DOCTOR TOM'S TOP TEN TIPS: A PRESCRIPTION FOR YOUR PHARMACY RESUME

If you follow the standard "rules" for resume writing, you will end up with one that looks the same as all ofthe other new pharmacists. Let's see if we can create a resume that reflects your personality without losing itsprofessional image. Things to consider if you would like your resume to reflect a little of your personality:

1. Add your school or college of pharmacy logo near its name.

2. Consider purchasing resume paper with your school's or college's watermark.

3. Highlight your accomplishments while in class or during your experientialeducation.

4. Be sure to include activities and interests that demonstrate creativity orleadership.

5. Use boldfaced type for those accomplishments for which you are most proud.

6. Purchase pocket folders so that you can placeyour cover letter on the left side and yourresume on the right side.

7. Create a career objective that demonstratesenergy, enthusiasm, and yourvalue to the pharmacy.

8. If you have participated in a research project, published or developed aservice, be sure to include them even if it takes more than a 1-pageresume.

9. If you include activities or interests, be sure that they translate to asuccessful employee. As an example, volunteer service to a health-relatedorganization demonstrates your concern for people.

10. A creative motto can "say" a lot in very few words. As an example, apharmacy preceptor position might benefit from a motto, such as "Teaching Through Experience."Ifyou can think of a motto that is clever and catchy, you might consider using it.

Dr. Tom O'Connor is thepharmacy student clerkshipcoordinator at the AlbertEinstein Medical Center inPhiladelphia, Pa. He has taughtclinical pharmacy and pharmacymanagement at 3 differentschools of pharmacy and servesas the career counselor on thePharmacy Times Web site.