How far back do I go on my resume/CV?
This month’s career tip is how far back to go on your resume/CV. If you are grappling with this question, you are not alone! This is one of the most commonly asked questions I receive at OCPD and there are a lot of different schools of thought on this topic.How do I establish myself in a new position?
This month’s tip is on how to establish yourself in a new position. Whether you are starting an internship, residency, or new job, below are several tips that can help you successfully transition into this new role.How do I obtain a strong letter of recommendation/reference?
This month’s tip is on obtaining a strong letter of recommendation or reference. Letters of recommendation are often requested for residency, scholarship, and graduate school applications, while references are generally requested when applying for employment/postdoctoral scholar positions.Should I include an "Interests" section on my resume/CV?
This month’s tip is on whether to include an “Interests” section on a resume/CV. There are a number of different opinions on this topic.* An “Interests” section is optional, and can be included if you have room on your resume/CV. I believe it is one of the most underestimated sections.How do I build a relationship with my mentor?
We have all been there. We had one (or several) really great meetings with our mentor. But now what? How do we keep that relationship going? Below are several tips:How do I respond to one of the most dreaded interview questions?
I recently received a question regarding how to approach one of the most dreaded types of interview questions--the behavioral interview question. Examples include:How do I write an effective thank you note?
This month's tip is on the art of writing a thank you note. I recommend writing a thank you note after every interview or networking interaction. Writing a thank you note is important because:How do I negotiate a salary as a new graduate?
This month, I received a request to discuss salary negotiations for new graduates. Negotiating salaries can feel very stressful, especially if we are new to this process. Below are several tips for successful salary negotiations:How do I network at a virtual conference?
Due to the pandemic, many events and programs will now be held virtually. Below are several tips to consider when approaching the networking process at a virtual conference:How do I answer the "Tell us about yourself" interview question?
Due to the open-ended nature of this question, knowing how to respond to this question can be challenging. How far back do I go? Do I bring up personal information like where I was born or how many siblings I have? How much information should I include?Pages
Upcoming Events
Mon
13
Career and Professional Development Writing Retreat
Date: January 13, 2025
Time: 12 - 4:30 p.m.
Fri
24
OCPD Office Hours (for Graduate Students and Postdocs)
Date: January 24, 2025
Time: 2 - 3 p.m.
About Sara's Career Tips
Hi there! I'm Sara Ayazi. As a career counselor here at the Office of Career and Professional Development, my goal is to help you navigate your career successfully! Each month I write a bite-sized tip on commonly asked career-related questions.
On this page you will find an archive of all of my tips. To receive these monthly tips via email, sign up for our email list.
