• Action Verbs to Use
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter Examples

Resumes and Cover Letters for Master’s Students

What is the purpose of a resume?

A resume is a brief, informative summary of your abilities, education, and experience. It should highlight your strongest assets and skills and differentiate you from other candidates seeking similar positions. Remember that a strong resume is an important step toward obtaining an interview. Tailor your resume to the type of position you are seeking. Your resume should reflect the kinds of skills the employer values based on the role you’re applying for.

I’m planning on applying to several different types of jobs. Will I be expected to write different resumes for each one?

It’s important to think about your reader. Let’s say you are receiving a master’s degree in data science and are applying for roles in tech as well as generalist positions in big consulting firms. You will want to target each resume to the specific employer. For example, employers in tech will be interested in relevant projects and experience analyzing datasets. Be clear about how you developed those skills in courses or internship experiences. Consulting firms will be concerned with leadership and teamwork skills; in that case, you might want to include more information about your involvement with student groups, volunteer work, or internships. Resume writing can be difficult. MCS supports the responsible use of generative AI as a tool to support your career and professional development. Learn more.

A friend of mine, who is in business school, told me I need to have a one-page resume. Is that true?

For most master’s degree candidates, it is typical and often preferred to have a one-page resume. Normally two- page resumes are acceptable if you are advanced in your career, have years of experience, or have a PhD. For BA/BS, MA/MS, and MBA candidates, a one-page resume is the norm. When in doubt, ask one of the GSAS advisers.

Are there formatting guidelines I should keep in mind?

Stick to a common, easy to read font, and avoid text boxes, color, and shading. We discourage the use of templates. Font size should be between 10 and 12 point and kept consistent throughout the document. Margins should be equal all the way around the page and should be at least three quarters of an inch in size.

Can someone at the Mignone Center for Career Success review my resume?

Yes. Weekly resume review drop-in hours are available. You may also have your resume reviewed as part of an advising appointment with a Harvard Griffin GSAS staff member (to schedule an appointment, visit our website and follow the directions on Crimson Careers). Note that alumni in Firsthand Advisors also offer industry-specific resume critiques.

Am I eligible for the Campus Interview Program at Harvard? How does it work?

Master’s degree candidates in the Harvard Griffin GSAS are able to search for and apply to many Recruiting Program jobs and internships, including some with campus interviews. Be aware that the Recruiting Program is primarily for entry-level hiring of undergraduates. Employers will indicate in their job description and requirements section whether or not they are willing to receive applications from Harvard Griffin GSAS master’s students.

Describe your experiences with these action verbs

Resume Examples

Click on the image below for downloadable resume samples (pdf).

Cover Letter Examples

Your Name Street Address
City, State Zip Code Your Email

Month Day, Year
Contact Name Title (if known) Organization Name Street Address
City, State Zip Code

Dear (Name/Title):

Opening paragraph (why them?):
Clearly state why you are writing. If applying for a job, indicate the position title and where you saw it advertised. If you were referred to the position from someone within the organization, or by someone the addressee knows, mention that as well. You may want to add a sentence on why you feel you are a good fit for the position, what draws you to the organization, what motivates you, or why you are seeking this experience as a next step in your professional journey.

Middle paragraph(s) (why you?):
You should have one or two paragraphs that elaborate on how you have developed the relevant skills required for the job, and any relevant experiences or education you have acquired. Of equal importance is your argument for how your interest in both the job and the organization developed. You will want to ensure that you include why it would be a logical decision on their part to hire you.

Closing paragraph:
Express interest in speaking with the addressee further in a personal interview, and indicate that you will follow up within an appropriate time frame. Thank them for their time and consideration of your application.

Sincerely,

Name (typed)

Click on the image below for downloadable cover letter samples (pdf).