Below is a list of common questions and answers related to the career search process, that take a special consideration of how to incorporate your international education experience.

How is a CV different from a resume?

CVs are used mostly in Europe, but also for people looking for jobs overseas or for faculty, research, science, or clinic positions.

What information should I include on my resume?

The information required on a CV varies between countries and often include more personal information (such as age, marital status, ethnicity) than resumes; the limits that exist in the U.S. are not the same in Europe.

Don't forget to include your study abroad experience on your resume, as well as what languages you are fluent in.  If you held an internship or volunteered while abroad, you should also include that information on your resume.

For some positions you are applying for, it may also make sense to include your study abroad experience in your cover letter, as it shows your versatility, your ability to adapt to change, global work experience (if applicable), cultural sensitivity, and also highlights the increased confidence and global awareness you likely gained as a result of living and learning abroad.

Are there any other tips for writing a resume or CV I should consider?

• Do a self-assessment before writing your resume to review your objectives and how you are qualified for the job.
• Use action verbs.
• Review and revise--does your resume communicate your goal, experience, skills, and qualifications?
• Check grammar and spelling.
• Have at least two other people proofread your resume to make sure it is error-free.
• If you are seeking international jobs/internships be sure to include all international experience and/or language skills you have acquired.
• Do not include personal information such as height/weight/marital status on a resume.
• Make your resume accessible to the employer as possible--well organized, margins, no small fonts.

Where can I find advice on the web?

• CVs, resumes, cover letters, and interviews: www.iagora.com/iwork/resumes/index.html [1]
• CV samples: jobsearch.about.com/od/curriculumvitae/Curriculum_Vitae.htm [2]
• Sample resumes and cover letters for students: jobsearch.about.com/library/samples/blsamplestudent.htm [3]
• International CV/Resume writing guidelines: jobera.com/International/CVs-Resumes [4]

How should I prepare for an interview?

• Thoroughly research the company
• Think of your specific skills and strengths and specific examples of accomplishments and challenges you have overcome (stories should have a beginning, middle, and an end)
• Prepare questions for your interviewer
• Do a mock interview with a career counselor

How should I handle myself in the interview?

Interview tips:

• Plan to arrive early
• Dress appropriately
• Use a firm handshake and look your interviewer in the eye when you meet
• Bring several copies of your resume, a notepad, and a pen
• Be specific when answering questions and give examples
• Ask questions
• Be aware of non-verbal behavior. Don't fidget or look bored--show confidence!
• Write thank you notes to everyone you spoke to within 24 hours

What questions should I ask in an interview?

Sample questions to ask:

• How is a typical day structured?
• Can you describe the types of working relationships I might encounter in this job?
• How would you describe the character of this company? What is the working atmosphere like?
• What will be expected of me in this position?
• How does this job and department fit into the organization as a whole?
• What is the strategic vision of the corporation and how do individuals contribute to it?

What questions may I be asked in an interview?

Sample questions the employer may ask:

• You studied in Paris (Tokyo, Berlin, etc), why did you decide to go there? How was your experience the same or different from your expectations?
• Why did you consider applying for this position?
• What have you accomplished at school or during your study abroad experience that you are most proud of?
• How do you think you can contribute to our organization?
• What is one challenge you recently encountered and how did you deal with it?
• Where do you see yourself in five years?