In this previous article, you learn about the importance of accreditation for universities and programs, particularly how they impact the ability to teach in higher ed and resources to use for a better understanding of accreditation.

Once job requirements and accreditation are aligned with your qualifications, and you've found the job posting that matches your desires, you may be confident that you are the best person for this particular job.

As you're reading through the job advertisement, you notice that you must prepare and submit a Curriculum Vitae (CV). You may have never heard this phrase and have no idea what this means. Rest assured, you are not alone. When I found the job I wanted on HigherEdJobs, I worked extremely hard to ensure my resume was strong and ready to go. As I read the position requirements, I noticed that the phrase "curriculum vitae" was everywhere instead of "resume." Off to the Google search engine, I sought to find out what this was and how to prepare one as good as the resume I already had. There are several internet pages full of information that will answer all of your questions about the curriculum vitae, and there are some valuable nuggets in this article to get you started.

Let's start at the beginning.

What is a Curriculum Vitae, Often Abbreviated as a CV?
Corporate Finance Institute states:

"A curriculum vitae is a document that job applicants use to showcase their academic and professional accomplishments. It is used to apply for positions within areas where a person's specific knowledge or expertise is required. A curriculum vitae is usually longer than a resume and must include the information that the recruiter needs to verify the skills, experience, and educational qualifications of an applicant."

What is the Difference Between a CV and a Resume?
This site explains that resumes are normally competency-based, highlighting skills, achievements, and experience. CVs are credential based, providing lengthy examples of one's education, certifications, research experience, and professional affiliations. A CV should include your teaching experience, publications, fellowships, professional associations, awards, and any other credentials relevant to the job you are applying for. If you are applying for a job in education, you should put your education and teaching experience at the top of your CV. This is where formatting differs from a standard resume, where your work experience is of primary focus and may appear first on the document.

So, as a veteran, you may wonder how to put teaching experience in a CV if you have not had formal teaching experience in any educational institution setting. Do not be discouraged, you should include any experiences with leadership development or mentoring forums, such as appearing as guest speakers, panelists, or any other medium that includes teaching prepared material in a classroom or similar setting. Many military professions are education-based, and if you have worked in those specialties and wish to pursue faculty positions in higher education, then it is beneficial to prepare a CV long before starting your job search. That way you can do ample research to ensure you put the best product forward. In the academic market, a CV is essential. It is your first introduction to the search committee, and will help you move from application to interview.

It may also be helpful to consider these Curriculum Vitae "Dos and Don'ts" in preparing your CV.

Before getting started on your CV, it's helpful to view examples or download templates. I recommend visiting "The Balance Careers" or the "Purdue Online Writing Lab," as they were helpful in my experience and have helped numerous professionals and students prepare a variety of written communication documents.

Remember to research until your fingers are tired. The more information you can gather regarding job requirements, qualifications, CV preparation, and cover letters, the better you will be prepared to land the job you want and deserve. Start by documenting or jotting down all of your educational and professional accomplishments. Then, begin to highlight the information pertinent to the jobs you are seeking. You may have more than one resume or CV, depending on the opportunities that present themselves. The goal of early preparation is that when you see the job advertisement, you can submit your CV and any other required documents immediately.

I was once asked, "Are you a procrastinator?" I answered, "No. I begin working on a task as soon as it is presented to me." Then, they retorted, "Do you hit the snooze button in the morning?" You can guess what I answered. The point is that we all put things off, even if it is only for 15 minutes, and it is okay to rest a little longer. So, once you've had your rest and that cup of coffee black, don't hesitate to get behind the screen and start working on your future. The job is there, waiting for you to grab it. Just this one time, don't hit the snooze button.

Article Topics

Job Search Advice Women Veterans Working as a Veteran in HigherEd

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