<p>Just got my Bachelor’s of Science degree. A few questions as I modify my resume and begin my job search. </p>
<ol>
<li><p>I received “magna cum laude” with my degree. Should I put this on the resume or is just putting my GPA enough?</p></li>
<li><p>I won’t receive my actual degree for a few more weeks. This isn’t a problem of course, is it? Do employers ask to see your degree? I am hoping to be employed within the next few weeks.</p></li>
<li><p>I have “Hard working, enthusiastic, college graduate with B.S. in Biology seeking a job or internship related to research” on the top of my resume. Should I remove that, and just go straight to “education” and the vital information after my name/contact info? </p></li>
</ol>
<p>1) Yes.
2) No, not a problem. Some will ask for a copy in a month or two though. You should’ve been searching while still in school, was there a particular reason you waited?
3) Remove that. Anything you cannot substantiate, do not include in your resume. Anyone can say they’re hard working, analytical, brilliant, etc etc. Make sure any trait you’re highlighting on your resume and cover letter is backed by something you’ve done.</p>
<p>I don’t include an objective on my resume. You may include a brief summary which outlines any prior work experience/internships you may have had that is relevant to the position you are applying for, but I don’t usually include that either; if you are sending a cover letter with your resume, then the summary would just go there. Focus instead on your education, any prior research experience, awards/honors, etc.</p>
<p>The rule I’ve always been told is “show, don’t tell.” That means in the rest of your resume you should be showing how that is true instead of just telling them at the beginning.</p>
<p>I just got off of LinkedIn and I wanted to add that an objective/summary <em>is</em> useful if you are posting your resume on a career website for various employers to see (such as LinkedIn, Careerbuilder, Monster, etc.). But like RacinReaver said, it shouldn’t just be full of sweeping generalizations. Also, saying that you are seeking a job or internship “related to research” isn’t very specific. I do “research” in my current HR position, but it is probably not the kind of research you’re looking to do :)</p>
<p>However, I stand by what I said previously that if you are writing a resume to send out to a specific employer - your objective/summary is best kept in the cover letter, and the resume should demonstrate what you are claiming.</p>
<ol>
<li>Yes, it has more to it than just the resume. At my university, you have to have a 3.9 GPA, honors standing, and honors thesis to be magna cum laude. So, 4.0 GPA without magna cum laude does not look as good as 3.9 GPA with magna cum laude.</li>
<li>No.</li>
<li>Don’t include objective section in your resume.</li>
</ol>
<p>I am confused. If you have already graduated and hoping to be employed within the next few weeks, why are you asking resume questions?</p>