sad little CV

[KieBelle]

I'm totally stressing about my CV and need a bit of help. My problem is that while I've been out of school for almost 5 years, NONE of my work experience is relevant to the programs I'm applying to. So do I leave it off completely? (And I really don't think it's possible to somehow twist it to sound relevant- waiting tables and office administrative work is pretty far from ME Studies.) Also, is it normal for someone applying to an MA program to have a very short and sad looking CV? I'm a member of 2 national honor societies, I presented one paper as an undergrad, but no publications, no research, no year-long trips to sub-Saharan Africa to feed starving children, etc etc. I'm hoping that a fabulous SOP and strong LORs will offset my puny CV.

[rising_star]

When I applied to MA programs, the only things on my CV were my senior thesis and the research papers I wrote outside of class as a junior. I didn't put any extracurriculars or jobs on, but then I was applying straight from undergrad.

[socialcomm]

If anything, your professional experience can show the work ethic you have. I wouldn't leave it off entirely, even if it's not entirely relevant to your future plans.

[rainy_day]

I'm planning on adding my work experience because I have been working hard and I think it's important to show that I wasn't off on vacation for the past few years.

[kent shakespeare]

plenty of people entering MA programs don't have a lot on their CVs. Many are either right out of undergrad, or maybe took a year or three off and worked.

[fuzzylogician]

When I started my MA I had exactly zero publications, presented in zero conferences, worked on zero research projects, and went on zero trips to feed starving kids in Africa. Don't worry, I'm sure this is the case for most applicants. Part of why you get an MA is to have the chance to do all those things (well, except the Africa thing maybe). A good SOP that explains why you're interested in your field, and talks about the need to gain experience and refine those interests can be convincing all on its own. Really, you have to start somewhere.

[noojens]

Are you asked for a CV or a resume?

If it's a Curriculum Vitae they ask for, then send them just that -- the "course of your life." A CV should be a relatively exhaustive list of your life's achievements. Don't skimp.

If it's a resume, then keep it concise -- just include the experience that's relevant to the position you're seeking.

Good luck