Resume/CV question

[steiner-5]

Hi all,

I am starting to work on my resume/CV for the six schools to which I am applying. I have been out of school working in the private sector for about 6 years, so my resume as it stands is geared to my current field (Finance). From what I understand, a CV for the applications should be more free-flowing and is non-insistent on keeping it all to one page. Are there any stylistic tips I should be aware of?

Also, all the MPP programs I am looking at have strong quantitative bents. One of the programs asked for a "Quantitative Resume" in addition to the regular one stating all of the quantitative classes you've taken and what concepts were covered. They explain that it can be hard to tell from the transcripts alone what each class really taught. Would it be prudent or advantageous to include a "Quantitative Background" section in my CV for ALL the programs?

Obviously they will see "Intro to Mathematical Logic" on my transcript (which is super vague), but on a resume I'd explain it

Introduction to Mathematical Logic

Symbolic logic as a precise formalization of deductive thought. Logical correctness of reasoning. Formal languages, interpretations, and truth. Propositional logic and first-order quantifier logic suited to deductions encountered in mathematics. Goedel

[Joel418]

I taught a class with a nebulous name ("Music, Meaning, and Culture"). Instead of specifying its content and purpose in my resume, I used a quick parenthetical in my personal statement to describe it while describing how my experiences had prepared me for graduate studies.

Just a thought; good luck!

[aginath]

Look at the CVs of faculty members who interest you. After reviewing two or three, you'll see patterns and best practices that stand out.

[belowthree]

Look at the CVs of faculty members who interest you. After reviewing two or three, you'll see patterns and best practices that stand out.

Normally I'd say this is spot on, but the experiences of a faculty member and the experiences of an undergraduate student applying to a school differ widely. Sections a faculty member would never dream of listing on their CV, like a listing of classes they took as undergrads and what they felt they got out of it, seem to be standard sections for the CV the OP is talking about.

So I would definitely include any sections you find on a faculty member's CV in your field, but also include additional sections that highlight your own experience. This means things like industry work experience, which may not always show up on an academic CV, are perfectly acceptable on your own.

[alicealice]

The one-page rule that is common for professional resumes does not apply to CVs. In your CV you may wish to add short descriptions of each of your research and industry experiences, focussing on the aspects most directly related to your proposed area of research. Don't include non-standard material when it isn't solicited by the program: provide a Quantitative Background document for the program that requires it, but for the rest of the applications use your `statement of purpose' to describe briefly the courses you have taken.