Van
Noy
Resume
Checklist
Writer
_______________.
Reviewer_____________.
When
reading each other’s resumes, please carefully examine for certain features.
Use the space under the item to write additional comments. Turn in two with
your completed resume set.
q Is the name visible and
appropriately placed?
q Are addresses (including
e-mail) accessible yet unobtrusive?
q Is there enough white
space? Are sections balanced?
q Are headings clearly defined
and consistent?
q Are the typefaces legible,
readable, aesthetically pleasing?
q Do the sections follow a
smooth, fluent pattern? Are they clearly
separated?
q If there is a job objective,
is it concisely stated? “You” oriented?
q Has the writer properly
highlighted educational background, relevant courses, significant professional
training?
q Are the job descriptions
adequate, active, parallel?
q Are the dates of employment
clearly marked?
q Has the writer noted
requisite skills?
q Has the writer overused
certain words or phrases?
q Are minor sections like
“Personal” or Extracurricular Activities” given enough detail, specificity?
q Should the writer include
memberships more?
q Is there an indication that
references or a dossier are available? Should there be?
q Can anything else be included
to explain the writer’s capabilities and experience? Summary qualifications?
q Give two suggestions for the
writer to work on in revision:
Van
Noy
Application
Letter/Personal Statement Checklist
Writer
_______________.
Reviewer_____________.
When
reading each other’s letters/personal statements, please carefully examine for
certain features. Use the space under the item to write additional comments.
Application Letter
q Is the format correct, block
or modified block (signature block aligned with return address)?
q Are the parts all there:
return address, date, inside address, salutation, body, signature block?
q Did the writer address the
letter to a specific person or “occupant.”?
q Does the opening follow “you”
centered principles or is it more “I wish to apply for X as seen in Y”? Does it mention the position being applied
for?
q Does the opening grab our
attention in any way, provide a good preview of what’s to come?
q Does the letter fill out
qualifications and experiences listed on the resume? Show them by including
examples?
q Does the close reinforce the
writer’s enthusiasm for the position and give relevant contact information (if
necessary)?
q Is the writing clear?
Proofread?
Personal Statement
q Does the personal statement
seem to be well organized?
q Does the opening grab the
reader’s attention in any way? Provide a framework for what is to follow?
q Does the writer get specific
and “show” qualifications. Not “I would be a good X,” but they back up how they
know.
q Is there a story or
narrative of some kind? Can we tell when the writer realized they wanted to
pursue the goal they striving for?
q Is the writing clear?
Proofread?
q Are attributes of the
specific program they are applying for mentioned? Have they attempted to stress
the “fit”?