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Career Center

Resumes, Cover Letters & Additional Correspondence

Resumes

The resume is often the first thing that an employer will use to evaluate you. It is extremely important that it is an effective “advertisement” of your skills, knowledge and experience. What's most relevant and most recent is what's most important.

Your resume is a critical item in determining whether or not you will receive an interview. Thus, it should be a flawless, well thought out, and effective sales tool for your job search.

Resume Guide
Winning Resume Writing in 15 Minutes
Winning Resumes for First-Year Students
VMock Logo (Link Opens In New Tab)

VMock is an online resume review platform available to all currently-matriculated, degree-seeking Villanova students. Villanova utilizes VMock to help students of all majors and class years craft professional resumes.

VMock analyzes a student’s current resume and offers personalized feedback.

Once you upload your resume, you’ll receive:

  • Feedback based on a database of Villanova resumes and best-practice formats
  • An assessment of how well you market your skill set
  • Bullet-by-bullet suggestions for accurately reflecting your coursework and experiences
  • A resume score based on data accumulated from all Villanova resume entries

The Villanova Career Center recommends using VMock to score your resume before coming in for an appointment. While VMock is not a substitute for an in-person resume review, it will help you better understand what aspects of your resume may need attention and how to correctly format a resume.

Cover Letters

Many employers require cover letters and resumes as part of the job application process. 

A cover letter serves an important purpose in your application. It presents your interest for the position and why you should be hired. Your cover letter is where you can show your passion for the position, highlight your knowledge of the company, and make connections between the position and your relevant qualifications.

Cover Letter Guide
Cover Letter Example
Cover Letter for Experienced Candidates

Additional Correspondence

As with any professional correspondence, your letter may be the first thing a potential employer uses to evaluate you. Before you begin any letter, it is important to know what purpose it serves. Cover Letters, Thank you Letters and any other correspondence tell potential employers about your professionalism, competence and personality. The form and content of your letter tell the reader that you have given time and consideration to the application process.

Thank You Notes

  • Express sincere appreciation
  • Draw attention to being a strong "match"
  • Refer to something that was discussed during the interview
  • Reiterate your interest in position/organization
  • Provide information that wasn't previously given

Acceptance Letters

  • Confirm and accept your employment decision
  • Confirm any logistics
  • Express your appreciation for the opportunity

Networking Letters

  • Introduce the purpose of your letter
  • Discuss your background skills and career interests
  • Request an opportunity for an informational meeting
  • Express your appreciation

Withdrawal Letter

  • State decision concisely with brief explanation
  • Express appreciation for employer's consideration and courtesy

Rejection Letter

  • Be professional
  • Acknowledge the offer
  • Convey thoughtful consideration
  • Express appreciation