Commonly Asked Resume Questions

Can I just use one resume for everything? Do I really need to tailor my resume?

Resume is not one-size-fits-all. Tailoring helps you highlight the most relevant skills and experiences for each opportunity. You can have a general version, but it should always be customized depending on the job, internship, or program you’re applying for.

What should I do if the job description is super vague or unclear?

Some companies/organizations really are not the best at drafting descriptions of the roles they are seeking and others are intentionally vague. If you run into this challenge with tailoring, try to:

• Look up similar roles at other companies to get a better sense of typical responsibilities
• Search for full-time versions of the internship you’re applying to. They often have more detailed descriptions
• Browse LinkedIn to see how current or former employees describe their roles
• Review the company’s mission statement to find keywords and values you can reflect in your resume
• Talk to someone in the field through an informational interview and ask about common skills and tasks
• Check in with Career Services—certain industries like consulting are vague in job descriptions, but we have general knowledge of how to write resumes for these spaces

What if I can’t fit everything onto one page?

This is a common challenge, especially if you’ve had several jobs, internships, or campus involvements. While it’s not a strict rule, most employers expect a one-page resume for entry-level roles. A longer resume doesn’t always mean a stronger one, so here’s how to tighten things up:

• Edit for clarity and impact. Trim any unnecessary words from your bullet points and keep the focus on your contributions and outcomes
• Prioritize relevance. Remove older roles (especially those over five years old) or anything that doesn’t directly support the opportunity you’re applying for
• Adjust formatting. Use 0.5-inch margins and a legible font size (no smaller than 10 pt) to make the most of your space without sacrificing readability
• Keep a comprehensive version. Maintain a longer resume for your records, and pull from it to create tailored, one-page versions for each application

What if I don’t have much to include?

You’re not alone—many students worry they don’t have “enough.” The good news is, your resume is about potential and transferable skills, not just formal experience. You likely have more than you think. Coursework, volunteer work, campus involvement, and part-time jobs all count. You can also add relevant skills or interests.

Here are a few ways to build it out:

• Highlight your skills. Include software, lab techniques, or tools you’ve learned in class or on your own
• Add relevant coursework, especially if it involved group projects, presentations, or research
• Use athletics or other commitments. If you play a sport or commit time to an activity, describe the leadership, teamwork, and discipline involved
• Include high school experiences. This is totally fine if you’re early in college or if the experience is still relevant
• Show your interests. Add a short section for hobbies or topics you explore in your free time—they can spark conversation and show well-roundedness

Can I use AI tools like ChatGPT to help write my resume?

Yes, AI tools can be useful for brainstorming bullet points or organizing your ideas. However, AI should be a starting point, not your final draft. Always review and edit for accuracy, personal voice, and relevance to the role. For detailed tips, examples, and best practices, see the “Using AI Tools for Resume/CV” section of this guide.