Resume help!

Published Dec 2, 2008

1 Post

Hello, everyone!

So, the end of this semester is quickly approaching and I am about to embark on the much dreaded first nursing job hunt (I'll be finished with school in May 2009). I already have several positions that I am interested in am eager to apply to; the only problem is, I can't seem to shorten my resume! I have clinical experience in six settings, so that takes up a page in itself. I also did not want to omit my academic honors, so there was another third of a page. I wasn't sure what was relevant to include for previous work experience... I am currently working as a "student nurse apprentice" at a local teaching hospital so definitely highlighted that, and also included a receptionist position at a facility offering outpatient rehabilitation services, a clinical nutrition assistant position at another local hospital, and a managerial position at a coffee shop. I was kind of torn about the last one, but felt that the title would reflect leadership skills and abilities which I know many employers are seeking in their job candidates. When that's all said and done, my resume has ended up being three pages long, and I know the general rule of thumb is that it should be two at the maximum. :banghead:

Does anyone have any recommendations or suggestions for things to omit, or possible revisions I could make? I felt like I did a lot of repeating when describing my experiences as a student nurse in the clinical setting and as a student nurse apprentice, but the fundamental difference between the two was that in the former, I was in the role of a nurse, while in the latter, I'm in the role of a nurse's aide. Also, a few of the positions that I'm applying for state "BSN preferred," but I'm graduating from an ADN program. I am in the process of completing prerequisites for an RN-to-BSN program, and am applying for one upon graduation. Should I also include that in the resume? I could send my resume to anyone who is interested in helping.

Thanks in advance!

Isabella