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Writing Center

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• Heart Icon First time visit?
• Phone icon Our Hours
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• Youtube icon How Tutoring Works

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The Writing Center is a friendly space that provides UIC students with free 1:1 peer feedback and support for writing. We’ll work with you on class assignments, research, personal statements, lab reports, memos, applications, or resumes.  

We can work with you at any stage of writing: you can come with no writing and talk to a tutor about getting started (or moving past a writer’s block), or you can come with a draft and discuss possibilities for next steps. In the most productive sessions, both you and the tutor participate. Tutors offer options, share their own writing experience, and help you use resources about writing. Of course, responsibility for making final changes in the writing remains with you, the author. Many students have found that tutoring sessions help not only improve the assignment, but also confidence and motivation about writing. See what students say here .

Read more about our mission here.

You can make a 50 min. appointment in-person or online . See our current hours here .

• For In-person sessions , you meet with your tutor in 105 Grant Hall .
• For Online sessions , you meet in real time over the internet. Login to uic.mywconline.com , click your appointment, and then “JOIN ONLINE SESSION.”
• You are welcome to use our wonderful space to write.
• If you are in the neighborhood and want a little feedback on your writing, it is always worth dropping in last minute. We would do our best to find a tutor. If you would need to wait, we would give you a nice place to study or write.

To make an appointment, first register at uic.mywconline.com . When you log back in, enter the time and date you want, or, in the calendar view, click on any available white square. If you don’t see a time, please email [email protected] . During our open hours , you can also call the Writing Center at 312-413-2206 .

Testimonial feedback from Writing Center users: Heading link Copy link

“This was an incredibly valuable experience at the writing center! I appreciated my tutor’s feedback and how she not only was attentive to my concerns-but she opened my eyes to an area of my writing that I need improvement in, in a respectable and helpful manner.”

“I really felt a lot more confident in my writing after my session. The confidence I gained was really from the dynamic feedback the tutor gave me. The tutor was able to highlight some of my strengths, but also pointed out areas that could have definitely used some editing. A sense of trust developed between me and the tutor that I was pretty astonished by!”

“Extremely helpful. Helped me formulate ideas, provided direct answers, bounced ideas off of each other etc. 10/10 would recommend! :)”

“Kind, compassionate, listens.”

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School of Public Health

Career tools.

Use the resources below for preparing your resume and cover letter and getting ready for your interview.

But First....

Start with Handshake!

Use these tools to help you navigate the system, update your profile, and job search

Resume Essentials Heading link Copy link

How to create a resume.

Identify the goal of your resume.

• What professional brand are you selling?
• What skill set are you marketing?

Define the target audience.

• What companies are you interested in?
• What qualities do they value?
• What skill set are they looking for?

 Create your “branding statement.”

• Create a branding statement describing who you are as a professional
• Describe key skills and experiences as they relate to the position you are applying for
• What contributions have you made to your industry / previous employers? What is your value?

 Reflect on your experience. What are some of your major contributions and/or accomplishments?

• Your bullet points should be accomplishments-driven. Avoid listing job functions.

List of guidelines

• Be sure to begin with action verbs to describe how you contributed to your employers
• Quantify whenever possible
• Show contributions / outcomes
• Prioritize information
• Keep resume 1-2 pages
• Avoid using “responsible for” “duties included”
• Avoid clutter
• Be consistent (fonts and formatting)
• Make your resume visually appealing (use bullet points, bold headings, use italics sparingly)
• Do not use templates
• Do not include personal information (age, marital status, social security number etc.)
• Use a professional email address
• Be honest and avoid embellishing
• Do not use “I” “My” or “Me”
• Do not include high school information
• References should be on a separate page, avoid using “References available upon request”
• Tailor your resume to your audience
• Keep it professional and PROOFREAD!

Resume Samples Heading link Copy link

Additional resume resources heading link copy link.

• Document icon Resume Tip Sheet
• Edit icon Action Verbs
• Flag icon USA Jobs Resume Writing Video

Cover Letters Heading link Copy link

Tips for writing cover letters.

There is great debate in regards to the significance of submitting a cover letter.  Many job seekers have heard mixed reviews from recruiters and career professionals on the real value of a cover letter.  However, there are many employers that still request cover letters and many have indicated in the job posting that they seeking “insightful” cover letters.  Here are some tips to help you get started.

Tailor your cover letter

Do your research!  Never use the same “generic” cover letter for each position you are applying for.  Be sure to carefully read the keywords and specific qualifications that the employer is seeking.  Highlight the main points from the job posting and integrate your skills, strengths, qualifications, and accomplishments as they relate to the employer’s main points.  What does that employer value in an employee?  Researching the company can go a long way when crafting a tailored cover letter.

Assess your professional brand

Why are you applying for this position? What skills, strengths and experience do you possess that qualify you for this position?  Be sure you can make the connection for the employer.  Remember that your cover letter is not a rehash of your resume. This is your opportunity to tell your professional story as it relates to the position. Use tangible examples!

Keep it short and sweet

Stick to the main points and refrain from going off on tangents.  Your cover letter should not exceed more than a page.  Break down your cover letter into 3 – 4 paragraphs.  Keep the paragraphs short to avoid overwhelming the reader.

Use action statements

Refrain from using “responsible for”.  Take ownership of your contributions and use strong action verbs throughout your cover letter.

Always ask for an interview!

You have taken so much time in making your case to the employer to why you are a strong fit for the position.  Take the initiative and ask for the interview in your closing paragraph. Be sure to reiterate your contact information.

Tips for reviewing cover letters

• Include your name and contact information.  Your cover letter format (header) should be consistent with your resume.
• Proof read your cover letter.  Is the employer’s name spelled correctly? Have you addressed them properly? (Mr. Ms. Dr.).
• Does your cover letter showcase how you will bring value to the organization? Have you used examples to show evidence of how you have contributed to previous employers?
• Is the tone of the cover letter positive? Will the reader capture your enthusiasm for the position and field of work?
• Are you initiating an interview?
• Be sure to proof read for errors.  Have more than one person review your final product.

Cover Letter Resources Heading link Copy link

• Matrix icon SPH Career Services Pinterest Board
• Edit icon Cover Letter Format
• Check icon Cover Letter Checklist

Interview Essentials Heading link Copy link

About interview preparation, you got the interview.

Think how recruiters spend hours screening candidates and scouring through so many resumes to identify strong candidates for the position and  you  have been selected.  Obviously, your credentials, skills and experience have impressed the employer enough to invite you for an interview. This alone should be a confidence booster.

Positive thoughts

Think positive and believe in your skills and strengths.  Due to the nature of our current job market, so many candidates are drained, self-defeated and discouraged from their job search experience that sometimes their frustration transpires in the job interview. Employers can quickly pick up on any negative signals that can be an indicator to weed out a potential candidate.  Remember, employers are seeking candidates that will be a good fit in the organization and no one wants to work with a Debbie Downer!

Always be prepared (conduct a self-assessment and research the company)

Have you ever had to present on a topic that you are unfamiliar with or nowhere near expert in?  Imagine being tasked to do so .  If you are not confident in the topic, it is most likely that the quality of the presentation will be compromised and your lack of confidence will manifest in your body language therefore creating an awkward situation.  The same holds true in a job interview.  If you are not prepared to articulate to the employer how your background and skill set align with the position and organization, the outcome of the interview may not be in your favor.  Always assess your skills and strengths as they relate to the position and be sure to research the company values and core functions of the position. Again, think positive and remember  you  were called in for an interview.  Be confident in your abilities and  show  them why you should be selected for the position. Lastly, be sure to practice answering  interview questions .  I highly encourage practicing a video recorded mock interview with a career counselor or use a web cam to self-record your interview.  This can help you identify areas that need improvement- whether it is in your body language, tone of voice or how you articulate your responses.  This exercise can help you feel more prepared and as a result increase your confidence.

Know your value

Understanding your professional value is fundamental in all aspects of the job search process. Reach out to a trustworthy colleague or previous supervisor and simply ask “what are some important contributions I have made to our department/organization? What value did I bring?”  This exercise can help in two ways 1) hearing positive comments about your work from a colleague or former supervisor can be a confidence booster 2) you will gain perspective on how others perceive your value and use that information to enhance your self-marketing.

Like a picture, body language speaks a thousand words

We all know that  body language  can send a plethora of messages – many times our exterior misrepresents our interior. According to Ronald E. Riggio, Ph.D., Professor of Leadership and Organizational Psychology at Claremont McKenna College, three body language essentials to focus on during a job interview are poise, interest and expression. The ability to display these characteristics verbally and non-verbally can indeed boost job interview performance.

Finally, take a glance at your resume and reflect on your unique experience- it helps to talk about it too. Think of your accomplishments, contributions and achievements.  This will serve as a reminder of the value you bring to an employer.  Get out there and be confident!

Interview Resources Heading link Copy link

• SPH Career Services Pinterest Board
• Database of Interview Questions
• Work It Daily Interview cheatsheet
• Work It Daily Information you must have before an interview
• Tell Me About Yourself Handout
• LiveCareer Behavioral based interviewing
• LiveCareer Thank you letter template
• How to Write a Thank You Note After an Interview
• Glassdoor The ultimate job interview preparation guide
• Additional Interview Resources UIC Career Services

Salary Negotiation Resources Heading link Copy link

• Salary Finder
• LinkedIn Salary
• Salary Calculator
• How to Answer the Mid-Interview Salary Question Video
• How to Prepare to Talk About Salary
• 10 Things You Should Negotiate Other Than Salary
• 10 Things to Negotiate Besides Salary
• Strategies for Women to Negotiate a Higher Salary

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University of Illinois Chicago

Student support.

UIC supports learning and personal development

Our goal is to give students a wide range of experiences that build skills for school and life. The University of Illinois Chicago helps students succeed in a challenging, exciting and diverse global community of scholars.

Academic support

UIC offers the tools and support you need for the best college experience possible. We provide access to extensive academic and student support services that help in your courses and in connecting with classmates. Peer mentoring, tutoring and specialized workshops make your academic experience better.

All students are encouraged to take advantage of these resources and academic guidance.

• Academic Center for Excellence
• Academic Coaching
• African American Academic Network
• Asian American Resource and Cultural Center
• Gender and Sexuality Center
• CHANCE Program
• Disability Resource Center
• Latin American Recruitment and Educational Services
• Living Learning Communities
• Math and Science Learning Center
• Native American Support Program
• Office of International Services
• Rafael Cintron-Ortiz Latino Cultural Center
• TRIO Programs
• Tutoring Services
• UIC Bookstore - Medical Bookstore - Tech Center
• UIC Library
• Urban Health Program
• Women in Science and Engineering
• Writing Center

Financial support

Most students need help paying for college. UIC’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships  can advise you on the paperwork required and deadlines that must be met to apply for loans and grants. They can also tell you about public and private scholarships.

The Office of External Fellowships provides extensive advisement and assistance to current undergraduate and professional school students, and recent alumni, in finding and applying for nationally and internationally competitive fellowships, scholarships, and grants. Graduate students can find similar help directly from the Graduate College .

The  Student Employment Office can help you find a part-time job, either working for UIC on campus or for an off-campus employer.

• Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships
• Student Employment Office
• Office of External Fellowships

Social and cultural support

College is more than academics. The opportunity to grow socially and culturally is just as important. UIC offers resources dedicated to student involvement, support, networking and social interaction.

The Center for Student Involvement  is your source for live events, cultural programs, diverse student organizations and student-produced entertainment.

The Office of Diversity oversees seven  Centers for Cultural Understanding and Social Change that provide support to specific populations on campus and opportunities for intercultural engagement among students, faculty, staff and Chicago communities.

• Center for Student Involvement
• Arab American Cultural Center
• Asian American Resource and Cutural Center
• Black Cultural Center
• Rafael Cintrón Ortiz Latino Cultural Center
• Women's Leadership and Resource Center

Health and wellness

At UIC, our students’ health and well-being are just as important as their classroom success.  That’s why all students are automatically enrolled in the convenient  CampusCare health insurance program. CampusCare provides students with basic health services on campus. The Family Medicine Center also offers care to students and provides referrals to specialty services.

Students can work out, take a class, train with an instructor or get a massage at UIC’s   state-of-the-art fitness centers . The Wellness Center promotes healthy attitudes and behaviors through information, educational programs and skill-building activities. UIC’s  Counseling Center  helps students deal with stress, cope with the transition to college, gain strength from gender and cultural identity, and manage mental illness.

• Campus Recreation
• Wellness Center
• Counseling Center

Career support

An exciting future lies beyond the walls of UIC, and we want to assist you in your transition from student to professional.

The Office of Career Services provides educational workshops to help you write résumés and cover letters, search for jobs, learn interview and networking tips, use social media in your job search and on many more topics. The office also provides guidance if you are undecided in your major or are considering graduate school.

We can also help you navigate online job sites, find career fairs and secure an internship.

Your new career awaits. We can help make it happen.

• Office of Career Services

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Engineering Career Center

College of engineering, cover letter.

What is a cover letter and should you write one?

A cover letter (also known as an application letter) is a document used to explain why you are applying to a job and/or internship. It's purpose originated to literally be a letter to cover a resume (established back when we used to apply for jobs in paper form).

The goal of the cover letter is to sell yourself by showing how you posses skills that match a company's job description. Here are a few tips how to write an excellent cover letter as well as how to determine if you need to write one at all.

Cover Letter Tips Heading link Copy link

Do i have to write a cover letter.

• Large companies (500 employees or more) usually do not require a cover letter when applying for a job or internship. Recruiters from large companies have even advised us to inform students not to write cover letters since they often do not have time to read them due to the number of applications they receive.
• With the advent of online applications, there has been a decline in the necessity to prepare cover letters, since companies now have the ability to receive large volumes of applications electronically.
• Declines in cover letters for applications are also seen more readily in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
• Do not write a cover letter if it is a “template” cover letter, where you merely changed the company name and job title. Remember, engineers and developers are reading your cover letter; they can tell when they are reading a “template” cover letter. Cover letters need to be tailored to specifically to each company.
• Do not write a cover letter if you are crunched for time and need to submit your application quickly. Cover letters must be flawlessly written, which can take time to write and revise. Make sure to edit your cover letter multiple times to avoid any typos, or run-on sentences.
• Some job and/or internship applications will contain a field in the application to upload a cover letter. If you encounter an application that has a field to upload a cover letter, you should consider writing a cover letter. If the field to upload a cover letter is marked as required or if the job description specifically requests a cover letter, you should definitely write a cover letter.
• It is also recommended to write a cover letter if you have special insight into a company – such as you know someone who works there, are familiar with a specific project the company is working on, or you have direct experience in a skill that the company is hiring for. A cover letter highlighting your specific knowledge of a company,  a unique skill, or mention of a referral by a current employee, can help you land an interview.

What is the Basic Format?

• Cover letters are never more than one page in length.
• An introduction paragraph.
• 1-2 support paragraphs.
• One short conclusion paragraph.
• Consider copying your name and contact information exactly as it is formatted from your resume to your cover letter. This is a way to demonstrate that both the resume and the cover letter are part of the same application.
• Your personal website links, LinkedIn, or other social media links are optional to include.
• Must contain the name of the company that you are applying to and the company’s mailing address (if you can find it).
• Must contain the name of the position that you are applying for in the body of the cover letter.
• Sincerely, Tom
• Best Wishes, Grace
• Take Care, Dakota
• Many Thanks, Maria

Who Do I Address My Letter To?

• If possible, try to direct your cover letter to a specific person – if you know who the hiring manager is for the position, direct your cover letter to them (e.g. Dear Ms. Riley ). Never use “Mrs.” when addressing someone; instead use “Ms.” or “Mr.”
• If you don’t know who the hiring manager is, do some research! Consider looking up the company on LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or network through your friends, professors, or other students you know who may have worked/interned at the company you are applying to.
• Dear Engineer Selection Committee,
• Dear Development Team,
• To the Summer Internship Hiring Team,
• Dear Project Manager Recruitment Manager,
• To the Engineer Search Committee

Do I have to Tailor My Letter?

• Yes. Remember that engineers, developers, and seasoned recruiting professionals will be reading your cover letter. They can tell if you have written a template cover letter.
• You will need to individualize your cover letter for each job you apply for because no two jobs/companies are exactly the same.
• Consider meeting with a member of the Engineering Career Center to help you develop strategies for writing tailored cover letters.
• Consider whether you really need to write a cover letter for every position you apply to. (See “Do I Have to Write a Cover Letter?” section on this page.)

What do I Write About?

• Read the position description carefully. Highlight or isolate key words or phrases in the position description that you know you can do (or are excited to learn to do, or are very interested in doing).
• Thoroughly research the company thoroughly so you can write an genuine response.
• Don’t simply look at the company’s mission website, or “About” page. Use LinkedIn, Twitter, Wikipedia, Glassdoor, as well as search for them in the news to uncover recent and relevant information about them.
• Body/Support paragraph(s): copy bullets directly from the job description into the body of your cover letter and connect them with specific examples from your experiences, to highlight alignment with what the employer is seeking.
• Do not simply copy/paste bullet points from your resume. You do not want to say the exact same thing in two places!
• Describe what makes you qualified for the role based on the specific qualifications that they are seeking. Describe what sets you apart from other applicants.
• Write a conclusion with an invitation to be contacted at any time for any additional questions. Detail your enthusiasm again for the copy and/or position you are applying for.

Cover Letter Examples

• Notice how the position description (for a contract developer) is located at the bottom of the document.
• Notice how there is similar language in the position description that was also used in the cover letter.
• This is a good cover letter length for use in email applications, applications with a text box, or even to use as a LinkedIn message.

Traditional Cover Letter Example

• Notice how the letter is formatted (location of contact information, location of company address, greeting salutation, date, etc.).
• Notice the length of the letter, it does not exceed one page.
• Notice the overall tone of the letter, it conveys enthusiasm for the position by using strong words such as “passion” and “fascinated” to describe the interest in the position and in science generally.

Cover Letter Guide

The Engineering Career Center Cover Letter Guide contains cover letter examples and detailed directions on how to format your cover letters.

Need Cover Letter Help? Book an Appointment

Conducting your search, following up with contacts & employers, navigating the interview process.

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Business Connect

Business career center.

Welcome! The Business Career Center provides guidance and support to UIC Business students looking for internship opportunities or full-time positions upon graduation.

We help you explore, engage and experience

The UIC Business Career Center is open with all resources available to you, including advising, workshops, job and internship opportunities, career fairs, and more. Our team of experienced career coaches are here to help you learn the skills that you need to find the right business career. We help you translate your classroom experiences to the workplace.

The Business Career Center has switched to Handshake . Handshake is now the Business Career Center's online career resource for business students.

Get In Touch Heading link Copy link

• Calendar icon Schedule an Appointment
• Check icon Getting Started with Handshake
• Phone icon Handshake Mobile App

Explore Heading link Copy link

How do I learn more? Why Business? Where do I start? Who can I speak with?

Before you can figure out where you want to go, it’s important to know where you are starting from. Everyone has had experiences which contain clues as to their best career fit. Start by exploring your career options and assessing your interests. We can help you explore.

Career Exploration Guide

As a student, exploring careers can help you make better informed decisions when selecting an academic major, applying for internships, and crafting your overall academic experience.

• Download Career Exploration
• Focus2Career Assessment

Analyze how your interests, skills and personality fit within certain occupations. Email [email protected] for access.

Alumni Connections

Group-style informational interviews where you can talk with an alum about their career path, current position and more.

Career Exploration and Overview Workshop

For students who would like to learn more about the different business majors and how they connect with different career paths/interests. Additionally, you can gain insight on the tools and resources that the Business Career Center has available to help you through your exploration process.

• Upcoming Sessions

Engage Heading link Copy link

How can I stand out from the crowd? What does it take to be a competitive candidate?

To become a competitive candidate who employers want to hire, you need to actively engage in preparing for your career. You should have a resume that has been reviewed, conducted interview prep, know how to present yourself, and understand job search strategies. We can help you engage.

• Resume Guide

Use this as a tool to create and enhance your resume.

Resume Workshop

Business students can register for these workshops where we will review how to build a strong and competitive resume. Whether you are a student who has never created one or if you’d like to enhance your resume, sign up for our session.

• Upcoming Workshops

Schedule an Appointment with a Career Coach

Our team of experienced career coaches are here to help you learn the skills that you need to find the right business career. We help you translate your classroom experiences to the workplace.

• Schedule an Appointment

Cover Letters

Attend a “Writing Effective Cover Letters” workshop. This workshop will help you craft high-impact cover letters which will grab employers’ attention and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Elevator Pitch

"preparing your pitch" workshop.

Whether you use it when meeting someone in an elevator, while networking, or meeting employers at a career fair, it’s important to be prepared with a “pitch” to introduce yourself. In this group advising session you will learn about different types of pitches, how to create an effective pitch, and have the opportunity to practice your pitch.

Intern Ready: Pitch Out

If you would like to practice your Elevator Pitch or currently working on your Intern Ready Badge these 15-minute time slots allow you to deliver your Elevator Pitch and receive feedback from a career coach.

Interviewing

Mastering your virtual interviews.

Learn how to prepare for virtual interviews as well as strategies for demonstrating your fit for the job. Join us for this opportunity to learn and practice your virtual interviewing skills!

Mock Interviews

During Mock Interviews, professionals from the Chicago Business Community conduct practice interviews and provide detailed feedback. For tips on interviewing, please download our Interviewing Guide.

What is the Intern Ready Badge?

Students actively looking for an internship can earn the Intern Ready Badge to make an impact on employers.

The Intern Ready Badge is composed of three steps: Resume, Elevator Pitch and Mock Interview. All must be completed to earn the badge. Feedback is provided by a Business Career Center Coach through one-on-one or online appointments.

You must have a resume that is in a similar format to the BCC Resume Guide .

It is important to understand how to introduce yourself at networking events, career fairs, interviews, and more. A strong elevator pitch tells others about your unique skills, experiences, and career goals.

Interview Skills

Having strong interviewing skills is essential to obtaining an internship.

Experience Heading link Copy link

How do I get an internship or full-time job?

The Business Career Center brings employers (recruiters) to campus to meet and hire our business students. Employers attend specialized and general virtual career fairs during which they are actively looking to hire students. Our career coaches can also help you maximize your internship and job search strategies. Having an internship experience is the best way to find out if your career choice is the right fit. We can help you experience.

Business Internship Program

Internships provide excellent learning experiences in which students can grow their business knowledge, professional skills, and apply classroom learning to real world settings. To receive academic credit for an internship or major-related job experience, students must work for a minimum of ten weeks for ten to forty hours per week, or a longer period as specified by the employer.

Credits earned by enrolling in BA 289 do not count towards the 120 hours required for an undergraduate degree. The credits can be used for:

• CPA 150-hour requirement
• 60-hour residence credit requirement for transfer students

The course is a satisfactory/unsatisfactory (S/U) graded course and will not affect a student’s GPA. BA 289 does not meet as a class. The course consists of the student’s work at the internship site, along with a final reflection paper that will be posted and submitted on Blackboard.

To enroll in and successfully complete requirements for BA 289:

Requirements

Complete and submit the Business Internship Student Application . Students will be notified whether their internship has been approved for registration in the course.

Register for BA 289 for 0, 1, 2 or 3 credit hours. Students may choose the number of credit hours according to their needs.

Write and submit the required reflection essay to Blackboard. This assignment must be successfully submitted in order to receive a (S) satisfactory grade.

Please email [email protected] .

A university job site containing internship, entry-level and experienced hire positions. Create your student profile and upload a current resume. Register for relevant workshops.

Internship Prep Workshop

Learn about the “hidden job market,” strategies and resources you can use for a successful internship or job search.

Career Fairs

Preparing for virtual career fairs.

Now is the time to get ready for the specialized virtual career fairs that are taking place throughout the semester. This workshop will cover the logistics of virtual career fairs, help you prepare your elevator pitch, and guide you through the 7 steps for career fair success.”

Attend Business Career Center Career Fairs to meet with recruiters and hiring managers recruiting on-campus for internship/job opportunities. We strongly encourage students to meet with their career coach prior to attending. Please note, attire is business professional.

• Upcoming Career Fairs

On-Campus Interviews

Submit resumes via Handshake to be considered for interviews. Interviews take place in Douglass Hall. It is mandatory that you arrive 10 minutes early to check-in with the Business Career Center in DH 110. Bring hard copies of your resume.

Additional Career Resources Heading link Copy link

Uic library career resources general information.

The UIC Library has additional resources to help you learn more about career exploration, interviewing, and resume writing. They also have an abundance of databases to help with researching various companies and industries.

• UIC Library: General Career Information

LinkedIn Learning

The University of Illinois has contracted with LinkedIn to provide members of the University of Illinois with access to over 1,200 online courses provided by LinkedIn Learning. Access is available today to all students, faculty and staff and titles are broken down into manageable segments to accommodate busy schedules. These video based tutorials are taught by industry experts and available 24/7 for convenient, self-paced learning.

• Explore LinkedIn Learning
• Linkedin Profile Checklist

LinkedIn is a great website to build your professional network, conduct career research, and apply for internship/job opportunities. This checklist will help your profile stand out to employers.

A database of employers, internships, and jobs. Students can access the full site using their UIC email and password.

Upcoming Events Heading link Copy link

Careers in human resources panel, pop - up business career closet, attend a virtual career fair and get hired heading link copy link.

The Business Career Center hosts a variety of job and internship fairs, welcoming top employers from Chicago and beyond seeking full-time hires and interns from UIC Business. Discover exciting opportunities and register for our career fairs and events on UICcareers.com . UIC Business students can double their opportunities to connect with employers by using Handshake to register for other career fairs and events at UIC.

Register for career fairs and events

Career compass heading link copy link, frequently asked questions heading link copy link, i have never met with a career coach in the past and i am not sure how the bcc can support me. where should i begin.

Attend one of our “ Getting Started with the Business Career Center ” presentations. We will provide you with an overview of our resources and services.

Are you only accepting virtual appointments?

We are offering in-person and virtual appointments.

I am not sure what I would like to do after I graduate? I am not even sure what I would like to major in, what should I do?

You should begin exploring different careers in business. Review the Career Exploration Guide and attend a Career Exploration Workshop . You will also want to schedule an appointment with a Career Coach.

I need help with my resume. I am not sure how to create one or I am not sure if mine looks good, what should I do?

Attend a Resume Building Workshop and review our Resume Guide . Afterwards, schedule an appointment with a career coach for a resume review.

Are cover letters important? How can I learn more about cover letters?

Yes, cover letters are particularly important as they help provide employers with additional information about your skillset, background and interest in their company. Sign up for one of our Writing Effective Cover Letter workshops .

I need help with finding an internship. How can I find an internship? Where should I apply?

Attend one of our Internship and Job Search Strategies workshops . Learn more about the different strategies to find an internship. You can find and apply for internships on UICcareers.com , external sites like Linkedin, Glassdoor, Indeed, and even on an employer’s website. You should also schedule an appointment with a Career Coach

I need a job. Can you help me?

If you are looking for a part-time or on-campus position, then please reach out to the Office of Student Employment . If you are looking for a full-time job, then please refer to the above information about our Internship/Job Search Strategies Workshop, Career Fairs, and Information Sessions.

I need help preparing for internship/job interviews. Can someone help me with that?

Yes! We encourage you to attend a Mastering Your Virtual Interview workshop . Additionally, you can do a Mock Interview with our office. You can pre-record one at UICcareers.com or schedule a live one with a Career Coach. Call our office at (312) 996-5139 for additional information and assistance.

When can I attend the career fair? How can I register for it?

You can attend one of our virtual career fair s online. You must register for them at UICcareers.com . We strongly suggest that you attend a Preparing for Virtual Career Fair workshop prior to attending the career fair.

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Tips on creating your nursing student resume.

Your resume is one of the most important documents used in the job search. Nursing students and new graduates should limit their resumes to one to two pages. It is important to customize your resume by specifically tailoring it to each position you apply for.  Your resume is your best chance at standing out to an employer so make sure it is easy to read and well organized. 

Many employers spend less than a minute visually scanning your resume before entering it into a computer program that searches for specific terms or phrases that they find important. These keywords are likely found in the job description. 

Your resume should include the following sections:

• Name (in bold and slighlty larger font)
• Home address 
• Phone number
• Email address (make sure it is professsional!)
• Briefly summarize who you are and what your career objective is
• Example: Patient-focused CNA and ambitious nursing student with 2 years of healthcare experience seeking nurse internships at XYZ hospital.
• Do not include high school; only post-secondary education
• GPA isn't required, but you can include if over 3.0/4.0
• Include name of hospital/facility and unit.
• Description of duties and clinical hours are not necessary
• Does not need to be directly related to nursing
• Include student (e.g.  Student Council, Student Nurses Association) or outside organizations (e.g. hospitals, doctor's office, clinics)
• Only those that are current and up-to-date 
• Graduating students can include thier NCLEX test date if known

Additional resume and cover letter writing tips:

• UIC Office of Career Services: https://careerservices.uic.edu/students/resumes-cvs-cover-letters/
• Nurse.org : https://nurse.org/resources/nursing-resume/

Contact Tula Georgopoulos [email protected] for one-on-one resume writing help or to find out when the next resume workshop will take place!

View sample resumes below

Additional Resources

• Prelicensure Resume Example 1
• Prelicensure Resume Example 2
• Prelicensure Resume Example 3
• Prelicensure Resume Example 4
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•  Contacts

Student Affairs

The Career Center

Career pathways ⌄, professional development advice ⌄, jobs and internships ⌄, pre-health at illinois ⌄, resources for international students ⌄, how to write a resume, purpose of your resume.

Your resume is a document that outlines your experiences—professional, academic, extracurricular —and the skills you have acquired as a result.

Think of your resume as an advertisement for yourself. A strong resume should demonstrate your excellent written communication skills and make the reader want to interview you.  

What if I don't have a lot of experience yet?

A resume is always a work in progress, and students who start early benefit from improving and refining the document over time. It is good to keep your resume updated regularly to reflect new experiences, ensuring that an up-to-date resume is available whenever necessary.

You never know when and where your resume will be needed.

Not necessarily.

There is no right and wrong when it comes to resume content and format. Each resume is as unique as the individual it represents. It is up to you to select the appropriate content that best highlights your skills for the employment you hope to acquire, and then effectively communicate your qualifications in a format that is clear and easy to read.

Tips for Writing Your Resume

• Proofread carefully to ensure correct spelling and grammar.
• Keep verb tenses consistent throughout. Use present tense for current activities and employment. 
• Use past tense for activities and employment not presently held.
• Avoid the use of first and third person pronouns, such as “I,” “he,” or “she.” 
• Phrases, rather than complete sentences, are generally most effective. 
• Use a variety of action verbs to bring your skills and experiences to life. 
• Avoid using each verb or adjective more than once. 
• Spell out all acronyms the first time they are used, followed by the acronym in parentheses. Thereafter, in the same document you may use the acronym alone.
• Industry-specific jargon should be used sparingly or in a context that the average person could understand. The person reading your resume may not be an expert in your field (they might be an HR manager, for example).
• Use professional language and tone
• If bringing copies of your resume to a career fair, networking event, or interview, be sure they are of high quality.
• While it is not necessary to purchase special paper, if you choose to do so, use neutral colors such as white or cream.
• If you are including a cover letter, it should be printed on the same type of paper as your resume.
• Have your resume reviewed multiple times. This gives you varied insights and multiple perspectives. The Career Center provides opportunities to have your resume reviewed.  
• Faculty, academic advisors, family, and friends can also provide good insight.

Formatting Your Resume

• Take advantage of white space. Use it as a mechanism to appropriately convey emphasis and organization to your information and skills. 
• Be consistent with alignment and appropriately use left, center, and right alignment.
• Make use of bold, underline, and italics to emphasize different aspects of your resume, such as headings and titles. 
• Special fonts, layouts, and images or graphics are often problematic for other people's computers. They may not render properly, might be rejected by Applicant Tracking System scanners, and may not be read correctly by accessibility software like screen readers. You don't know what's on the receiving end, so keep it simple!
• Don't include a headshot photo unless specifically requested in the job ad or expected by the industry.
• Pre-made templates are often the culprit for introducing unusual colors, fonts, graphics, and layouts. We usually recommend avoiding the templates that come with word processing or design software for this reason.
• The length of your resume depends on your degree level, academic major, and number of relevant experiences you have conducted.   
• Rather than being creative in the design and format of your resume, demonstrate your creativity in the content you choose and the way you describe it.

Not sure if you need a resume or a CV? Check out our Resume vs. CV guide .

Customizing Your Resume: Consider Your Audience and Reader

• Investigate industry standards and each potential employer. Consider preferences for length, format, and content of your resume. 
• Be sure to follow special instructions for supplemental application materials. Provide all documents requested, and determine if appropriate to send additional, e.g. reference list.
• If possible, save all of your documents in one PDF and attach them to your application.
• A potential employer typically spends around 30 seconds initially reviewing a resume. Therefore, it is important to carefully select experiences that emphasize the skills most relevant to your desired position. As you make your choices, remember to stress quality over quantity.
• Review the job description and consider the responsibilities for each position you apply to. Consider the perspective of the potential employer, and what the organization would desire in the ideal candidate for the position. Make changes to your resume accordingly.
• Reflect upon your specific experiences that demonstrate the skills and credentials listed in the position announcement.
• Think about using words from the job posting, highlighting different relevant coursework, or using example projects or outcomes that more closely match that specific position's requirements or job duties. The changes you make may be small, but the impact could be huge!

Title Related Resources

• Resume/Cover Letter/LinkedIn Review Services
• Action Words (pdf)
• Sample Resumes (pdf)
• Resume vs. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Sample Curriculum Vitae (pdf)

• Contact ECS
• Schedule an appointment

Downloadable Resume Samples

Review the samples below to get an idea of what content to include and how to organize information on your resume. You can even download a sample and update it with your own content.

Important Notes:

• These samples are not exact representations of every potential role within an industry or engineering discipline.
• Do not plagiarize the sample content or ever include any false or exaggerated information on your resume.
• Contact Engineering Career Services if you need help identifying experiences to include on your resume.

Resume Samples:

• Business Process or Consulting Resume Sample
• Design or Manufacturing Resume Sample
• Researcher, Lab Tech or Scientist Resume Sample
• Programming, Software Engineering, Computation Resume Sample

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Resume collection.

We offer the resume collection option throughout the year. So for those employers who are interested in hiring students or alumni outside of the normal recruiting period, the CSO will share information about the employment opportunity, collect, and prescreen application materials and provide those materials to you so that you may review the materials and interview at your convenience.

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You may request OCI participation or resume collection via Symplicity, by completing our OCI Recruiting Brochure and Registration Form.

• Visit UIC Law's Symplicity Site
• Download the OCI Brochure & Registration Form