Students and Alumni

Your resume is often your first impression with an employer. Make it clear, professional and easy to read.

For resume examples, log in to Handshake. Under “Career Center,” select “Resources.”

What to include

Required sections

Contact information
Include your name, one phone number, professional email address, local address and personalized LinkedIn URL.

Education
List Ohio State, your degree, major, minor, GPA and expected graduation date.

Experience and involvement
Include jobs, internships, leadership roles, community service or student organizations. For each entry, list the organization name, your title, location, dates and key accomplishments.

Skills
Highlight technical skills, software knowledge and qualifications relevant to the position.

Optional sections

Add these only if they strengthen your application:

• Relevant coursework
• Objective statement (typically for career expos, not specific job applications)
• Publications or presentations

Resume best practices

Keep your resume clean, focused and results-driven:

• Limit your resume to one page.
• Organize sections clearly with headings.
• List experiences in reverse chronological order.
• Use bullet points for responsibilities and accomplishments.
• Start bullet points with strong action verbs such as managed, developed or analyzed.
• Quantify results when possible (increased sales by 20%, supported 30 members, etc.).
• Use professional fonts such as Times New Roman, Arial or Calibri.
• Proofread carefully and ask a career advisor to review it.

Avoid including high school activities after your first year of college unless they are highly relevant. Be sure to include all relevant experience — including work on a family farm, in food service or other hands-on roles.

Need feedback?

Schedule an appointment with a CFAES career advisor for personalized resume review and guidance.

Must haves 

1. Address a person (e.g. Dear John Doe:)
2. Include person's name, title, address
3. Highlight your qualifications (refer to job description)
4. Thank person for his/her consideration
5. Include salutation (Respectfully or Sincerely)

Preparing well for an interview builds confidence and helps you stand out. Use these steps to make a strong impression.

Before the interview

Research the organization

Take time to understand the company before you meet with them. Review their website and social media channels and talk with contacts in your network. Know their mission, services and recent news.

Know your interviewer

If possible, look up your interviewer on LinkedIn or the company website. Putting a face to a name can help you feel more prepared and comfortable.

Dress professionally

It is better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Wear professional attire such as a suit or blazer with appropriate business wear underneath. Choose something that looks polished and allows you to feel confident and comfortable.

Bring the right materials

Come prepared with:

• Several copies of your resume
• A portfolio or work samples if relevant
• A list of thoughtful questions
• A document or card with your contact information

After the interview

Before you leave, confirm you have contact information for your interviewer.

Follow up within 24 hours with a thank-you message. Reference something specific from your conversation and reaffirm your interest in the position. A professional email is appropriate, though a handwritten note can also leave a strong impression.

Video interview tips

Virtual interviews require the same preparation as in-person meetings.

• Choose a clean, distraction-free background
• Test your camera and audio the day before
• Dress professionally from head to toe
• Prepare questions in advance
• Take notes during the conversation
• Send a professional thank-you email afterward

Strong preparation shows professionalism and respect for the employer’s time and helps you present your best self.

Build relationships that build your future

Networking is about building genuine professional relationships. It’s not just who you know — it’s how you connect, learn and grow together.

One of the best ways to explore a career path is to talk with someone working in that field. Their experience can help you better understand industries, companies and specific roles while giving you insight into your own goals.

What networking really means

Networking is:

• Having conversations that help others learn about your interests and strengths
• Seeking advice and insight from professionals in your field
• Building relationships that benefit both people over time
• Staying connected — not just reaching out when you need a job

Strong networking takes preparation and practice. The more you do it, the more confident you’ll become.

Where to start

Networking can happen in person at career fairs, employer events and conferences, or online through professional platforms like LinkedIn.

Use LinkedIn to:

• Build a strong professional profile
• Connect with alumni and industry professionals
• Explore career paths using the alumni tool
• Engage with companies and organizations

Start small. Reach out. Ask thoughtful questions. Follow up. Relationships built today can open doors tomorrow.