HOW TO
IMPROVE YOUR
VMOCK SCORE
Tips & Resume Samples
Boston University Center for Career Development
Yawkey Center for Student Services | 100 Bay State Road, Sixth Floor | T: 617-353-3590 | E: future@bu.edu
bu.edu/careers | bu-beyond.blog | facebook.com/buccd | @BU_CCD | @TerriersAtWork
RHETT HACKER
hacker@bu.com | 617-555-1234 | Boston, MA | www.linkedin.com/in/rhacker | github.com/rhack
EDUCATION
Boston University | Boston, MA Expected May 2019
B.A. in Computer Science
• GPA: 3.25
Coursework
• Data Structures Analysis of Algorithms Software Engineering
• Networking Essentials Programming Languages Cloud Computing
SKILLS
Programming: proficient in Python, Java, C#, SQL, JavaScript, XML, HTML
Tools: proficient in MongoDB, PyMongo, Git, MySQL, JSON, Flask, Jinja2, Tamarin, Firebase, SQLite3
PROJECTS
Computing Bike-friendly Neighborhoods | Boston University Sep 2017 – present
• Used Python, PyMongo, MongoDB, JSON to co-develop web service using Boston city data sets to measure bike-
friendliness in each Boston neighborhood.
Qizmet | Boston University Jan – May 2017
• Built quiz website using Flask framework with team of four; used Python to parse XML files and create objects
from them; used Jinja2 with HTML to run quizzes; quiz files stored with SQLite3.
Text and Content Similarity Tool | Boston University Sep – Dec 2016
• Coded in Python, developed algorithm to compare multiple sources of written content and determine degree of
similarity of specific words, phrases, prefixes, and suffixes.
EXPERIENCE
Tamarin | Boston, MA Jun – Aug 2017
Customer Support Engineer Intern
• Debugged apps for customers created with the Tamarin platform in C#.
• Found and reported bugs in Tamarin products by writing apps in Android Studio to see if bugs can be duplicated.
Global App Initiative | Boston University Oct 2016 – May 2017
Android Development Intern
• Used Android Studio with Java and XML to program app enabling users to submit questions and receive answers
from professionals at Boston Public Health Commission; used Firebase backend services and Twitter API.
• Led team using GitHub; enabled team members to contribute to project to ensure completion by deadline.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Department of Computer Science | Boston University Sep 2017 – present
Course Assistant
• Tutor 500+ students in Python & Java concepts, assembly language, data structures, and fundamental algorithms;
critiqued and graded homework for all students within four days.
ACTIVITIES & LEADERSHIP
B.U. Learning Resource Network | Boston University Jun – Aug 2016
Artemis Project Coordinator
• Designed lesson plan with three coordinators for 5-week summer program to teach and mentor 9
th
grade girls in
computer science and engineering.
Vmock score = 80
WORD TO THE WISE
Focus more on VMock’s practical feedback, and less on the score.
• VMock’s standards are high and strict, so don’t worry about scoring 100 before sending it out. The resume samples
created by our oce are very good and score in the 80’s. If your score is in the 70’s, you’re well on your way to a great
resume.
• Keep in mind that VMock is not meant to replace real-person feedback—you can still have your resume reviewed by
BU career sta. But use VMock first and make changes based on its feedback. That way your in-person review can
focus more on substance and nuance.
• VMock gives you feedback specific to your resume in both System Feedback and Bullet-Level Feedback. System
Feedback evaluates all aspects of your resume. Bullet-Level Feedback shows how select criteria—those relevant to the
way you describe your experience—apply to each bullet point, one by one.
For maximum benefit, check out VMock’s in-app guides.
• Within System Feedback, guides are provided for all elements of the Impact and Competencies modules. There’s also a
guide within Bullet-Level Feedback for additional help on writing great bullet points.
• To access the guides, simply click the “see guidance” button wherever it appears.
When using VMock’s feedback, make as many changes as you can at one time before uploading it again.
• You get 10 uploads per year, so if you’re only making small changes each time, you’ll quickly run out.
HELP WITH SPECIFIC TOPICS
Impact
Action-Oriented
Specifics
Avoided Words
Presentation
Number of Pages
Essential Sections
Overall Format: Date Formatting
Overall Format: Section Spacing
Overall Format: Bullet Check
Section-specific: Personal Details
Competencies
Bullet-Level Feedback
Network Feedback
How to Ask for Network Feedback
Sample Request for Feedback
Requesting CCD Feedback
What To Do If Your Resume is Too Long
Lists of Action Verbs
for Specific Impact
for Competencies
Resumes Samples
IMPACT
The Impact scoring module is a style guide for your bullet points. Here’s what it looks for you to do:
• Start with a focus on what you did (Action-Oriented)
• Indicate the tools, techniques, and skills used; specify the amount and frequency of what you did and produced
(Specifics)
• Avoid repetitive language (Overusage)
• Leave out unnecessary words while still maximizing meaning and detail (Avoided Words)
Action-Oriented
Begin bullet points with action verbs.
• Starting with phrases like “Responsible for…” or “Market research…” or “Poster presentation…” will get flagged as a
problem.
Use action verbs that are specific rather than generic.
• Starting with verbs like “worked” or “helped” will get flagged by VMock as weak verbs. For better action verbs, identify
what the work or help consisted of.
• Use the VMock guides in the Impact module for examples of specific, action-oriented bullets.
• Also check out our verb list below, organized by type of action, for more precise language.
Weak vs. Strong verbs
• When verbs get flagged on your resume as weak, VMock’s examples of strong verbs aren’t always the best fit.
• Our verb list below is organized by type of action, so that should be more helpful.
Specifics
• VMock loves numbers, so try to quantify everything you can. If you can’t be precise, ranges and estimates are fine.
Keep in mind, quantifying something is not only about amount (how much) but also frequency (how often).
• Include information about tools, techniques, and skills used to get something done.
• When listing technical or language skills, include information about your level of ability.
• See our verb list below for action verbs that signal specific accomplishments and improvements.
Avoided Words
• Good resumes have a concise, punchy style. So VMock flags articles (a, the) as words that are generally safe to delete.
Try doing that and check whether the meaning is still clear.
• Avoid pronouns (I, we, me, our). Leaving these out is generally accepted practice.
• VMock flags certain adverbs (successfully, eectively, independently, etc.) as filler words that pad your bullet points
without adding substance. For example, “Successfully completed all assignments” is just a pued up version of
“Completed all assignments.”
PRESENTATION
The Presentation module in VMock evaluates your resume’s layout and formatting of information. From our testing, this is
where students can usually improve the most and do so pretty easily. Check out these tips to help you solve some things that
VMock flags as problems.
Avoid stock resume templates that come with MS Word or other applications.
These templates use unconventional design elements—colors, images, layouts, and text formatting—and will trigger multiple
error flags. A simple, straight-forward layout, one you build from scratch, is the way to go. And you’ll do more than just raise
your VMock score:
• People who read a lot of resumes prefer a simple layout because it’s easier for them to navigate and find the
information that matters most to them.
• Templates tend to lock you into a structure—section headings and the way their ordered—that doesn’t put your
background in the best light.
• Using a template risks sending the wrong message to your reader—that you can’t be bothered, or manage your time, or
learn how to use MS Word well enough to create it yourself.
• Writing your own resume isn’t just about a single document, it’s about learning how to frame and present your
experience in a persuasive way. This is a general skill you’ll apply in dierent ways, over and over throughout your
career.
For creative resumes such as graphic design: focus on content feedback, not presentation feedback.
• The unconventional design elements of a creative resume will result in a low Presentation score, so feel free to skip
over that part.
• Feedback for Impact and Competencies, along with Bullet-Level Feedback, will still be valid and useful, so focus on that
to improve how you describe your experience.
• Along with our partners from CFA, we also recommend having two versions of your resume, one with a conventional
design and layout (such as the example provided).
Number of Pages
A one-page resume is appropriate for most targets (but not all).
• One page is the norm for most industries and job functions, so VMock is set for that length for most types of resumes.
• Note the following exceptions: resumes targeted for Health, Research, Education, and Social Services are allowed to be
two pages. If you are aiming for one of these fields, and your resume was flagged as too long, you can request a new
benchmark rubric by emailing us at bucar[email protected].
Make sure there are no blank pages at the end of your original document.
• By accident, many resumes are created with an extra page of blank space at the end. This will make a one-page resume
look to VMock like two pages (and a two-pager look like three). As a result, the resume can get flagged as too long.
Essential Sections
Use section headings from the list shown in “Essential Sections”
• VMock shows allowed section headings in a bullet-point list.
• Headings are grouped together by generic type (like Co-curriculars and Other) but these types are not themselves
allowed headings.
• The list of section headings reflects those we recommend—and leaves o those we don’t (e.g., Objective).
• The menu of section headings gives you a range of options to choose from, but VMock is strict about using exactly
what is listed. For example, “Leadership & Activities” is allowed while “Leadership and Activities” is not.
• It’s possible that you have a section heading that gets flagged but in your considered judgment is what works best for
you. In that case, keep what you have and move on to other suggested changes.
• It’s also possible that the section headings listed for you aren’t a good fit for your target. For example, you’re a
science or engineering student applying for jobs in business and finance. Or you’ve recently changed your major, so
the headings that made sense for you before no longer do. In that case, you can request a new benchmark rubric by
emailing us at bucareer@bu.edu.
Overall Format: Date Formatting
Use date formats listed in VMock
VMock is set for the date formats recommended by BU career centers. The requirements are strict because inconsistencies
and not-so-best practices in date formats are the most common we see. Here are the allowed formats, sorted by type of
information.
Boston University
• Expected Jan 2020
• Jan 2020
• Expected January 2020
• January 2020
• Expected 01/20
• 01/20
Study Abroad
• Fall 2018
• Sep – Dec 2018
• September – December 2018
• 09/18 – 12/18
Transfer School (no degree earned)
• 2016 – 2018
• Sep 2016 – Jun 2018
• September 2016 – June 2018
• 09/16 – 06/18
High School or Associate of Arts
• Jun 2016
• June 2016
• 06/16
Experience Sections: Summer
• Jun – Aug 2018
• June – August 2018
• 06/18 – 08/18
• Summer 2018
• Summer 2017, 2018
Experience Sections: Academic Year
• Sep 2017 – Jun 2018
• September 2017 – June 2018
• 09/17 – 06/18
• 2017 – 2018
Experience Sections: Month, Year
• Mar 2018
• March 2018
• 03/18
• 2018
Some common issues with date formats:
• The date used for Boston University should be your expected graduation date, with no start date. This diers from
other experiences, where you list a date range from start to finish.
• For date ranges, use space-dash-space formatting. For example, “June – August 2017” is allowed, while “June–August
2017” and “June– August 2017 is not.
• The same style of dash (shorter hyphen or slightly longer en-dash) must be used consistently throughout.
• Abbreviating months in your dates is a good way to use less text on secondary information. For a clean and consistent
look, VMock is set for only one way to abbreviate: first three letters of the month with no period. For example, “Sep –
Dec 2017” is allowed, but “Sept. – Dec. 2017” is not.
• Align dates on the right margin. This is recommended so that dates don’t crowd the information about organizations
and positions, which are more important.
Overall Format: Section Spacing
Add a line of blank space before every section.
• Without that blank space, the document gets crowded, making it hard to read.
• If adding space pushes you over a page limit, and you don’t see an easy way to reformat (e.g., make margins smaller)
or reduce content, then keep things as is and move on to other feedback.
• If your resume goes over the desired page limit, see the recommendations below on using space eciently and
reducing content as a last resort.
Make sure line spacing between experiences within a section is consistent.
• For readability, we recommend having some blank space between experiences within the same section. It doesn’t have
to be a full line of space, a half-line or so will do.
• But if even a small amount pushes your resume over the page limit, then it’s okay to use single-space for all info within
a section. (No points are deducted for single-space between items.)
• Whichever way you do it, just make sure you are consistent throughout. (Inconsistent spacing will cause a big point
reduction.)
Overall Format: Bullet Check
Use standard black-dot bullets for describing your experience, and use them consistently
The Bullet-Level Feedback feature of VMock evaluates each bullet point individually. In order for it to work, your various
experiences need to be described using bullet points. This is a good idea anyway, because bullets are preferred by people who
read a lot of resumes.
• Bullets should not be used when listing an organization or position, only for describing your experience within the role
and organization.
• Avoid non-standard bullet styles (arrows, dashes, other symbols). Only the standard, black-dot style is allowed.
• Make sure all bullets are indented the same amount in all sections so they line up vertically.
Section Specific: Personal Details
• Scoring for this element is a little quirky, and can seem harsh. The system checks and scores for several things at once,
so if one small thing is o, it triggers a big point deduction.
• So, yes, a 15-point deduction for using parentheses for the area code in your phone number is tough grading, but it’s a
quick and easy fix.
Section Specific: Education
• Don’t describe your field of study as a major (e.g., “Major in Economics” or “Economics major”). This will be flagged as
an error.
• Do describe it as a degree program (e.g., “B.A. in Economics”). Then format your dates to signal that your graduation is
in the future (e.g., “Expected 2020”).
Spell Check
• VMock flags acronyms, jargon, and organization names (e.g., “InfoSys”) as spelling errors (or possible errors).
• If you know the word is okay, hover over it and click “Add to Dictionary” and it won’t be flagged as an error the next
time you upload your resume.
COMPETENCIES
The Competencies scoring module looks for evidence of five skills that employers commonly look for when making hiring
decisions.
• VMock scans all content—not only the experience described in your bullet points, but also position titles, degree
program, any courses, languages, software programs, and so on.
• Guides are provided in the Competencies module for all five skills. Use those guides to see how each skill is defined,
dierent ways it is demonstrated, and several example bullets.
• See our verb list below for a detailed list of action verbs organized by competency type.
BULLET-LEVEL FEEDBACK
Bullet-Level Feedback evaluates each bullet point, one by one.
• It uses the same criteria as the Impact module, checking for action-oriented language, lots of specifics, overused
words, and unnecessary filler words.
• Therefore, when you improve your bullets based on the feedback and guides for Impact, this will improve your bullet-
level feedback at the same time.
NETWORK FEEDBACK
How to Ask for Network Feedback
Once you have reached a score of at least 65/100 in VMock, you will have the option to request Network Feedback. Network
Feedback allows you to solicit input on your resume from real people. To do this, we recommend several important steps to get
the most out of your request.
Be thoughtful about who you ask
Ask for advice from people you trust and have talked to about your career path. If you wouldn’t ask someone for help in person,
then you shouldn’t ask them through VMock. Professors you know well, friends, family, mentors, and prior supervisors or co-
workers can all be great choices if you would normally ask them in person for career advice.
Talk to the person before asking through VMock
Before you send your request through VMock, ask the person if they are willing to review your resume. If they say yes, let them
know that they will receive an email request with editing instructions. They will be able to review your resume through VMock
without having to sign in or sign up for an account.
Craft a customized message in VMock
When you select the Network Feedback option, enter the name and email address of the person you’re requesting feedback
from. You will then be given a space to craft a message. Explain what your goals are for using the resume, and what you are
looking for them to focus on. This helps them give you more precise advice.
Give them a reasonable deadline for when you would like to receive advice
If you have a deadline that you are trying to meet, let your reviewer know. It is important that you give them a reasonable
amount of time to provide thoughtful advice and also enough time for you to make changes before a deadline.
Thank your reviewer
This is self-explanatory but once you get feedback, it is important to acknowledge their eort. You can do this outside of
VMock either via email or in person.
Sample Request for Advice
Dear Professor Scarlett,
Thank you so much for agreeing to review my resume through VMock. As I mentioned in your oce hours, I
am using my resume to apply to a study abroad program where I will be taking two classes in sociology and
interning 10 hours per week at a local nonprofit. I am hoping to highlight my previous nonprofit work, my
communication skills, and ability to take initiative. My application is due in three weeks so if you could please
provide me with some advice through VMock in two weeks by (DATE), so that I have enough time to make
changes, I would appreciate it.
Thanks,
Rhett Terrier
Requesting CCD Feedback
Please see our website for instructions and eligibility: bu.edu/careers/reviews
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR RESUME IS TOO LONG
Step One: Use Space Eciently
Margins
• Margins can be smaller for resumes than for other documents.
• Narrowest option: 0.5” all around.
• If space is available, use smaller margins on top & bottom, larger on left & right.
Contact information
• Your contact info can be combined on one line, two at most.
• Add a separator (not a comma) between items for readability. Examples:
email • phone • city • linkedin
email | phone | city | linkedin
Line spacing: don’t over space
• Spacing between items in same section: only 1.5 line spacing, not double space.
• For all lines within the same item—organization, position, bullets—use single-space.
Font size: don’t go bigger than needed
• The default font size of 12 points is larger than needed. 11-point size works for all font styles.
Step Two: Reduce Content
Sections: options to reduce
• Combine separate sections into one (e.g., Activities & Community Service)
• Change one section into a sub-section of another (e.g., put Honors & Awards within Education)
Length of bullets: options to reduce
• For bullets barely over one line: re-phrase to fit on one line
• For two short bullets: combine to make one, single-line bullet
Last resort: options to remove content
• Eliminate less relevant bullets for experiences with more than four bullets.
• Eliminate some items altogether. Here are some guidelines for removing content:
1. Older items that are redundant to more recent ones
2. High school information and experiences
3. Less relevant to position applying for
4. Less impressive positions or achievements
5. Positions with less responsibility
6. Oldest experiences 
ACTION VERBS
FOR SPECIFIC IMPACT
Accomplishment
accomplished achieved attained awarded competed completed earned
eected ensured exceeded executed generated mastered obtained
pioneered produced recognized resulted resolved sold solicited
succeeded won
Improvement
accelerated automated eliminated expanded expedited improved increased
reduced reorganized restored restructured simplified streamlined transformed
upgraded consolidated strengthened corrected enhanced
FOR COMPETENCIES
ANALYTICAL
Research
collected conducted defined detected discovered examined experimented
explored extracted found gathered identified inquired inspected
investigated located measured modeled observed researched reviewed
searched studied surveyed tested tracked
Analyze & Evaluate
analyzed assessed calculated cataloged categorized clarified classified
compared compiled critiqued derived determined diagnosed estimated
evaluated formulated interpreted prescribed organized rated recommended
reported summarized systematized tabulated
Technical
assembled built coded computed constructed converted debugged
designed diagnosed engineered fabricated installed maintained operated
printed programmed proved rectified regulated repaired resolved
restored specified standardized systematized tested upgraded
Financial
adjusted allocated appraised audited balanced budgeted calculated
compiled conserved controlled disbursed estimated figured financed
forecasted netted projected reconciled
COMMUNICATION
Verbal & Written
addressed articulated authored briefed clarified conveyed composed
condensed corresponded debated delivered described discussed drafted
edited expressed formulated informed instructed interacted interpreted
lectured negotiated notified outlined reconciled reinforced reported
presented proposed specified spoke translated wrote
Promote & Influence
advertised influenced marketed solicited contacted convinced represented
persuaded motivated communicated elicited recruited promoted publicized
enlisted
Interpersonal
arbitrated consulted conferred interviewed mediated moderated listened
responded suggested
LEADERSHIP
Lead & Manage
administered appointed approved assigned authorized chaired conducted
contracted controlled coordinated decided delegated directed developed
enforced ensured evaluated executed headed hired hosted
implemented instituted led managed overhauled oversaw prioritized
recruited represented strategized supervised trained
Plan & Organize (Events & People)
anticipated arranged contacted convened coordinated logged obtained
ordered planned prepared processed purchased recorded registered
reserved scheduled verified
Plan & Organize (Data & Things)
consolidated distributed eliminated filed grouped implemented incorporated
logged merged monitored obtained ordered organized planned
regulated reviewed routed standardized structured submitted systematized
updated verified
TEAMWORK
Admin Support & Customer Service
aided answered arranged catalogued categorized collated collected
coordinated distributed emailed ensured expedited explained filed
greeted handled informed implemented maintained oered ordered
organized performed prepared processed provided purchased recorded
received resolved scheduled served supported tabulated
Collaborate & Build Relationships
collaborated consulted cooperated coordinated liaised reached out
verb + object + with + # group members (“Organized fundraising event with 4 co-members…”)
verb + object + in a team of + # group members (“Created media campaign in a team of 5 interns”)
INITIATIVE
Create & Modify
authored began built changed combined conceived
constructed created customized designed developed devised
established formed formulated founded generated initiated
integrated introduced invented launched originated produced
shaped staged visualized modified revamped revised
revised updated
Help & Guide
advocated aided assisted cared for contributed cooperated
coordinated ensured furthered guided intervened oered
referred rehabilitated supplied supported volunteered served
Teach & Mentor
adapted advised clarified coached counseled demonstrated
educated enabled encouraged evaluated explained facilitated
familiarized individualized instructed mentored modeled motivated
simplified stimulated taught trained tutored
RHETT WARREN
rwarren@bu.edu • 617-321-4567 • Boston, MA • linkedin.com/in/rwarren
EDUCATION
Boston University | Boston, MA Expected May 2021
B.A. in Psychology, minor in Communication
• GPA 3.27
Related coursework:
• Principles and Practices of Public Relations Social Psychology Communication Writing
Pawnee High School | Pawnee, IN Jun 2017
• GPA 3.82
• High honors (all terms)
LEADERSHIP & ACTIVITIES
Boston University Public Relations Student Society of America | Boston, MA Sep 2018 – present
Member
• Attend weekly PRSSA meetings; researched local PR professionals to invite as speakers for chapter
events.
Boston University Men’s Soccer Team | Boston, MA Sep 2017 – present
Assistant Manager
• Coordinate with coaches and team manager to ensure equipment is ready for all practices and games,
five days per week.
• Create travel itineraries for all ten away games to work with students’ class and training schedules.
DECA – Pawnee High School Chapter | Pawnee, IN Sep 2016 – Jun 2017
President
• Ran weekly meetings to inform 50-member club about upcoming events and ongoing projects designed
to develop future leaders and entrepreneurs.
• Led Pawnee High School DECA team to Indiana state DECA championships for three consecutive years as
team captain.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Boston University Dining Services | Boston, MA Sep 2017 – present
Dishwasher
• Clean dishes from 2,000 students per shift, maintain safe and sanitary working environment; praised for
efficiency and fast pace by supervisor.
Mega Waffle | Pawnee, IN Jun – Aug 2017
Waiter
• Served 100-200 customers per shift with excellent customer service at most popular restaurant in town;
earned up to $150 in tips daily.
• Waited on 8-10 busy tables per shift to keep patrons satisfied and station running smoothly.
SKILLS
Computer: Adobe InDesign, MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), professional social media
Language: French (intermediate)
RHETT HUNTINGTON
rhunt@bu.edu • 617-555-1234 • Boston, MA • www.linkedin.com/in/rhett-hunt
EDUCATION
Boston University | Boston, MA Expected May 2019
B.A. in International Relations (regional track: Europe; functional track: Foreign Policy)
• GPA: 3.52
University of Geneva | Geneva, Switzerland Spring 2018
Research Project:
• Wrote 15-page report on history of Switzerland’s relationship to the European Union and growing popularity of
restrictionist immigration policies among Swiss electorate in response to recent demographic changes.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
United Nations Association of Greater Boston | Boston, MA May – Aug 2018
Programs Intern
• Researched, wrote and revised grant applications; resulted in $20,000 of grant funding.
• Created and distributed materials for education program serving over 4,000 students annually.
World Health Organization (WHO) | Geneva, Switzerland Jan – May 2018
Health Policy Intern; Maternal, Newborn Child, and Adolescent Health Dept.
• Managed new Quality of Care Network program to ensure every pregnant woman, newborn, and child receive
quality health care services in 9 participating countries.
• Communicated with 50+ country representatives, health care officials, providers and organizational partners to
develop cohesive intervention plan and enhance local resources.
Accion International | Cambridge, MA Jan – Aug 2017
Resource Development Intern
• Analyzed direct mail response rates using Raiser’s Edge; reported results for management review.
• Evaluated CRM platforms for functionality, flexibility, costs; findings resulted in switching to software more
suitable for department needs.
LEADERSHIP & ACTIVITIES
Boston Invitational Model United Nations Conference XVII | Boston, MA Jan 2017 – present
Secretary General (Feb 2018 – present)
• Manage international conference with 1,500 attendees, 200 staff and 9 executive board members.
• Negotiate contracts with Boston University and Boston Marriott; manage $100,000 budget.
Under-Secretary General of Crisis (Jan 2017 – Feb 2018)
• Led 6 Crisis Committees and supervise hiring and work for each committee’s 15 staffers; coordinate activity
of all 25 delegates within each committee (total of 90 staffers and 150 delegates).
• Direct and ensure accurate communication between 9 members of Secretariat and Crisis Senior Staff.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Barnes & Noble at Boston University | Boston, MA Sep 2016 – present
Bookseller
• Provide excellent customer service to all shoppers in high-volume bookstore.
SKILLS
Computer: Adobe Photoshop (advanced); WordPress content management (proficient); Raiser’s Edge;
social media account management (all major platforms); Microsoft Office
Languages: French (professional proficiency)
RHETT ROCKEFELLER
rhetrock@bu.com | 617-555-1234 | Boston, MA | www.linkedin.com/in/rhetrock
EDUCATION
Boston University | Boston MA Expected May 2019
B.A. in Economics
• GPA: 3.37
B.U. Study Abroad, London Program | London, UK Spring 2018
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Truewest Credit Union | Fremont, CA Jun – Aug 2018
Business Banking Intern
• Conducted risk management analysis, cash flow analysis, and assisted with financial underwriting
for credit memorandums and annual loan reviews.
• Categorized credit managers’ expense reports by cost center and entered them into company’s
SAP database systems to ensure timely payments.
Scanlon Consulting Co. | London, UK Jan – Apr 2018
Analyst Intern
• Researched information for competitive analysis of firms in energy and financial service sectors.
• Created white space mapping for 9 firms with focus on distribution of functions across Europe.
• Results presented to London management and shared with all European Client Service Directors
to streamline goals and operations.
The Green Light Group | Cambridge, MA Jun – Aug 2017
Marketing Intern
• Improved and updated company website: transferred information, wrote summaries, updated
metadata; website traffic increased by 32%.
• Managed social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
B.U. Economics Association | Boston, MA Sep 2017 – present
VP of Operations
• Create and analyze internal performance metrics; recommendations to improve events resulted
in 5% increase in membership and 10% increase in attendance.
• Plan and invite guest speakers to educate members on trends and careers in finance, consulting,
marketing, operations, and data analytics.
• Prepared 2018 Case Competition topic; drafted basic research information and materials for
participating members.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
City of Fremont | Fremont, CA Summers 2014 – 2016
Assistant Site Director of Recreation Programs
• Coordinated 10 camp activities; delegated to staff of 20 counselors.
• Supervised camp activities for students, encouraged participation, and resolved conflicts.
SKILLS
• Proficient in MS Excel (charts, pivot tables, lookup functions)
• Social media management (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+)
• Languages: Mandarin Chinese (intermediate), Spanish (basic)
RHETT BARTON
rbarton@bu.edu | 617-555-1234 | Boston, MA | www.linkedin.com/in/rhettbarton
EDUCATION
Boston University | Boston, MA
B.A. in Psychology, minor in Sociology Expected May 2019
• GPA: 3.48
Related Coursework:
• The Nonprofit Sector in Society Social Problems & Social Change Sociology of Race & Class
• Gender and Prejudice Psychology of Race Psychology of Personality
Boston University Study Abroad, Brussels Program | Brussels, Belgium Spring 2018
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Massachusetts Bay | Boston, MA Jun – Aug 2017
Program Services Intern
• Created, facilitated, and supported dozens of mentor relationships between “Bigs” and “Littles”.
• Conducted behavioral assessments using critical thinking and approved interview techniques.
Serve the City | Brussels, Belgium Jan – May 2017
Nonprofit Project Management Intern
• Coordinated over 300 volunteers at multiple serving sites during annual Big Volunteer Week.
• Increased social media traffic by 40% by creating weekly social media posts to advertise various volunteer
opportunities and events.
• Scheduled and actively participated in bi-weekly project team meetings.
Brookline Community Foundation | Brookline, MA Sep – Dec 2016
Philanthropy Intern
• Provided administrative support to Development & Communications Manager and Director of Donor
Services.
• Created promotional literature and weekly social media posts for events and donor opportunities.
• Assisted in development of two new community events and a fundraising campaign; raised over $25,000.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Boston University Siblings | Boston, MA Sep 2017 – present
• Meet bi-monthly with a “little sibling” to provide support for her education and to develop trust and
mentoring relationship.
FriendshipWorks | Boston, MA Oct 2016 – May 2017
• Met with senior citizen once per week to build friendship through conversation during neighborhood
walks.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Boston University Admissions | Boston, MA Sep 2015 – present
Administrative Assistant
• Provide friendly, professional customer service to staff and students by phone and in-person.
• Ensure timely and accurate information for students and students’ families.
SKILLS
Computer: Adobe Photoshop; WordPress web administration; Microsoft Office; social media management
Languages: Spanish (conversational); French (basic)
RHETT RECAMIER
recamier@bu.edu | 617-555-1234 | Boston, MA | www.linkedin.com/in/recamier
EDUCATION
Boston University, Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences | Boston, MA Expected May 2019
B.S. in Health Science
• GPA: 3.50
• Dean’s List (3 semesters)
Coursework:
• Microbiology: Human Infections Disease Systems Physiology Organic Chemistry
• Global Environmental Public Health Health Care Delivery Qualitative Research Methods
RESEARCH & CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
Boston University Bioscience Lab | Boston, MA Jan 2018 – present
Research Assistant
• Investigate binding sites of enzyme uridine monophosphate synthetase; techniques used: actin pulldown,
coupled activity, and competition kinetics assays, SDS-PAGE, fluorescence anisotropy, and protein purification.
• Process and analyze data using Excel and LB control software; will present results at symposium for
Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP).
NY Blood Center Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Prevention | New York, NY May – Aug 2016
Clinical Research Recruiter
• Contacted 300 people by phone to evaluate eligibility for Project Achieve research studies on HIV vaccines and
AMP study on HIV prevention.
• Interviewed potential participants for medical history, drug use, and sexual history and behavior to determine
eligibility; used iDataFax to track information.
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Helping Hands for the Homeless | Boston University Sep 2017 – present
Secretary
• Research, organize, and track volunteer sites in Greater Boston area using Excel and Google Docs for monthly
community service projects.
• Meet with e-board of 4 students to select volunteer sites and set agendas for bi-weekly meetings.
Alpha Gamma Kappa Sorority | Boston University Sep 2016 – present
Recruitment Chair, Fundraising Chair
• Plan monthly social events with other organizations to strengthen relations and recruit new members.
• Oversee planning for fundraising events for philanthropies (Avon Breast Cancer Crusade, Court Ordered Special
Advocates for Children); raised over $5,000 to date.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Boston University School of Public Health | Boston, MA Oct 2015 – present
Grants and Finance Assistant
• Prepare and review grant budgets and application materials for federal and private grant proposals and renewals;
complete post-award financial reviews to close out completed grants.
CERTIFICATIONS
• Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in MA
• First Aid & CPR
RHETT MCLUHAN
rmcluhan@bu.edu | 617-555-1234 | Boston, MA | www.linkedin.com/rmcluhan
EDUCATION
Boston University, College of Communication | Boston, MA
Bachelor of Science in Communication Expected May 2020
• Concentration: Public Relations
• GPA: 3.53
Relevant Coursework:
• Principles & Practices of Public Relations Public Relations in Nonprofit Settings
• New & Traditional Media Strategies Design & New Media
PUBLIC RELATIONS EXPERIENCE
Boston University PRLab | Boston, MA Jan 2018 – present
Account Executive for Goodwill of Boston
• Develop social media campaign to promote Goodwill’s 2018 Boston Marathon Team and raise funds for
Goodwill’s Youth Initiative.
• Write content for newsletter; create 15 social media posts per week.
• Redesigned bi-monthly newsletter using Adobe InDesign to increase subscription rate by 27%.
Boston University Public Relations Student Society of America | Boston, MA Sep 2016 – present
Active Member (Sep 2016 – present)
• Recruit new members through social media and various student organization events.
• Promote events and conferences to PRSSA members and other BU students in classes and on social
media; attend and participate in weekly PRSSA meetings.
Conference Coordinator (Sep 2017 – Mar 2018)
• Coordinated northeast regional PRSSA conference attended by 100+ students; recruited 12 guest
speakers and coordinated all travel logistics.
• Planned conference theme, guest speakers, and activities with 5 committee members.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Boston University Language Link | Boston, MA Sep 2017 – present
American Sign Language (ASL) Tutor
• Tutor beginner-level ASL students to strengthen vocabulary and grammar skills.
• Lead groups of ~10 students in discussions using ASL; create activities to foster skills.
Yard House | Boston, MA Oct 2016 – present
Server
• Provide excellent customer service to guests in high-volume restaurant; communicate quickly and
efficiently with staff to ensure attentive service and accurate orders.
• Increased up-sell item sales by 30% in 2017 fiscal year.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Haley House | Boston, MA Sep 2016 – May 2017
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Massachusetts Bay | Boston, MA Sep 2015 – Jan 2017
SKILLS
Technical: Adobe InDesign & Photoshop, Hootsuite, WordPress, iMovie, Microsoft Office
Languages: American Sign Language (fluent)
RHETT NEWTON
rnewton@bu.edu | 617-123-4567 | Boston, MA
EDUCATION
Boston University Boston, MA
B.A. in Neuroscience Expected May 2019
• GPA: 3.25
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
B.U. Medical School, Draceri Cardiovascular Center Boston, MA
Research Assistant, Cardiovascular Disease Project Jan 2018 – present
• Collect and input data for biobank of aortic and associated conditions; will enable physicians and researchers to
better understand patient conditions and progression.
• Recruit and enroll 200+ patients to participate in study; enter relevant patient data in RedCap.
Boston Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine Boston, MA
Research Assistant Jan – Dec 2017
• Studied hypertensive, target-organ cardiac damage and its effects on disparities in cardiovascular disease,
particularly within Black community, while investigating efficacy of vitamin D therapy.
• Interacted with 200+ patients, recruited them to be study participants, and screened them using FirstNet as part
of recruitment process.
• Drew patients’ blood samples and took blood pressures to collect vital stats.
• Collected patients’ personal health information for data entry and analysis to draw connection between family
history and cardiovascular disease.
B.U. Psychology Department, Cruyff Neuropsychology Lab Boston, MA
Research Assistant Feb – Aug 2016
• Focused on affective neuroscience: studied neural basis of positive desire and sensory pleasure, and negative
disgust and fear involved in emotion and addiction.
• Triggered learning behaviors and addictive tendencies in subject rats; video recorded reactions to observe their
pleasures and desires.
• Learned about animal protocols and research methods, enhanced knowledge and interest in neuroscience and
psychology.
VOLUNTEER
Health Leads Boston, MA
Patient Advocate Sep 2018 – present
• Explain in simple terms how to navigate health care system for 12 patients unfamiliar with its complexity.
Hometown Heroes Hometown, NY
Peer Coordinator Sep 2015 – Aug 2016
• Organized group of 30 student volunteers; tracked results using CRM software and Excel to report out data.
LEADERSHIP & ACTIVITIES
President | National Senior Honor Society, B.U. Chapter Sep 2017 – present
Active Member | Boston University Hillel Sep 2015 – present
Student Board Member | Dean of Students Advisory Board 2016 – 2017
LAB TECHNIQUES
• Chronic video-EEG recording and analysis Neurophotonics Fluorescence in vivo imaging
• Confocal immunofluorescence microscopy Histology Controlled cortical impact
• Fiber optic NIR spectroscopy In situ hybridization Immunohistochemistry
RHETT VIGNELLI
vignelli@bu.edu | 617-555-1234 | Boston, MA | www.linkedin.com/in/rhett.vignelli
EDUCATION
Boston University, College of Fine Arts | Boston, MA Expected May 2019
BFA in Graphic Design, minor in Arts Leadership
• GPA: 3.46
B.U. Study Abroad, Paris Program | Paris, France Spring 2018
ARTS ADMINISTRATION EXPERIENCE
MASSCreative | Boston, MA May – Aug 2018
Campaign Organizing Intern
• Collaborated closely with senior leadership to advocate for increased public investment in creative sector.
• Organized 15 outreach and membership events across the state; researched state and local congressional
campaign activity; maintained member databases and communication using NationBuilder.
• Attended annual Americans for the Arts Convention held in Boston to network with industry professionals and
raise profile of MASSCreative.
Galerie Michel | Paris, France Jan – May 2018
Gallery Assistant Intern
• Communicated with collectors about current and upcoming shows at the gallery and international art fairs.
• Promoted current exhibitions: photographed, edited, and uploaded photos of artwork to gallery’s website;
created and updated social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) in both French and English.
LEADERSHIP & ACTIVITIES
B.U. College of Fine Arts | Boston, MA Jan 2018 – present
Admissions Ambassador and Peer Mentor
• Selected by peers to represent CFA to families and prospective students.
• Mentor and support 12 incoming freshmen in First Year Experience class.
• Planned, coordinated, and created marketing materials for three freshman events.
B.U. Outing Club| Boston University Jan 2016 – Dec 2017
Social Media Coordinator
• Elevated club’s social media presence using best practices for social media design and interaction.
• Designed monthly print newsletters, weekly e-newsletters, and four event invitations.
Gallery 5 | Boston University Nov 2017
Organizing and Contributing Artist
• Conceived, developed, and contributed to student-run group show, Curious Reality.
• Co-wrote and proofread all show labels; installed work in gallery.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Museum of Fine Arts, William Morris Hunt Memorial Library | Boston, MA Sep 2016 – present
Library Assistant
• Guide patrons in using research databases; assist with procuring materials.
• Organize monthly talks and exhibitions for Artist’s Book series.
SKILLS
Technical: Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress, Google G Suite, NationBuilder, Microsoft Office
Languages: French (professional proficiency)
RHETT DEWEY
rdewey@bu.edu • 617-123-4567 • Boston, MA • www.linkedin.com/in/rdewey
EDUCATION & LICENSURE
Boston University | Boston, MA May 2019
B.S. in Elementary Education
• GPA 3.70; Dean’s List (7 semesters)
Boston University Study Abroad | Madrid, Spain Summer 2018
Massachusetts Licensure: Early Childhood, PreK–2 (pending Aug 2018)
STUDENT TEACHING & FIELD EXPERIENCE
Morris School | Cambridge, MA Sep 2018 – May 2019
Student Teacher, Second Grade Inclusion Class, 25 students (Jan – May 2018)
• Designed and implemented science and technology units under supervision of classroom teacher.
• Designed an inquiry-based social studies lesson using primary source documents.
• Created learning centers to support differentiated instruction in math and science concepts.
• Met with special educator and instructional assistant to develop appropriate supports for students with IEP’s.
• Assessed students’ reading comprehension, fluency and words per minute through Read Naturally.
• Redesigned bulletin boards to support Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary learning.
Field Experience, Second Grade Inclusion Class, 23 students (Sep – Dec 2017)
• Led students in creating class graph with Halloween theme based on measuring candy levels.
• Guided students through writing activity, “I Wish I Could Fly Because…”; compiled essays to create class book.
• Developed, administered and scored Individualized Reading Inventory.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Boy Scouts of America | Brooklyn, NY Summers 2016, 2017
Camp Counselor
• Created and led physical, social and educational activities for 25 campers aged 10-12.
• Communicated regularly with camp leadership and parents regarding childrens’ adjustment to camp life.
• Voted “Counselor of the Summer” by peers.
St. Peters Elementary School | Brooklyn, NY Oct 2014 – Jun 2015
Tutor
• Provided 1:1 instruction on math and science topics for 5th grade student; student improved from C+ to A- by end
of school year.
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Future Educators of America Club | Boston University Sep 2016 – present
Treasurer
• Manage all revenues and expenses; used Excel to create operations budget for $15,000 of chapter income.
Alternative Spring Break, Habitat for Humanity | Memphis, TN Jan 2017
Trip Leader
• Co-led group of 12 Boston University students to paint house interiors.
• Arranged transportation and housing of volunteers with local families.
SKILLS
Computer: Google Suite for Education, Trello project management, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Language: Spanish (proficient)