Why?• Tell me about a time when you worked in an unstructured

environment.• Have you had difficulty getting along with a former professor/

supervisor/co-worker? How did you handle it?

Questions to Ask Employers Specific questions about the job are better asked during second meetings or with Human Resources staff . Ask more general ques-tions that show your interest in the industry or organization .• What is the biggest challenge the industry will face over the next

six months?• Is there a service or product that you would like to offer your

customer that is not currently being offered?• What products are in the development stage?• How would you describe the company culture?• What are the ideal qualities you are looking for in the candidate

for this position?• What do you enjoy about working here?• What are the next steps in this hiring process?

Sample Interview QuestionsBehavioral QuestionsMany recruiters use a technique known as “behavioral interviewing” as part of the interview process . Instead of, or in addition to asking hypothetical questions about how you would behave in various situations, behavioral questions ask what you did or how you handled a particular situation .

Typically behavioral interview questions revolve around work experiences, initiative, planning, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and collaboration . Anticipate that you might be asked to explain or talk about times when you demonstrated these behaviors and prepare and practice your answers in advance .

The STAR ModelUse the STAR model (Situation, Tasks, Actions, Results) to set up a situation, describe the tasks needed to be completed, the actions you took, and the favorable result or outcome . Be specific; don’t forget that you should be the hero of the story .

Example: Tell me about a time that you had to work with a difficult person.

S. Last semester I was working on a group project. When we were at an important stage, one of the teammates stopped coming to meetings and doing his part. We called and texted and emailed him over and over but he never responded.

T. We needed this teammate to help us contribute to the assignment and the group asked me to address him in person.

A. One afternoon I went to his house to talk to him in person. I told him that the team was concerned about him and frustrated because we were counting on him. He said that he was sorry to let us down but he was failing Chemistry and was preoccupied. I got him in touch with one of my friends who is a chemistry major, and they set up some tutoring sessions.

R. Once my teammate started working with my friend and doing better in class he returned to the group and did his part and even more. The project was finished on time, we all got a good grade, and our teammate passed Chemistry.

Examples of Behavioral Questions are written in italics above .



What Should I Wear?Wear a suit . When you wear a suit you communicate that you are serious about the position and that you respect the process, the posi-tion, the company, and the interviewer . If the company or position is casual, you may be tempted to dress down . However, for the inter-view, you should dress up . Once you have been offered the position, you can adjust your attire to the company culture . If you feel strongly that wearing a suit would be inappropriate, call the company in advance to inquire what is considered proper interview attire .

Males• Dark suits (black or navy) in natural fabrics (wool or cotton) are

safe bets .• Polished dress shoes (solid heels, complete soles, and no scuffs) .• Dark suit, dark socks . Light suit, light socks (not white) .• Ties should be conservative, limited to small patterns or solid

colors .• Pockets should be free from bulging wallets, tobacco products, or

jingling coins .• Remove earrings and other piercings; cover up visible tattoos .• Facial hair and nails should be clean and cut short .

Females• Pant suit or dress suit in conservative colors—black, navy, grey .• Skirt lengths that are not revealing (no higher than 2 inches

above knee) .• Makeup should be minimal and hair neatly styled and away from

your face .

• Avoid flashy, excessive jewelry, remove body piercings, and cover visible tattoos .

• Wear polished pumps or dress flats .• Non-textured, neutral hose or socks that complement your attire .• Clear or conservative nail polish on an appropriate nail length .• Small purse• Avoid low-cut tops

Tips and RemindersDon’t forget the little details . If you are expecting to receive calls for interviews, make sure that your outgoing phone message conveys a professional image . Record the message in your own voice and use your first and last name . Speak slowly and clearly . The message should be free of background noises, and should not include jokes or music .

• Call the day before to confirm the interview time .• Take a trial drive beforehand to make sure that you know the

way and travel time; your GPS is not fail proof .• Bring a list of questions, extra copies of your resume, and pen/

paper to make notes .• Take a last glance in the mirror . Check that your tie is spot free

and your teeth are free of lipstick or food .• Turn off your phone . • No gum .


Attire for the Interview


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When considering how to obtain real-world experience while in college, many students immediately think of internships . While internships are valuable and fit easily

around students’ class schedules, co-op positions offer the opportu-nity to become more deeply involved in an organization, do more substantive work, and gain work experience that may make one more employable after graduation .

Co-op experiences typically involve multiple and/or longer work terms . For example, a co-op student may work for a company from May until December, and then return to school in January for the winter semester . Typically, students participating in a co-op will not be taking classes and will instead be gaining real-world experience by working full-time for a company during the length of the co-op . Participating in a co-op may delay your graduation date . Before committing to a co-op, you should create an academic plan with your academic advisor that details which courses you plan to take each semester to make sure you are on track to graduate .

Consider how a co-op will fit into your schedule, but don’t skip out on participating in a co-op just because you are in a rush to graduate . Co-op opportunities are a great way to learn more about your field and translate what you have learned in the classroom into work assignments . While on co-op, you may learn about a new area of interest that will influence what courses you will take in the future . Co-op experience will also make you more attractive to companies when you begin to apply for full-time opportunities . Many companies understand that co-ops typically involve more learning and hands-on experience than internships, and so value candidates with co-op experience accordingly . Furthermore, taking a co-op position will allow you to earn money that could help to defray college expenses . Most co-op positions pay very well!

After you have received a co-op offer, contact Engineering Professional Development to register your experience so that you can retain your student status while you are away from the univer-sity on a co-op . To learn more about co-op, including how to find co-op opportunities, schedule an appointment .

Hoping to Gain Valuable Industry Experience?Consider Doing a Co-op

Cooperative Education and Internship Program:The Advantage of Engineering Experience and Education

Field ExperiencePaid PositionsProfessional LicensureEver wonder what it’s like to apply your knowledge in a “real-world” environment with professional engineers as supervisors and mentors? The University of Iowa College of Engineering Cooperative Education and Internship Program helps interested engineering students participate in supervised engineering field experiences . Our students have worked with over 200 organizations in industry, government, and education . Talk with Engineering Professional Development to find out how you can gain work experi-ence relating to your field of study .

The program is open to students with a minimum GPA of 2 .0 and at least sophomore standing . You can graduate with experience on your resume, co-op coursework on your transcript, and money in your pocket . Most engineering co-ops/internships are paid positions, in addition to being an excellent opportunity to apply your engineering, communication, and leadership skills . The experience sets you apart from other graduates, increases your marketability to employers, and gives you additional leverage in salary negotiations . Plus, many states allow you to use the time spent in a university-registered engineering work experience toward the requirements for professional licensure .

Interviewing ExperienceProfessional InteractionCareer SatisfactionThe program provides you with the academic and experiential ammu-nition you need to help secure the job and salary you want . Co-op/Internships give you the opportunity to hone your communication skills in a professional environment, as well as “use” the theories you have been “studying” in class . Recruiters use successful co-op/intern experiences as predictors of future success in professional environ-ments requiring similar academic and communication skill sets . Graduates with co-op experience on their resume, transcripts, and portfolio have an edge during interviewing and hiring . This edge can translate into faster career growth and job satisfaction .

Co-ops/internships are short-term reflections of the full time search . You will be able to improve your resume and interviewing skills, and most importantly, begin and/or build on your network of professional contacts . Most career positions are acquired through contacts with professionals in your field . The Engineering Cooperative Education/Internship Program provides a framework on which you can build your professional network .


Make an Impact at Your Internship or Full-Time Job

Making an impact at your internship or first full-time posi-tion comes down to simply understanding and following workplace etiquette . Workplace etiquette is nothing more

than the behavior and manners that are acceptable at your work site . The tricky part is that each site is different and the rules are different from the rules that apply to you as a student . People don’t expect you to be a student . Rather, they expect you to act the way they do, as a professional in their line of work . Often times, the rules are seldom spelled out for you, and are not the same for any two organizations . If you don’t figure out the rules, you may have a poor experience and a poor evaluation . So what do you do? Here are a few guidelines and ideas to help you get on track:

1. Dress the PartYes, this is important! When you walk in the door of your work site, even if it is on campus, you are no longer a student . Appropriate attire is different for every organization . Look around you . What are others wearing? What about their hairstyles? What kind of accessories are the norm, including earrings for men? Model your dress and grooming after that of your supervisor and other professional staff, and you cannot go wrong .

2. Follow the Chain of CommandIt is important for you to know the formal and informal reporting structures within your organization . Once you understand them, follow them! The unspoken rule is this: do not go around, behind or over anyone . Follow the chain of command in all your commu-nications and actions . That means go to your site supervisor first . Also, identify the second in command or the person you can go to in your supervisor’s absence .

3. Respect ConfidentialityYou can talk about issues, projects, and the work environment, but refrain from talking about people . Gossip can get back to people and wind up hurting you . Don’t be hurt if you are left out of certain discussions—some issues are for staff eyes and ears only . Finally, don’t take sides; steer clear of interoffice politics . Remember that you are there to work on your project .

4. Respect the Support StaffThey have been there longer than you, and they know more than you . They can be terrific allies in helping you break in, helping you understand the unspoken rules, and helping you accomplish your goals if you treat them with the respect they are due . Wipe the thought “just a secretary” out of your mind . Remember this: without support staff, the organization would not run .

5. Learn Basic Social SkillsThis might seem rather silly, but if no one ever taught you such rituals, you are well advised to learn them quickly! Go to the library and read some etiquette books, or pattern your behavior after those around you . How you handle hellos, goodbyes, and basic courtesies

of speech and action can win friends or turn people off . For example, don’t sit down in someone’s office until you are invited to do so . Keep your feet off the furniture . Hats off inside! Don’t chew gum .

6. Attendance and Promptness are ExpectedAs a student, some faculty may not penalize you if you fly into class five minutes late or if you miss class . In the work world, that just won’t cut it . Tardiness and absenteeism signal disrespect for others’ time and a lack of interest in the work . Promptness signals eager-ness, responsibility, and respect for others . At the beginning of the day and at all your meetings, be on time or five minutes early . The only reasons that may justify an absence from work are serious illness or family emergencies . It is important to call immediately and speak directly with your supervisor if you have a problem, which will keep you from work .

7. Learn to Make a Positive First ImpressionPractice until you acquire a firm handshake . Learn how to make introductions and how to introduce yourself to those you don’t know . Be friendly, smile and extend yourself . These are all parts of those important first impressions, which really can earn you points . Picture this: the Executive Director of your organization is coming down the hall toward you . You are alone . She is a valuable person to know . Are you ready to introduce yourself?

8. Take InitiativeOffer to help on projects and assist others in the office .

9. Turn Off Your Cellphone and Don’t Open FacebookYour employer expects you to work during the work day, not conduct personal business or be distracted by texting friends or checking social media . These things can be done during lunchtime or other breaks, but don’t jeopardize your position because you couldn’t wait until after work to text your friends about dinner plans .

10. Be a Good AmbassadorBe aware that you reflect the institution . How you perform and behave at work will establish your professional image, for better or worse, and also, the future of other Rutgers interns or full-time candidates .

Think about the long-term benefits of good work place etiquette . You might want to ask your previous supervisors for job recom-mendations or contacts . You may apply for full-time or summer jobs at a previous work site . Have you proven that you can make it in that type of environment? Have you earned a positive recom-mendation? What you do today can stick with you for a long time . Make it count!

Adapted from Muhlenberg College and Seattle University.



Don’t Forget the Small Companies

Most students concentrate their job search on Fortune 500 corporations or other large, well-known companies with defined and approachable personnel departments .

And in an economic climate that has proved challenging for small business, it would be easy to follow the path of “most students .”

But don’t count out the small companies just yet . Small busi-nesses have been at the forefront of innovation, economic growth and job creation, and there’s no reason to doubt they’ll continue to find themselves in this position in the future .

Generally, any business with 200 or fewer employees is consid-ered a small company . Whether the business has 20 employees or 20,000, the research you do in preparation for an interview opportunity will be the best gauge of the company’s outlook . As we’ve seen, large companies can be just as shaky as small ones, so the questions really come down to; “Is a small company right for you?” and “Are you right for a small company?” There are several things to consider when deciding between working in a large versus a small company .

Is a Small Company Right for You?Small companies tend to offer an informal atmo sphere, an all-for-one camaraderie and require more versatility and dedication on the part of the company and workers . Small companies are usually growing so they are constantly redefining themselves and the positions within them . Look at the following list of small company traits and consider which are advantages and which are disadvantages for you . • You are given more responsibility and are not limited by job

titles or descriptions . • Your ideas and suggestions will be heard and given more

attention . • Career advancement and salary increases may be rapid in a

growing company . • You have less job security due to the high rate of failure for a

small business . • You have the opportunity to be involved in the creation or

growth of something great . • You may be involved in the entire organization rather than

in a narrow department . • You may be eligible for stock options and profit sharing . • The environment is less bureaucratic; there are fewer rules

and regulations and thus fewer guidelines to help you deter-mine what to do and whether you’re succeeding or failing .

• Successes and faults are more visible . • Starting salaries and benefits may be more variable . • A dominant leader can control the entire organization . This

can lead either to more “political games” or a healthy, happy atmosphere .

• You must be able to work with everyone in the organization .

Are You Right for a Small Company?Because most small companies do not have extensive training programs, they look for certain traits in potential employees . You will do well in a small company if you are: • Self-motivated • A generalist with many complementary skills • A good communicator, both oral and written • Enthusiastic • A risk-taker • A quick learner • Responsible enough to get things done on your own

There are fewer limitations, and it’s up to you to make the best or worst of that freedom . A small business often has a strong company culture . Learn that company’s culture; it will help you on your way up the corporate ladder .

Finding a Job in a Small CompanyOne of the biggest hurdles to finding a job in a small business is contacting a hiring manager . Good timing is critical . The sporadic growth of many small companies can mean sporadic job open-ings, so you need to network . A small business tends to fill its labor needs informally through personal contacts and recommen-dations from employees . Job hunters must find their way into the organization and approach someone with hiring authority . This means you must take the initiative . Once you have someone’s attention, you must convince him or her that you can do some-thing for the company . How do you find information on small companies? Try these techniques: • Contact the chamber of commerce in the area you would

like to work . Get the names of growing companies in the industry of your choice . Peruse the membership directory .

• Participate in the local chapter of professional trade associa-tions related to your career . Send prospective employers a cover letter and resume, then follow up with a phone call .

• Read trade publications, business journals and area news-papers for leads . Again, follow up .

• Speak with small business lenders such as bankers, venture capitalists and small business investment companies listed in directories at local libraries .

Keep the following differences between large and small compa-nies in mind as you conduct your job search:

Large Company Small Company

Centralized Human Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No HR

Formal recruiting program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No full-time recruiters

Standardized hiring procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No standard hiring procedures

Keep resumes on file . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Usually won’t keep resumes

Interview held with Interview often held withrecruiters and managers . . . . . . . . . . . . . the founder or direct boss

Career section on Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Little/no career section on Web site

Hiring done months in advance of starting date . . . . . . . . . . . . Hired to begin immediately

Formal training programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . On-the-job training

Predetermined job categories . . . . . . . . . . . Jobs emerge to fit needs

Always do your homework on the company, and persuade them to hire you through your initiative and original thinking . If you haven’t graduated yet, offer to work for them as an intern . This will give you experience, and if you do well, there’s a good chance that a job will be waiting for you on graduation day .

Adapted with permission from the Career Resource Manual of the University of California, Davis.


Negotiating the Job Offer

How should I negotiate?

Best Practices in Negotiating: • Do your research, know your value .

• Ask questions—Understanding what the company wants and values will help you negotiate more effectively .

• Negotiate in person or over the phone, avoid email negotiations .

• Negotiate more than just salary—the more variables negoti-ated, the higher likelihood that you and the employer will reach an agreement both are satisfied with .

How do I initiate negotiations? • Find out if negotiation is even an option .

• Ask the crucial question: “What, if any, parts of this offer are negotiable?”

• Be prepared for the question: “What did you have in mind?”

Why is negotiation so important?It’s important to understand that your starting compensation package has many long-term consequences . All future raises and promotions are likely to be affected by the initial package, as well as potentially new job opportunities with other companies . Making sure that you and your new employer come to an arrangement that both are satisfied with is extremely important!

Adapted with permission from the ECS Career Guide of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s Engineering Career Services Office.

Negotiation Facts • Only 25% of applicants attempt to negotiate .

• 100% of employers feel that negotiating is appropriate .

• 90% of employers do not offer best compensation package initially .

• In one study, 57% of male MBA students attempted to negotiate while only 7% of females did so .

• Males in the previous study ended up making $4,000 more per year .

• In another study, recent male graduates who negoti-ated their salary earned an average increase of $975 per year; females earned an additional $1,778.

• In a third study, participants who opted to negotiate earned an average increase of $5,000 in annual salary, which ultimately led to an additional $600,000+ in lifetime earnings.

Why don’t people negotiate?

Myths and Fears • Fear of losing the job—Most employers expect to nego-

tiate, so asking to negotiate is unlikely to cost you the offer .

• Fear of conflict and emotion—Conflict is an inherent part of human interaction, overcoming this fear will benefit you throughout your career .

• Fear of employer’s superior power—Contrary to popular belief, once the employer has made you the initial offer the balance of power has shifted in your favor .

• Fear of negotiating poorly—Practice! Schedule an appointment with Engineering Professional Development to discuss your negotiation strategy .

Most employers agree that there is an implicit assumption that an initial job offer will be negotiated . Failure to negotiate can have a variety of negative implications such as leaving money on the table . If the initial offer is presumably not the best offer the employer is willing to offer, then accepting that offer is an immediate loss . Additionally, accepting the initial offer and failing to attempt negotia-

tion is acquiescence, which is a form of compromise . Some employers view compromise as lazy, which is not the initial impression you want to make with your new employer!


http://www.biosciences.dupont.com


Graduate School for Engineers– Factors to Consider

At some point in your college career, you must decide what you would like to do after graduation—and that includes whether or not to attend graduate school . If

you’re trying to determine whether graduate school is right for you, here are some pointers to help you make an enlightened decision .

1. Should I consider going to graduate school?Going to graduate school might be a good idea if you… • Wish to develop additional expertise in a particular subject

or field to maximize your future earning potential and opportunities for career advancement .

• Are deeply interested in a particular subject and wish to study it in-depth .

• Want to be a professor, lawyer, doctor, or work in any profession that requires a post-secondary education .

Going to graduate school might not be a good idea if you… • Are trying to delay your entry into the “real world” with real

responsibilities and real bills . • Are clueless about your career goals . • Aren’t prepared to devote the time and hard work needed to

succeed . • Want to stay in school longer to avoid a poor job market .

2. Is it better to work first or attend graduate school immediately after I complete my undergraduate degree?Work first if… • You would like to get some real-world work experience . • You haven’t applied for any scholarships, grants, fellowships

and assistantships, which could pay for a great deal of your education .

Go to graduate school now if… • You are absolutely sure you want to be a college professor,

doctor, lawyer, etc ., and need a graduate degree to pursue your dream job .

• You have been awarded grants, fellowships, scholarships or assistantships that will help pay for your education .

• You’re concerned that once you start earning real money, you won’t be able to return to the lifestyle of a “poor” student .

• Your study habits and mental abilities are at their peak, and you worry whether you’ll have the discipline (or motivation) to write papers and study for exams in a few years .

3. I am broke. How will I pay for tuition, books, fees and living expenses?The good news is that there are great opportunities for financial support and many engineering students go through graduate school without added debt .

• Fellowships/Scholarships: A free education is always the best option . The catch is you need a high GPA, good GRE/GMAT/LSAT/MCAT scores and the commitment to search out every possible source of funding .

• Teaching/Research Assistantships: Many assistantships include tuition waivers plus a monthly stipend . It’s a great way to get paid for earning an education .

• Employer Sponsorship: Did you know that some companies actually pay for you to continue your education? The catch is they usually expect you to continue working for them after you complete your degree so they can recoup their investment .

4. What are the pros and cons of going to graduate school full-time vs. part-time?Benefits of attending graduate school full-time: • You’ll be able to complete your degree sooner . • You can totally commit your intellectual, physical and

emotional energy to your education . • Ideal if you want to make a dramatic career change .

Benefits of attending graduate school part-time: • Work income helps pay for your education . • You can take a very manageable course load . • You can juggle family responsibilities while completing your

degree . • Allows you to work in the function/industry/career of your

choice while continuing your education . • Employer will often pay for part (or all) of your graduate

degree .

5. Assuming I want to go to graduate school in the near future, what should I do now? a . Identify your true strengths, interests and values to help you

discover what is right for YOU—not your friends or parents . b . Keep your grades up and sign up (and prepare) to take the

required standardized tests . c . Talk to faculty, friends and family who have gone to grad-

uate school to get their perspective about the differences between being an undergraduate and a graduate student .

d . Talk to faculty, friends and family who are in your targeted profession to get a realistic sense of the career path and the challenges associated with the work they do .

e . Investigate creative ways to finance your education—by planning ahead you may reduce your debt .

f . Research graduate schools to help you find a good match . g . Investigate the admissions process and the current student

body profile of your targeted schools to evaluate your prob-ability for admission .

h . Have faith and APPLY! Remember, you can’t get in unless you apply .

Adapted with permission from an article by Roslyn J. Bradford.

630.938.0200 • CRMpubs.com

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