Forum - Ask the Hiring Manager

QUESTION:

I am a Computer Science major but I don't have any exprience in the field. I have worked for my school as a Math Tutor and a Resident Assistant, but none of those have anything to do with my major. I am currently looking for internships to fix that problem. However, what do I do with the "work Experience" section of my resume? I can't leave it empty, but I feel like putting unrelated job experience wouldn't be a good idea either.

From: Nadya, Junior, Averett University


ANSWER FROM BRIAN KRUEGER:

Hi Nadya -

No one is expecting to see related experience in the work experience section. However, you should attempt to show any features from your work as a tutor and RA which may apply. But this section will typically be very short for someone currently in school looking for an internship.

Focus instead on your coursework and especially if you have had any significant "work-like" projects in your studies.

Think of your one-page as being worth $50. Each line on the page is $1. Spend each dollar wisely. If you can use a line for something which is of more value, shift the length and focus to that area.

But always write from the "other side of the desk" perspective. You need to provide information which will help the reader/reviewer arrive at making two decisions:

1. Is this someone I want to interview?

2. Is this someone I want to hire?

Keeping that in mind, focus what you provide to your strongest suit. If it is your tutoring and RA work (keep in mind that many college students have NO experience or are simply flipping burgers at McD's, so two positions of this type which show leadership and problem-solving ARE important) is the most important, focus there. If you have classes and projects which are more important, shift the focus there. But spend your dollars wisely, making the investment which provides the best return.

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All job search information at this forum is provided by Brian Krueger, author of the book College Grad Job Hunter, the definitive guide for college grad job search. Used by permission of the author.