Writing a Cover Letter and Résumé

The ability to write an effective cover letter and résumé shows the reader that you are focused and serious about your goals and future. Whether for a job, scholarship application, or college application, presenting yourself and your strengths in a positive light through a cover letter and résumé will help you achieve your goals. You should strive to keep a current, updated résumé on hand as you progress through your academic and professional careers. As you gain life experiences, knowledge, and skills, add these to your résumé, and then modify content when you need to tailor the document to a specific applicaiton. Should you happen to save earlier versions of your résumé, with time you will be able to see how your goals and experiences have changed as you go through life.