For positions in education, clinical research, physician work, and certain science and publishing positions, a curriculum vitae (CV) is frequently required in lieu of a resume. Curriculum vitae (CV) is Latin for “course of life,” and a CV is a much more detailed account of one’s life than a resume.
The CV, in contrast to the resume, is usually longer and more detailed. It will include not only education and previous jobs, but also details such as specialized classes taken, publications, special licenses or affiliations, grants received, and any other relevant information to the position for which you are applying.
Not only where one studied but also what one studied are important considerations in academia and research positions. The number of publications or conferences one has presented at, particularly in colleges, can be major selling points. Because many colleges expect their professors to publish, a CV must include a publication list.
Education is usually listed as more than just a location and a degree; it must also include brief descriptions of courses that one considers to be particularly useful in one’s field. It’s also important to consider the types of experience one has had in previous jobs, both paid and unpaid. If a math teacher, for example, spent time tutoring blind students, that experience should be listed on the CV. Such knowledge demonstrates the teacher’s versatility in providing alternative explanations for visually impaired students.
Many students have the chance to study with “big names” in their fields. Participating in a research project with someone well-known in one’s field is valuable information to include in a CV.
In addition, most experts advise including any awards, grants, fellowships, or scholarships received in a CV. The goal of a resume is to get noticed with as few words as possible. The goal of a CV is to draw attention to one’s diverse experience. The length of the CV is less important, and most people expect it to be much longer than a traditional resume. A well-filled CV of two to four pages in length is expected, but it should not resemble an autobiography.
A CV does not have to include all work experience. Typically, one’s CV should be tailored to his or her chosen field. It is usually not necessary to list unrelated work experience unless it is somehow related to the field. If more information about one’s background is needed, such details can be provided during an interview.
A cover letter should be included with the CV. The cover letter should be no longer than one page. Work experience can be mentioned briefly, but the majority of references should be to the CV. Relevant information, such as contact information, should also be included on the CV.
If you’re having trouble creating a CV, there are some fantastic free templates available online that can make the process go more smoothly. Also, if you have friends with CVs, be sure to ask to see them so you can get a sense of how the process works. There are also excellent books on creating eye-catching CVs that can assist one in becoming a skilled CV writer.