Myth : A CV and a resume are interchangeable.
Fact: A CV means that you must have a lot of experience and accomplishments already and for that reason, the document is expected to be longer than one page.
A CV is typically used for positions in academia, but may be requested by a business organization as well.
Common Sections that are Included on a CV:
- Personal Information
- Education
- Teaching Experience
- Research Experience
- Publications
- Conference Presentations
- Certifications
- Memberships in Professional Organizations
- Licensure (if applicable)
- Awards and Honors
- Funding Received (ex. research grants/funding)
- Additional Training
- Post-Doctoral Fellows
A curriculum vitae is a comprehensive document that details all of your past education and professional competencies and experiences. Although it is similar to a résumé, there are several key differences:
Résumé
Summary of key experiences that is targeted to a specific field
To demonstrate the skills and experience necessary to fill a specific role
1 or 2 pages, depending on experience
When applying for a position in industry, non-profit, or public sectors
Should be tailored for each job to which you apply
VS
WHAT IT IS
GOAL
LENGTH
WHEN TO USE IT
TAILORING
CV
Complete account of professional and educational history
To demonstrate academic achievements and scholarly potential
As long as needed, but usually at least 3 pages, depending on experience
When applying for positions in academia and research
Tailoring is not needed, but can still be used
How can the uab career center help you?
The most common mistake with the CV is a shortage of information. Make an appointment with a career advisor to review the first draft of your CV. We will talk through all of your experiences to identify areas of relevance that may be missing and help you tell the story of your accomplishments.
If you are a postdoc, please contact your career advisor in the Office of Postdoctoral Education, Britney Blackstock,, at (205) 934-6809 or Brfields@uab.edu