Hard skills are technical abilities such as strong writing, critical analysis, and research skill that an English major should highlight to excel in various fields.
English Major Resume Examples & Templates
Looking for your next opportunity? Our English major resume examples showcase skills like writing skill, critical thinking, and communication to help you stand out to potential employers.
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Popular English Major Resume Examples
Check out our top English major resume examples that emphasize skills such as analytical thinking, communication, and creative writing. These examples will help you showcase your strengths to potential employers.
Ready to put together an impressive resume? Our Resume Builder offers user-friendly templates designed specifically for graduates in the humanities, making it easier for you to shine in your job applications.
Recommended
Content writer resume
What this resume does well:
The resume showcases a clean, professional layout and well-chosen professional fonts that improve readability, making it easy for hiring managers to quickly assess the applicant's qualifications. These design choices not only highlight the applicant's writing skills but also reflect their attention to detail, creating a strong first impression.
Technical writer resume
What this resume does well:
This resume effectively balances technical writing and content strategy skills with comprehensive experience. By showcasing these abilities alongside detailed work history, employers gain a clear understanding of the job seeker's skill in improving documentation effectiveness and user engagement across various roles.
Copy editor resume
What this resume does well:
This resume skillfully uses bullet points to present a wealth of experience clearly and concisely, ensuring quick comprehension for hiring managers. The thoughtful arrangement of sections, combined with ample spacing, allows key qualifications and achievements to shine without cluttering the page.
Resume Template—Easy to Copy & Paste
Sophia Smith
Jacksonville, FL 32207
(555)555-5555
Sophia.Smith@example.com
Professional Summary
Results-driven English Major with expertise in SEO and content creation. Proven success in increasing team efficiency and enhancing publication quality. Skilled in leading projects and strategies in dynamic editorial settings.
Work History
English Major
Literature Insights Group - Jacksonville, FL
January 2022 - December 2025
- Enhanced grammar accuracy by 40%
- Created 18 engaging content guides
- Led team in publishing 30% more articles
Content Editor
Wordsmith Collective - Jacksonville, FL
January 2018 - December 2021
- Improved readability scores by 20%
- Managed projects worth over k
- Reduced publication errors by 35%
Writing Specialist
Creative Prose Studios - Tampa, FL
January 2016 - December 2017
- Oversaw creative writing workshops
- Boosted team efficiency by 25%
- Initiated collaboration across departments
Skills
- Content Strategy
- Editing and Proofreading
- Creative Writing
- SEO Optimization
- Team Leadership
- Critical Analysis
- Project Management
- Digital Publishing
Certifications
- Certified Content Specialist - Content Marketing Institute
- Advanced SEO Techniques - SEO Global Institute
Education
Master's Degree English Literature
University of Chicago Chicago, Illinois
June 2015
Bachelor's Degree Creative Writing
Illinois State University Normal, Illinois
June 2013
Languages
- Spanish - Beginner (A1)
- French - Intermediate (B1)
- German - Beginner (A1)
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How to Write an English Major Resume Summary
Your resume summary is the first thing employers notice, making it essential to create a compelling introduction that grabs their attention. As an English major, you should emphasize your strong communication skills, analytical thinking, and ability to engage with diverse texts.
Highlight experiences such as writing, editing, and research that showcase your qualifications for roles in various fields. These attributes are important in demonstrating your value as a job seeker.
To illustrate effective resume summaries, we’ll look at some examples that reveal what stands out and what doesn’t:
Weak resume summary
I am an English major with a passion for literature and writing. I have taken many classes and completed projects that I believe make me a good job seeker for a job in this field. I hope to find a position where I can use my skills and learn more about the industry while contributing positively to the company.
Why this summary misses the mark:
- Lacks specific details about relevant skills, experiences, or accomplishments that would attract employers
- Overuses personal language without demonstrating concrete value to potential employers
- Focuses on what the job seeker hopes to achieve rather than highlighting what they can bring to the organization
Strong resume summary
Creative and detail-oriented English major with over a year of experience in academic writing and content creation. Achieved a 20% increase in student engagement through innovative curriculum design and interactive workshops. Proficient in research methodologies, critical analysis, and digital storytelling, with a strong command of various writing styles.
Why this summary works:
- Begins with specific experience duration and relevant focus areas within English studies
- Highlights quantifiable achievement that showcases impact on student engagement
- Contains relevant skills that align with both academic and industry expectations for English majors
PRO TIP
If you’re new to the job market and don’t have much formal experience, consider using a career objective instead of a resume summary. This can effectively showcase your goals and enthusiasm. There are plenty of tailored resume objective examples available to guide you in your field.
Showcasing Your Work Experience
The work experience section is an important part of your resume as an English major, where you'll feature the bulk of your content. Good resume templates always include this section to highlight your relevant experiences.
Organize this section in reverse-chronological order, detailing your past roles in clear bullet points. Each point should focus on what you've achieved, whether it's through internships, writing projects, or academic positions.
To help you visualize effective entries, we will provide a couple of examples that showcase strong practices and common pitfalls:
Weak work experience
English Major Intern
Creative Writing Institute – Los Angeles, CA
- Wrote essays and papers.
- Attended classes and took notes.
- Worked with professors and peers.
- Participated in group discussions.
Why this work experience section misses the mark:
- Lacks specific accomplishments or contributions made during the internship
- Bullet points are too generic and do not highlight unique skills or experiences
- Doesn't mention any projects or recognition received, missing an opportunity to showcase achievements
Strong work experience
English Major Intern
University of State – Cityville, ST
August 2020 - May 2023
- Conducted in-depth literary analysis for over 20 major works, improving critical thinking and interpretative skills.
- Collaborated with peers on research projects leading to a 30% improvement in presentation clarity and engagement.
- Mentored underclassmen in writing workshops, resulting in a noticeable increase in their essay scores by an average of 15%.
Why this work experience section works:
- Starts each bullet point with dynamic action verbs that highlight the applicant’s contributions
- Incorporates specific metrics to illustrate the impact of the applicant’s efforts
- Showcases relevant skills like collaboration, analysis, and mentorship that are important for an English major
While your resume summary and work experience are important components, don't overlook the importance of other sections that also need careful attention. For more detailed guidance on crafting a standout resume, explore our comprehensive guide on how to write a resume.
Top Skills to Include on Your Resume
A well-defined skills section is important for any resume, as it allows you to quickly showcase your qualifications to potential employers. This section acts as a snapshot of what you bring to the table, making it easier for hiring managers to see your fit for the role.
As an English major, emphasize both hard and soft skills alongside technical skills like proficiency in tools like Microsoft Word, content management systems, or research databases that illustrate your capabilities in writing and editing effectively.
Soft skills include interpersonal qualities like effective communication, creativity, and adaptability that matter for collaboration and engaging storytelling in diverse professional settings.
When selecting skills for your resume, it's important to align with what employers expect in an applicant. Many organizations use automated screening systems that filter out applicants lacking essential resume skills.
To improve your chances of being noticed, review job postings carefully for insight into the specific resume skills they seek. By tailoring your resume to reflect these priorities, you'll appeal to both recruiters and ATS systems alike.
PRO TIP
Ensure your resume stands out in the application process by using our ATS Resume Checker. It identifies over 30 common errors, making it easier for you to navigate applicant tracking software.
10 skills that appear on successful English major resumes
Improve your resume to attract recruiters by highlighting essential skills sought after in English major positions. You can find these competencies illustrated in our resume examples, enabling you to approach job applications with the assurance that a well-crafted resume provides.
Consider incorporating these 10 skills into your resume if they align with your experiences and the demands of the roles you’re targeting:
Analytical thinking
Creative writing
Research skill
Editing and proofreading
Attention to detail
Public speaking
Time management
Team collaboration
Digital literacy
Cultural awareness
Based on analysis of 5,000+ education professional resumes from 2023-2024
Resume Format Examples
Selecting the appropriate resume format is important for an English major because it helps highlight your writing skills, relevant coursework, and experiences in a clear and engaging way.
Entry-Level 0 - 2 years
Functional
Focuses on skills rather than previous jobs
Best for:
Recent graduates and career changers with up to two years of experience
Mid-Career 3 - 7 years
Combination
Balances skills and work history equally
Best for:
Mid-career professionals focused on demonstrating their skills and potential for growth
Experienced 8+ years
Chronological
Emphasizes work history in reverse order
Best for:
Seasoned experts leading innovative literary projects and curriculum development
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I include a cover letter with my English major resume?
Absolutely, including a cover letter can significantly improve your application by allowing you to showcase your personality and explain how your skills align with the job. It gives you an opportunity to highlight relevant experiences. For assistance in crafting your cover letter, explore our comprehensive guide on how to write a cover letter or use our easy Cover Letter Generator for a quick start.
Can I use a resume if I’m applying internationally, or do I need a CV?
When applying for jobs abroad, use a CV instead of a resume. A CV offers a comprehensive view of your academic and professional history. Explore how to write a CV with our resources for guidance on formatting and tips to create a powerful document. Additionally, review some CV examples to ensure your application stands out.
What soft skills are important for English majors?
Soft skills such as critical thinking, communication, and creativity are essential for English majors. These interpersonal skills enable effective collaboration with peers and help articulate ideas clearly, fostering strong relationships in both academic and professional settings.
I’m transitioning from another field. How should I highlight my experience?
Highlight your transferable skills such as communication, critical thinking, and creativity from previous roles. These abilities can illustrate your potential contributions to an English major position, even if you lack direct experience. Share specific examples of how you've applied these skills in real situations to align with the responsibilities expected in the field.
How do I write a resume with no experience?
As an English major with limited work experience, focus on showcasing your coursework, writing samples, and any relevant projects. To create an effective resume with no experience, highlight skills such as critical thinking, communication, and creativity. Employers value these attributes highly, so present your potential confidently. Remember that your unique perspective can truly resonate with hiring managers.
How do I add my resume to LinkedIn?
To increase your career's visibility online, add your resume to LinkedIn by uploading it to your profile and highlighting key skills in the "About" and "Experience" sections. This approach helps recruiters find you more easily by showcasing your qualifications as an English major, making you a strong applicant for relevant opportunities.
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