A Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume is a document summarising the relevant aspects of your career to date. This is normally a
2-page document which can be presented in a variety of formats. All CVs , however, cover the following areas:
- Personal Details: Name, address, telephone number, e-mail address
- Education: Dates and details of universities attended and degree results
Main subjects studies and details of major projects
Leaving Certificate results and dates
- Work Experience: Details of any work experience in reverse chronological order i.e. the most recent first.
Details should cover: dates, name of employer, duties or responsibilities.
Include CoOp experience, summer work, part-time work and voluntary work.
- Skills: Mention specific skills not already covered e.g. Computer skills - listing packages used, Language
skills, Driving licence.
- Interests and Achievements: List interests, hobbies, involvement in clubs and societies, awards, etc.
- Referees: If you don't have space to list names and addresses of two referees, (one academic and one
work-related), then state that 'references can be provided on request'.
Remember to ask permission of referees in advance.
Tips and guidelines for CVs
- Restrict yourself to 2 pages
- Develop a format to suit your needs
- Keep it simple and concise
- Use action words and bullet points
- Avoid gaps
- Allocate space according to importance of the information
- Place most relevant information first for maximum impact
- Check spelling and punctuation
- Make sure it looks well - first impressions count.
Download a Sample CV - Undergraduate
Download a Sample CV - Education
Download a Sample CV - Mature Student
Download a Sample CV - Postgrad Student
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