Quick tip: CVs

Don’t assume your CV (curriculum vitae) is being read just because you submitted it to letter of recommendation writers, admissions committees or professional recruiters. There are several pitfalls that can turn a reader off, so here are some quick tips to get your foot in the door:

1. Ensure the formatting is simple. This is one of the biggest mistakes I see: No need for multiple font changes, etc. Half the battle is readability.
2. Ensure the CV is streamlined. (This is where I help the most.)
3. Ensure you briefly describe any activity that will not be familiar to the reader so you get “full credit.” For example if you won a local award, list how you were selected and out of how many other candidates. This way the reader will understand the weightiness of the honor.

Contact me for help with your CV. Having an excellent CV early is useful – not only for current needs. It also allows you to simply add accomplishments as they come throughout your medical career.

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About Dr. Michelle Finkel

Dr. Michelle Finkel

Dr. Finkel is a graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Medical School. On completing her residency at Harvard, she was asked to
stay on as faculty at Harvard Medical School and spent five years teaching at the world-renowned Massachusetts General Hospital.
She was appointed to the Assistant Residency Director position for the Harvard Affiliated
Emergency Medicine Residency where she reviewed countless applications, personal statements and resumes. Read more

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Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on the White Coat Investor podcast:

Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on the FeminEm podcast: