While
preparing to write a resume one must have often come across the
term “Curriculum Vitae”. Just another synonym for resume?
Not really. At least not when it comes to the U.S. of A. In America
the resume and the C.V (as it is commonly known), are rather different
from one another. Well, then what exactly is a “C.V”
in the American sense of it? The term "curriculum vitae"
translates as something close to "course of life"--
a detailed, lengthy and structured listing of education, publications,
projects, awards and work history. Curriculum vitae can sometimes
run into ten or more pages. Remember, it is “detailed”
information.
Who needs
a "C.V."?
A C.V is required
for certain positions, most common of them being educators, scientists
and other academia related specialists. Job seekers with extensive
academic and professional credentials applying for positions in
education or research need to possess a C.V. .A CV is appropriate
for PhD's, M.Phil’s, MFA's, and MA's seeking teaching or
research positions. Colleges, universities, and research institutions
generally require a CV. It is essential for academic as well as
administrative positions in education-related careers. In applying
for positions in higher education, the CV generally takes the
place of the printed application form. Typically, one is expected
to submit a letter of application(detailed), a CV, a writing sample
and other supporting documents.
Where is
a “C.V” not needed?
Be sure that
you give a “C.V” only where it is neccesary to do so.
It may work against you if a resume was actually expected. Most
employers –private business, government and the like, anyday
look for a brief one-page account of your proof-of-worthiness.
What should be included in a “C.V”?
•
Name, address(es), phone number(s), e-mail address •
Objective: What postion exactly are you applying for? •
Educational background: Academic preparation - College degrees
with details •
Relevant work experience : position-related •
Specific skills: Computer programs, lab techniques, etc. •
Publications/ exhibitions/ performances papers etc. submitted
for publication •
Current research interests •
Paper/ posters presented at conferences •
Grants received •
Honours, awards and fellowships •
Professional organisation memberships •
Professional services •
Travel •
Languages known and/or other skills •
Personal interests •
References
What to
exclude?
Personal details
must be strictly excluded from a C.V. Such as age, sex, marital
status, race, ethnic background and religion, personal preferences,
biases and political leanings etc.
Condensed
version
“C.V”
is nothing but a “Condensed Version” of you and your
achievments.So it must effectively summarise all of this information.However,
unlike a resume your “C.V” can be much longer. The CV
generally ranges from two to dozens of pages in length, depending
upon factors such as the extent of one's research record or the
stage of one's career.
Outside the
U.S, resume and C.V are synonymous the world over.So use your
discretion and prepare a resume or a C.V accordingly, depending
on the position and the location you are applying to.
