Writing an Effective Resume Career Services8 Kerr Administration Building737-4085http://oregonstate.edu/career

Overview of Career ServicesIndividual Career CounselingDrop-insWorkshopsCareer Assessment ToolsComputer LabMock InterviewsCareer Resource LibraryCareer FairsBeaver RecruitingJob ListingsResume MatchOn-campus InterviewsCo-op and Internship ProgramNational Student ExchangePeace CorpsEquipment/Classroom UsageVCR/DVDFlat Screen TVDigital Video Camera

AgendaPurpose of a resumeResume formatsSections of a resumeWhat not to include in a resumeReferences

Purpose of a ResumeIntroduction to employerPersonal advertisementGet you an interview

Megan Riley

777 Monroe

Corvallis, OR 97330

OBJECTIVE:To obtan a challenging position as an accountant with Chevron.

EDUCATION:Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

Major: Accounting

Minor: Spanish

Expected Graduation: June 2001, B.S degree

GPA: 3.0

University of Salamanca Salamanca, Spain

September-December 97

Study abroad with IES

Related Classwork: Accounting 101, Dynamic Marketing, Business Administration

Senior Project: An Analytical Perspective on Accounting Strategies in Small Start-Ups.

WORK

EXPERIENCE: Hot Dog On a Stick

Eugene, OR

June 99-Today

Fed customers, jumped on lemons to make lemonade.

Oregon State Archaelogy Lab Corvallis, OR February 98- March 99

Research Assistant

Translated historical documents, analyzed ceramic pottery, looked up books in library for staff

Papa Johns Pizza

Corvallis, OR

June 97-July 98

Manager

Washed dishes, made pizzas, cleaned counters, served customers, managed cash registers, helped employees.

ACTIVITIES: President of OSU accounting society, member of Corvallis Community Business Association, Secretary for Student Involvments Committee on Committees

SKILLS: Fluent in Spanish, knowledgeable in basic Italian, experienced with all Office 2000 applications, able to type 65 WPM,

INTERESTS: Hiking, running, camping, music, photografy, travel, foreign films.

Basic Formats for ResumesChronological Reverse Date OrderFunctional Grouped by Skill CategoryCombinationCurriculum Vitae (CV)

CHARLES BAY

(503) 380-2364 BAY@EMAIL.COM

4918 SW Technology LOOP # 65 Corvallis, Oregon 97333

EDUCATION

Oregon State University

Corvallis, Oregon

Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering

Minor in Construction Engineering

Expected Graduation

December 2003

COURSEWORK

Professional-Level Coursework: Civil Engineering Materials, Structural Theory I & II, Fluid Mechanics, and Hydraulic Engineering

EXPERIENCE

5/01-1/02 Nelsen & Associates, Inc.

Portland, Oregon

Transportation Planning Summer Intern

Collected field data for existing conditions traffic analysis

Applied traffic analysis tools to evaluate data and produce useful results

Communicated results through written reports and through active participation in meetings with project team and clients

Contributed to project management tasks including preparing project proposals and client updates

8/995/01Summit University Plant Services Newberg, Oregon

Building Repair & Maintenance Work-Study

Personally responsible for addressing, planning, and properly modifying structures

Strategized with project manager to ensure an efficient project as well as an effective outcome

Instructed and trained others to perform a variety of repair techniques

Summers 9900Treeline Masonry, Inc.

Redmond, Oregon

Mason Apprentice

Responsible for assembling, preparing, and organizing job site materials for efficient job-site management

Managed time effectively in administering to multiple tasks

Learned from experienced masons the tools, techniques, and stratagem necessary to skillfully construct with masonry

COMPUTER SKILLS

Platforms & Applications: AutoCad 2000, Excel, PowerPoint, Corel Draw, MS - Word, SAP 2000, ADAMS, Windows, Internet Explorer

ACTIVITIES

Engineering: ITE Student Chapter Member and Secretary (9/01-present)

Outdoor: Camping, Wakeboarding, and Playing Soccer

2

Mark E. Jones

200 NE Lombard Street

Portland, Oregon 97202

(503) 555-0000

mjones@email.com

OBJECTIVE

Seeking an administrative role in health care and education with an emphasis on community education

COMMUNITY REALTIONS AND TRAINING

Served as liaison to high school and college classes; guest lecturer on health and welfare issues

Presented college orientation programs to students and recruitment status briefings to staff members

Graduated from and facilitated 20 smoking-cessation classes

SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATIVE SKILLS

Coordinated in-house and inter-agency planning of extended medical care and adoptions

Learned budgetary intricacies of public assistance; supervised 10 technicians; authorized monthly disbursements of thousands of dollars

Prepared comprehensive reports and recommendations for agency and court use

COUNSELING AND INTERVIEWING SKILLS

Provided crisis management and long-term counseling with individuals and families of diverse backgrounds and status

Counseled individuals and groups dealing with issues of stress, illness and disabilities, and life transitions

Conducted investigative interviewing and in-depth personal assessments

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Medical Social WorkerKaiser Hospitals, Portland, Oregon2000-present

Counselor/Child Abuse InvestigatorChildrens Services Division, Portland, Oregon1996-2000

Intake Counselor/Case ManagerMultnomah County Social Services, Portland, Oregon1994-1996

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Member, The National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

Co-chair of National Conference 2001, Association for Community Organization and Social Administration (ACOSA)

Co-chair, Northwest Alliance for Social Issues and Community Education (NASICE)

EDUCATION

Master of Social WorkPortland State University, Portland, Oregon2000

Bachelor of Arts in SociologyOregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon1997

Components of a ResumeNecessary Information:Contact informationEducationExperience (tasks, skills learned)

Optional Information:ObjectiveCourse highlightsProjects/researchComputer skillsForeign languagesHonors/awardsVolunteer work / community serviceActivities/InterestsMany more

Contact InformationNameAddress: Campus/PermanentTelephone numberEmail address

Megan Riley

777 Monroe

Corvallis, OR 97330

OBJECTIVE:To obtan a challenging position as an accountant with Chevron.

EDUCATION:Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

Major: Accounting

Minor: Spanish

Expected Graduation: June 2001, B.S degree

GPA: 3.0

University of Salamanca Salamanca, Spain

September-December 97

Study abroad with IES

Related Classwork: Accounting 101, Dynamic Marketing, Business Administration

Senior Project: An Analytical Perspective on Accounting Strategies in Small Start-Ups.

WORK

EXPERIENCE: Hot Dog On a Stick

Eugene, OR

June 99-Today

Fed customers, jumped on lemons to make lemonade.

Oregon State Archaelogy Lab Corvallis, OR February 98- March 99

Research Assistant

Translated historical documents, analyzed ceramic pottery, looked up books in library for staff

Papa Johns Pizza

Corvallis, OR

June 97-July 98

Manager

Washed dishes, made pizzas, cleaned counters, served customers, managed cash registers, helped employees.

ACTIVITIES: President of OSU accounting society, member of Corvallis Community Business Association, Secretary for Student Involvments Committee on Committees

SKILLS: Fluent in Spanish, knowledgeable in basic Italian, experienced with all Office 2000 applications, able to type 65 WPM,

INTERESTS: Hiking, running, camping, music, photografy, travel, foreign films.

ObjectiveConvey a match between you and the positionCommunicate what you have to offerIdentify skills that will benefit the organization/industryTailor your objective to the job/field

Example: Seeking an internship with XYZ Corporation in which I can utilize my proven leadership abilities and recognized customer service skills.

EducationList formal education with the highest degree firstInclude:InstitutionCity, StateDegree Major titleGraduation dateOptional Information:Minor/ConcentrationDeans List Grade Point AverageExchange programs*Dissertation or Thesis*Honors, awards, scholarships*

ExperienceFull-time, part-time, volunteer, practicum, co-op, internship, clinical, and field experienceList in reverse chronological orderMay use Related Experience sectionNeed to include:Name of employerCity, State, and dates of employment/participationPosition titlesPosition description

Position DescriptionDemonstrate achievements, knowledge, skills, highlights, and responsibilities related to the positionUse action verbs: use past and present tense consistently and accuratelyBreak up large blocks of texts with bullets

Megan Riley

777 Monroe

Corvallis, OR 97330

OBJECTIVE:To obtan a challenging position as an accountant with Chevron.

EDUCATION:Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

Major: Accounting

Minor: Spanish

Expected Graduation: June 2001, B.S degree

GPA: 3.0

University of Salamanca Salamanca, Spain

September-December 97

Study abroad with IES

Related Classwork: Accounting 101, Dynamic Marketing, Business Administration

Senior Project: An Analytical Perspective on Accounting Strategies in Small Start-Ups.

WORK

EXPERIENCE: Hot Dog On a Stick

Eugene, OR

June 99-Today

Fed customers, jumped on lemons to make lemonade.

Oregon State Archaelogy Lab Corvallis, OR February 98- March 99

Research Assistant

Translated historical documents, analyzed ceramic pottery, looked up books in library for staff

Papa Johns Pizza

Corvallis, OR

June 97-July 98

Manager

Washed dishes, made pizzas, cleaned counters, served customers, managed cash registers, helped employees.

ACTIVITIES: President of OSU accounting society, member of Corvallis Community Business Association, Secretary for Student Involvments Committee on Committees

SKILLS: Fluent in Spanish, knowledgeable in basic Italian, experienced with all Office 2000 applications, able to type 65 WPM,

INTERESTS: Hiking, running, camping, music, photografy, travel, foreign films.

Accomplishment StatementsTwo parts: The results or benefits that came as a result of your work. These results/benefits should be stated in terms of the value added, and in as tangible and quantified a manner as possible. The action you took to achieve those benefits/results. (What steps you took or what techniques you used)

Accomplishment StatementsBenefitsMuch better awareness of the skills and abilities that will be the foundation for your job search. Concrete credibility for everything you claim in the way of qualifications and abilities. You will have simple documentation of the value you can bring to an employer. Greater confidence in presenting yourself to potential employers. You will understand better that you are not "asking for a job," but rather you are offering a contribution to an employer.

Accomplishment Statements Increased profits Reduced errors Reduced losses Improved teamwork Made things easier Sped things up Foresaw a problem Found an easier solution Received an awardFound a new opportunityAccomplished more with the same Prevented a problem Provided new resources Developed a new procedure Overcame obstacles

Examples"Saved $60 a year in service charges by proposing and acquiring a checking account at a new bank for College Council." " Instituted residence hall tutoring program that increased average overall GPA from a 2.9 to a 3.3." " Increased membership in ABC student club by 50% through creative advertising." "Presented training for new campus-wide email system to approximately 30% of the student body."

Special CategoriesCourse highlightsProjects/researchResearch awardsCertificationsComputer skillsForeign language proficiencySpecial skillsVolunteering / community involvementLeadership activitiesHonors, scholarships, awardsActivities, interests

Megan Riley

777 Monroe

Corvallis, OR 97330

OBJECTIVE:To obtan a challenging position as an accountant with Chevron.

EDUCATION:Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

Major: Accounting

Minor: Spanish

Expected Graduation: June 2001, B.S degree

GPA: 3.0

University of Salamanca Salamanca, Spain

September-December 97

Study abroad with IES

Related Classwork: Accounting 101, Dynamic Marketing, Business Administration

Senior Project: An Analytical Perspective on Accounting Strategies in Small Start-Ups.

WORK

EXPERIENCE: Hot Dog On a Stick

Eugene, OR

June 99-Today

Fed customers, jumped on lemons to make lemonade.

Oregon State Archaelogy Lab Corvallis, OR February 98- March 99

Research Assistant

Translated historical documents, analyzed ceramic pottery, looked up books in library for staff

Papa Johns Pizza

Corvallis, OR

June 97-July 98

Manager

Washed dishes, made pizzas, cleaned counters, served customers, managed cash registers, helped employees.

ACTIVITIES: President of OSU accounting society, member of Corvallis Community Business Association, Secretary for Student Involvments Committee on Committees

SKILLS: Fluent in Spanish, knowledgeable in basic Italian, experienced with all Office 2000 applications, able to type 65 WPM,

INTERESTS: Hiking, running, camping, music, photografy, travel, foreign films.

Lets PracticePlease take a minute and write an accomplishment statement using your own educational and/or professional experiences.

Interests and ActivitiesAssociation membershipsAcademic/social clubsAthletic teamsHobbies

Include offices elected to and contributions made to the organizationSelect your interests and activities carefully

What NOT to IncludeSalary requirements or previous salariesName or contact information of supervisorsPersonal information (e.g. birth date, marital status, health status, picture, etc.)References - place them on a separate sheet

Note: if applying for jobs outside of the US, these may not necessarily apply do your research!

Points to RememberUse vocabulary of your field or industryUse concise phrasesUse numbers to quantify achievementsAvoid long paragraphsOmit personal pronounsAction verbs

Megan Riley

777 Monroe

Corvallis, OR 97330

OBJECTIVE:To obtan a challenging position as an accountant with Chevron.

EDUCATION:Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

Major: Accounting

Minor: Spanish

Expected Graduation: June 2001, B.S degree

GPA: 3.0

University of Salamanca Salamanca, Spain

September-December 97

Study abroad with IES

Related Classwork: Accounting 101, Dynamic Marketing, Business Administration

Senior Project: An Analytical Perspective on Accounting Strategies in Small Start-Ups.

WORK

EXPERIENCE: Hot Dog On a Stick

Eugene, OR

June 99-Today

Fed customers, jumped on lemons to make lemonade.

Oregon State Archaelogy Lab Corvallis, OR February 98- March 99

Research Assistant

Translated historical documents, analyzed ceramic pottery, looked up books in library for staff

Papa Johns Pizza

Corvallis, OR

June 97-July 98

Manager

Washed dishes, made pizzas, cleaned counters, served customers, managed cash registers, helped employees.

ACTIVITIES: President of OSU accounting society, member of Corvallis Community Business Association, Secretary for Student Involvments Committee on Committees

SKILLS: Fluent in Spanish, knowledgeable in basic Italian, experienced with all Office 2000 applications, able to type 65 WPM,

INTERESTS: Hiking, running, camping, music, photografy, travel, foreign films.

Points to Remember (cont.)Use bolding, italics, and underlining to highlight or separate sectionsMargins should be inch to 1 inchOne page length is standardUse only one side of the paperLaser print on quality paperhttp://oregonstate.edu/career/students/careerguide2005.pdf

CHARLES BAY

(503) 380-2364 BAY@EMAIL.COM

4918 SW Technology LOOP # 65 Corvallis, Oregon 97333

EDUCATION

Oregon State University

Corvallis, Oregon

Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering

Minor in Construction Engineering

Expected Graduation

December 2003

COURSEWORK

Professional-Level Coursework: Civil Engineering Materials, Structural Theory I & II, Fluid Mechanics, and Hydraulic Engineering

EXPERIENCE

5/01-1/02 Nelsen & Associates, Inc.

Portland, Oregon

Transportation Planning Summer Intern

Collected field data for existing conditions traffic analysis

Applied traffic analysis tools to evaluate data and produce useful results

Communicated results through written reports and through active participation in meetings with project team and clients

Contributed to project management tasks including preparing project proposals and client updates

8/995/01Summit University Plant Services Newberg, Oregon

Building Repair & Maintenance Work-Study

Personally responsible for addressing, planning, and properly modifying structures

Strategized with project manager to ensure an efficient project as well as an effective outcome

Instructed and trained others to perform a variety of repair techniques

Summers 9900Treeline Masonry, Inc.

Redmond, Oregon

Mason Apprentice

Responsible for assembling, preparing, and organizing job site materials for efficient job-site management

Managed time effectively in administering to multiple tasks

Learned from experienced masons the tools, techniques, and stratagem necessary to skillfully construct with masonry

COMPUTER SKILLS

Platforms & Applications: AutoCad 2000, Excel, PowerPoint, Corel Draw, MS - Word, SAP 2000, ADAMS, Windows, Internet Explorer

ACTIVITIES

Engineering: ITE Student Chapter Member and Secretary (9/01-present)

Outdoor: Camping, Wakeboarding, and Playing Soccer

2

Mark E. Jones

200 NE Lombard Street

Portland, Oregon 97202

(503) 555-0000

mjones@email.com

OBJECTIVE

Seeking an administrative role in health care and education with an emphasis on community education

COMMUNITY REALTIONS AND TRAINING

Served as liaison to high school and college classes; guest lecturer on health and welfare issues

Presented college orientation programs to students and recruitment status briefings to staff members

Graduated from and facilitated 20 smoking-cessation classes

SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATIVE SKILLS

Coordinated in-house and inter-agency planning of extended medical care and adoptions

Learned budgetary intricacies of public assistance; supervised 10 technicians; authorized monthly disbursements of thousands of dollars

Prepared comprehensive reports and recommendations for agency and court use

COUNSELING AND INTERVIEWING SKILLS

Provided crisis management and long-term counseling with individuals and families of diverse backgrounds and status

Counseled individuals and groups dealing with issues of stress, illness and disabilities, and life transitions

Conducted investigative interviewing and in-depth personal assessments

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Medical Social WorkerKaiser Hospitals, Portland, Oregon2000-present

Counselor/Child Abuse InvestigatorChildrens Services Division, Portland, Oregon1996-2000

Intake Counselor/Case ManagerMultnomah County Social Services, Portland, Oregon1994-1996

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Member, The National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

Co-chair of National Conference 2001, Association for Community Organization and Social Administration (ACOSA)

Co-chair, Northwest Alliance for Social Issues and Community Education (NASICE)

EDUCATION

Master of Social WorkPortland State University, Portland, Oregon2000

Bachelor of Arts in SociologyOregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon1997

ReferencesHave at least three referencesAsk before using someone as a referenceGive resumes to your references and keep them informed of your progressThings to include on reference sheet:Your contact information (same format as on resume is recommended)Name of reference, company or organization, address, phone number, and email address

A Strong Cover LetterTargeted to employers and specific jobsPromotes your abilitiesLooks organized and professionalEnthusiastic and conveys interestClear and concise articulation of skillsError-free

Components of a Cover LetterYour contact informationDateEmployers contact informationSalutationIntroductory paragraphBody of letter: one or more paragraphs connecting your skills to employer needsConclusionClosingSignature, if in paper format

Opening ParagraphWhy are you writing?What position are you applying for?How did you hear of the opening or organization?

Example: Dr. Anderson in the Anthropology Department at Oregon State University recommended that I contact you. I would like to apply for the archaeology internship available in your office.

Campus Box 29293

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR 97330

February 18, 2005

Joanne Johnson

Human Resources Manager

Andersen Consulting

1001 South Beach Way

Portland, OR 97890

Dear Ms. Johnson:

I recently learned that Andersen Consulting is looking for an energetic and dynamic person, capable of thinking creatively, who also possesses experience in business and finance. I am eager for a career in management consulting and am interested in discussing with you how my skills are of value to your organization.

My immersion into the world of business and finance as an intern at Global Financial Advisors has provided valuable preparation for business consulting. As a junior who regularly cold-called CEOs and the owners of successful Portland corporations to persuade them to meet with me, I banked my success on the ability to think creatively, conceptualize on many levels, and communicate crisply. I effectively explained the value my firm could provide and demonstrated my competency in the tax, legal, insurance, and investment realms. I helped clients understand complex ideas in simple terms, motivated them to action, and then cooperated with a team of Global associates to implement our ideas.

My wide-ranging college career has provided me with a combination of skills and experience that are well-suited to the challenges of consulting. My senior ecology thesis involved extensive research, and required me to convey my ideas concisely in an oral presentation and a comprehensive treatise. Several leadership positions in a variety of activities throughout my years at Oregon State demanded that I organize my time and resources efficiently, and assist others to do the same.

My distinctive background has well equipped me with tools that will make me valuable to Anderson.

I would like the opportunity to discuss with you further how my abilities can best benefit your organization. I look forward to speaking with you when I call during the first week in February to arrange a time to meet. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Anne McKay

Enclosure

386 Monroe Avenue

Corvallis, OR 97330

February 20, 2005

Roberta Rogers

Research Manager

Petty Research Inc.

405 County Road

Salem, OR 97504

Dear Ms. Rogers:

A solid and successful record of research in a university agricultural lab and in the field qualifies me perfectly for the agricultural research officer position you have advertised in the Corvallis Gazette.

I have spent the past four and a half years studying agricultural science at Oregon State University and have recently graduated. During my college years, I studied a range of subjects, including field experimentation, plant production, and crop and pasture production. The attached transcript demonstrates the excellent results I achieved in these subjects. I also conducted agronomic research trials, such as one studying the effect of sowing time on the growth of lupines, and the effect that various periods of shade had on the growth of radishes.

My written and verbal communication skills are exemplary. For my botany course I was required to give seminars on various topics, including most recently Plant Responses to Elevated Carbon Dioxide, for which I earned a top grade. In 2001, I achieved a Certificate of Excellence in recognition for high achievement in presentation skills.

Throughout my coursework I have gained practical farm experience on a number of properties, including a sheep property, beef property, organic property, and a dairy ranch. I learned about various types of crops (wheat, oats, lucerne, rye corn, triticale, barley, safflower, chickpeas and linseed) and pasture systems (ryegrass and white clover, and barley grass).

I have developed a high level of computer literacy, and am familiar with both PCs and Macintoshes, as well as the major word processing and spreadsheet systems. I have had experience with computer crop modeling systems.

I will call you on Thursday, February 28 to discuss the career opportunity with you. You may also reach me by phoning or faxing 541-555-2934, where an answering machine can take your message if Im not available.

Sincerely,

Pat Johnson

Enclosure

Middle Paragraph(s)Explain interest in working for this employer and reasons for desiring this positionDo NOT iterate entire resume; rather expand on one or two areas that reflect relevant skills learnedEmphasize skills or abilities that relate to the jobExpress confidence and enthusiasm

Campus Box 29293

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR 97330

February 18, 2005

Joanne Johnson

Human Resources Manager

Andersen Consulting

1001 South Beach Way

Portland, OR 97890

Dear Ms. Johnson:

I recently learned that Andersen Consulting is looking for an energetic and dynamic person, capable of thinking creatively, who also possesses experience in business and finance. I am eager for a career in management consulting and am interested in discussing with you how my skills are of value to your organization.

My immersion into the world of business and finance as an intern at Global Financial Advisors has provided valuable preparation for business consulting. As a junior who regularly cold-called CEOs and the owners of successful Portland corporations to persuade them to meet with me, I banked my success on the ability to think creatively, conceptualize on many levels, and communicate crisply. I effectively explained the value my firm could provide and demonstrated my competency in the tax, legal, insurance, and investment realms. I helped clients understand complex ideas in simple terms, motivated them to action, and then cooperated with a team of Global associates to implement our ideas.

My wide-ranging college career has provided me with a combination of skills and experience that are well-suited to the challenges of consulting. My senior ecology thesis involved extensive research, and required me to convey my ideas concisely in an oral presentation and a comprehensive treatise. Several leadership positions in a variety of activities throughout my years at Oregon State demanded that I organize my time and resources efficiently, and assist others to do the same.

My distinctive background has well equipped me with tools that will make me valuable to Anderson.

I would like the opportunity to discuss with you further how my abilities can best benefit your organization. I look forward to speaking with you when I call during the first week in February to arrange a time to meet. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Anne McKay

Enclosure

386 Monroe Avenue

Corvallis, OR 97330

February 20, 2005

Roberta Rogers

Research Manager

Petty Research Inc.

405 County Road

Salem, OR 97504

Dear Ms. Rogers:

A solid and successful record of research in a university agricultural lab and in the field qualifies me perfectly for the agricultural research officer position you have advertised in the Corvallis Gazette.

I have spent the past four and a half years studying agricultural science at Oregon State University and have recently graduated. During my college years, I studied a range of subjects, including field experimentation, plant production, and crop and pasture production. The attached transcript demonstrates the excellent results I achieved in these subjects. I also conducted agronomic research trials, such as one studying the effect of sowing time on the growth of lupines, and the effect that various periods of shade had on the growth of radishes.

My written and verbal communication skills are exemplary. For my botany course I was required to give seminars on various topics, including most recently Plant Responses to Elevated Carbon Dioxide, for which I earned a top grade. In 2001, I achieved a Certificate of Excellence in recognition for high achievement in presentation skills.

Throughout my coursework I have gained practical farm experience on a number of properties, including a sheep property, beef property, organic property, and a dairy ranch. I learned about various types of crops (wheat, oats, lucerne, rye corn, triticale, barley, safflower, chickpeas and linseed) and pasture systems (ryegrass and white clover, and barley grass).

I have developed a high level of computer literacy, and am familiar with both PCs and Macintoshes, as well as the major word processing and spreadsheet systems. I have had experience with computer crop modeling systems.

I will call you on Thursday, February 28 to discuss the career opportunity with you. You may also reach me by phoning or faxing 541-555-2934, where an answering machine can take your message if Im not available.

Sincerely,

Pat Johnson

Enclosure

Persistent, businesslike closing statement Indicate desire for a personal interview Example: I will call you on [date] to discuss this career opportunity with [name of organization].Thank you for consideration

Closing:Sincerely,Sign nameType nameEnclosure

Final Paragraph

Campus Box 29293

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR 97330

February 18, 2005

Joanne Johnson

Human Resources Manager

Andersen Consulting

1001 South Beach Way

Portland, OR 97890

Dear Ms. Johnson:

I recently learned that Andersen Consulting is looking for an energetic and dynamic person, capable of thinking creatively, who also possesses experience in business and finance. I am eager for a career in management consulting and am interested in discussing with you how my skills are of value to your organization.

My immersion into the world of business and finance as an intern at Global Financial Advisors has provided valuable preparation for business consulting. As a junior who regularly cold-called CEOs and the owners of successful Portland corporations to persuade them to meet with me, I banked my success on the ability to think creatively, conceptualize on many levels, and communicate crisply. I effectively explained the value my firm could provide and demonstrated my competency in the tax, legal, insurance, and investment realms. I helped clients understand complex ideas in simple terms, motivated them to action, and then cooperated with a team of Global associates to implement our ideas.

My wide-ranging college career has provided me with a combination of skills and experience that are well-suited to the challenges of consulting. My senior ecology thesis involved extensive research, and required me to convey my ideas concisely in an oral presentation and a comprehensive treatise. Several leadership positions in a variety of activities throughout my years at Oregon State demanded that I organize my time and resources efficiently, and assist others to do the same.

My distinctive background has well equipped me with tools that will make me valuable to Anderson.

I would like the opportunity to discuss with you further how my abilities can best benefit your organization. I look forward to speaking with you when I call during the first week in February to arrange a time to meet. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Anne McKay

Enclosure

386 Monroe Avenue

Corvallis, OR 97330

February 20, 2005

Roberta Rogers

Research Manager

Petty Research Inc.

405 County Road

Salem, OR 97504

Dear Ms. Rogers:

A solid and successful record of research in a university agricultural lab and in the field qualifies me perfectly for the agricultural research officer position you have advertised in the Corvallis Gazette.

I have spent the past four and a half years studying agricultural science at Oregon State University and have recently graduated. During my college years, I studied a range of subjects, including field experimentation, plant production, and crop and pasture production. The attached transcript demonstrates the excellent results I achieved in these subjects. I also conducted agronomic research trials, such as one studying the effect of sowing time on the growth of lupines, and the effect that various periods of shade had on the growth of radishes.

My written and verbal communication skills are exemplary. For my botany course I was required to give seminars on various topics, including most recently Plant Responses to Elevated Carbon Dioxide, for which I earned a top grade. In 2001, I achieved a Certificate of Excellence in recognition for high achievement in presentation skills.

Throughout my coursework I have gained practical farm experience on a number of properties, including a sheep property, beef property, organic property, and a dairy ranch. I learned about various types of crops (wheat, oats, lucerne, rye corn, triticale, barley, safflower, chickpeas and linseed) and pasture systems (ryegrass and white clover, and barley grass).

I have developed a high level of computer literacy, and am familiar with both PCs and Macintoshes, as well as the major word processing and spreadsheet systems. I have had experience with computer crop modeling systems.

I will call you on Thursday, February 28 to discuss the career opportunity with you. You may also reach me by phoning or faxing 541-555-2934, where an answering machine can take your message if Im not available.

Sincerely,

Pat Johnson

Enclosure

Cover Letter TipsAddress letter to a specific person if possibleOne page onlyUse industry buzz wordsFollow through with employerLet them know you have done your homeworkSay something flattering about the organization (e.g.: Energy Plus has an excellent reputation locally for customer satisfaction, and I would like to become part of your customer service team.)

Good Luck!Let us know how else we can help you!

Career Services8 Kerr Administration Building737-4085http://oregonstate.edu/career

*