Stand Out to Employers: Resume Template, Tips, and Review Support
Resume Template and Tips
This resume template was developed with input from Triton alumni and industry professionals familiar with the USP/RED programs. Their feedback indicated that UCSD students often undersell their skills and experiences on their resumes. To address this, the template differs from standard formats in two key ways:
1. Relevant Coursework Section
Placed under the Education section, this allows students to list courses directly related to the positions they are applying for. This is important because academic programs vary widely, and employers cannot always infer specific knowledge, skills, and experience from a major title alone.
2. Projects Section
Modeled after the Experience section, this highlights academic or independent projects that demonstrate relevant skills. For many students, projects are their strongest qualifications, especially since USP/RED coursework often includes work that directly translates to professional roles such as creating GIS maps, evaluating planning documents, conducting market analyses, preparing Excel pro formas, designing urban interventions, analyzing data, and developing research projects or proposals. Projects also showcase transferable skills including teamwork, leadership, collaboration, time management, communication, and presentation abilities.
Key Point: Do not assume employers understand what a USP/RED major or minor entails. Make your skills and accomplishments explicit by listing relevant coursework and projects.
Note: These recommendations are designed for students and recent alumni seeking their first full-time role. Once alumni progress to their second career position, these sections should typically be shortened or removed to emphasize professional experience.
Make your first impression count. Schedule a resume review.
After completing a full draft of their resume students should have a professional review of their resume completed by UCSD's Career Center staff or DUSP's Director of Industry Relations and Student Professional Development.
Why get your resume reviewed by a career professional?
Your resume is often the very first impression you make on an employer, so it’s important to make it count. Even if you think your resume looks good, a trained career advising professional can help you take it to the next level.
Career advising professionals know exactly what employers are looking for in students and recent grads. They can help you highlight your skills, projects, and experiences in ways that really stand out. They’ll also catch common mistakes that could hurt your chances and show you how to tailor your resume for different opportunities.
Think of it as having a coach in your corner - you’ve already done the work through classes, projects, and jobs; they’ll help you showcase it clearly and confidently. Getting feedback now can make the difference between your resume getting passed over or landing you that interview.
Make an appointment for a resume review
- This can be completed by the full-time staff at the UCSD Career Center or Jennifer Eller DUSP's Director of Industry Relations and Student Professional Development.
- Note: In preparation for meeting with Jennifer students must have first completed one of these three steps:
1) Had their resume or cover letter reviewed at the UCSD Career Center by one of their full-time staff members OR2) Have attended Jennifer's quarterly workshop on resumes and cover letters OR3) Completed USP 30 or USP 50
Additional resources:
- The Muse's Resume Advice
- Career Contessa's Resume Advice
- UCSD Career Center Resume Tips and Cover Letter Basics
