Graduate School Resume Template for MS Word

Your summary statement is often your first impression with employers. This section is where you can market yourself and your abilities, but by the same token, it’s important to be aware of the words you include.

Because summary statements should be concise, it is ideal to use keywords found in the job listing so that you can get straight to the point. This way, you can attract employers and truly reflect your talents. Format your statement in bullet points or in a short, three-sentence paragraph, and don’t forget to include the following:

• Top skills that can apply to the position

• Your professional title

• Job-descriptive language

Our graduate school resume template for Word and these other examples can help you break free of your summary statement writer’s block.

Example 1

Experienced laboratory assistant with knowledge of various specimens and equipment. Equipped to conduct research and analyze data. Organized with procedures and enthusiastic about advancements in biology.

Example 2

• Hard-working biology major with experience in research and laboratory methods

• Punctual and prioritizes deadlines

• Experienced in technical writing and the study of biological software

Example 3

• Studious and driven biology major with 3 years’ experience in laboratory work

• Goal-oriented and focused on advancements in the field

• Strong social skills and eager to contribute to academia

Example 4

Enthusiastic laboratory assistant prepared to take the next step in the field. Strong planning and presentation skills, with a background in biology studies. Trained in laboratory safety and knowledgeable of tools and environmental methods.

Enthusiastic laboratory assistant prepared to take the next step in the field. Strong planning and presentation skills, with a background in biology studies. Trained in laboratory safety and knowledgeable of tools and environmental methods.

The skills section of your resume is where you will give your top skills in the form of a short, concise list. Similar to your summary statement, this section is an opportunity for you to let your strongest moments shine. Using our graduate school resume template for Word, construct a list that you can confidently present to employers. Here are a few tips to get started:

• Give your skills in short phrases and don’t use periods at the end

• Emphasize relevant skills if you lack experience

• List 6-8 skills in the format of bullet points

Here is a list of skills relevant to your field:

• Strong researching and writing skills

• Experienced with laboratory equipment

• Trained in laboratory safety procedures and in data analysis

• Exceptional social and organizational skills

• Knowledgeable of recent developments in the field

• Effective presentation skills

• Familiar with biological classifications and with various life systems on planet Earth

Your work history section is more than a simple background of your work experience. Here, you can expand on the skills you have learned and impress employers with your ability to adapt to new professional environments. The following guidelines, along with our graduate school resume template for Word, can help you hone your writing skills in order to best present yourself to hiring managers.

• List work history in reverse chronological order

• Give 5-8 bullet points in each job description

• Ensure that you have listed the location of each position

• Get creative with word choice and avoid redundancy

• Include metrics to further validate your experiences

Below, you can find examples of descriptions that coincide with graduate school positions:

• Presented work at 15 conferences around the world

• Increased lab testing accuracy by 25%

• Created testable hypotheses and worked with teams to improve testing accuracy

• Helped manage and maintain a safe classroom environment

The importance of your education section depends on the position you are seeking. Make sure that you have researched the job listing so you can best complete this section. As seen in the graduate school resume template for Word, clearly list your education history without going overboard on detail. Follow these steps to continue composing your stellar graduate school resume:

• Don’t mention your high school if the job requires a college education

• List any certificates or training that may apply to the position

• Give your highest level of education first

Example 1

Bachelor of Science: General Biology – 2015

Florida Southern College – Lakeland, FL

Courses included: Introduction to biological sciences, biological sciences laboratory

Short course: Introduction to zoology, introduction to plant biology

Example 2

Associate of Science: Biology – 2016

Mesa Community College, Mesa, AZ

Courses included: Principles of genetics, genetics laboratory, conservation biology