Writing a Student CV
As a student, you need to start creating your curriculum vitae (CV) as soon as you can. Your CV will become a vital tool in helping you get a job, whether it be part-time to help out whilst you study or trying to get your first job in the industry you have chosen.
Understanding how to write a CV is essential but you need to know how a student CV differs slightly from others.
A CV is basically a written document that focuses on your work experience, knowledge, and skills. It will touch briefly on your character, but being a student, it is unlikely you will have had many work experiences.
As a student applying for jobs, a prospective employer will understand you are unlikely to have lots of practical experience so will expect to see this section of your CV a little lacking. Your student CV however gives you the opportunity to include the positive attributes of your character that you could bring to the job, giving them an idea as to what your strengths are and what motivates you.
Whether you choose to write your own CV or use one of the many templates to be found online, it should ALWAYS include the following basics.
Personal Details
- Name
- Contact Numbers
- Email Address
Make sure to put these at the top of the page and if your email address does not sound too professional, create a new one for your job hunting.
Education and Qualifications
Your most recent class/course should always be at the top of this section of your CV. Remember to include any specific skill sets you have learnt or any significant projects that you have worked on.
Work Experience/Skills
If you do not have any work experience then you may think you have nothing to include in this section of your first CV, however, adding that you have specific skills that are relevant to the job will be beneficial. These could be using Abode programs such as Photoshop, using and understanding Microsoft products or even posting ads on social media.
Keep it Short
To help stick to the most important information keep your CV to only one page if possible, this saves time for your potential employer and will hopefully make a good impression quickly.
Use Social Media
If you do not have a LinkedIn profile yet, it is a good idea to set one up, this will then grow over time and prospective employers can take a look.
Include a Cover Letter
Not always necessary but because a cover letter should be job-specific, it will show you have done your homework and researched the company and role, and this can be tied into what you can bring to the table.
Now you have the basics on how to write your CV, you can take the first steps to getting the job you want.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our blog ‘Writing a Student CV’ and if we can be of any assistance in securing your student accommodation please don’t hesitate to contact us.